Architect Samu Pecz was commissioned to draft the design of the new structure, in which he applied the then fashionable Eiffel style, and 1896 saw the opening of the Budapest Market Hall. In 1994, after large-scale reconstruction and modernisation, it acquired its present grandeur, immediately becoming one of Budapest's top tourist attractions. What is it that makes the building so popular and attractive?

During the day it is filled with housewives deciding what they are going to put on the dining table in the evening, and you may well be wondering what ladies in Budapest typically cook for their families. It is this you can learn about during the gastronomical event offered to tourist groups at the Fakanál Restaurant upstairs on the gallery.

Gastronomical Events:

9:00 - 11:00 "Morning Feast"
A glass of schnapps, and then sit down to a Hungarian-style breakfast. Scrambled eggs with bacon, roasted chicken livers, lecsó with sausages, in fact everything that a good eater needs to get the day off to a good start.

11:00 - 12:00 "A Snack in the Hall"
After a mouth-watering bite and a glass of premium Hungarian wine, it will be much easier to decide what to buy from the wonderful selection offered by the stall-owners.

12:00 - 15:00 "Nibbling"
Visitors often ask what housewives in Budapest cook for lunch. The answer to this question can be found at the gastronomical event, which introduces the curious guest to the world of home-made fare. The cold hors d'oeuvres are created with food bought from the stall-owners. The typical Hungarian soup is followed by goulash, pörkölt (a stew-like dish), stuffed dishes and hotpots, vegetables and pastas, and the treat is rounded off with a dessert. And you can eat as much as you like!

15:00 - 17:00 "Wooden Spoon Grand Prix" or Cookery Contest Budapest Style
Anyone who has already experienced Hungarian flavours must surely be interested in learning how they are created. But important factors are what a housewife buys and also at what price. Take an apron, cap and sharp knife, enlist the help of a chef, and you are ready to try your hand at goulash or stuffed paprika. You can also learn how to prepare quark-filled pancakes, which should really be served with a cinnamon cream sauce. The event offers a memorable experience for fun-loving groups who like a challenge. Shopping, cooking, pancake-making and lots of eating and drinking are all part of the event.

20:00 - 02:00 Unique Venues for receprions, parties and dinners
During the day the Market Hall is Budapest's pantry. But after the doors close in the evening, this imposing building becomes a palace of gastronomy. It is one of the best venues in Budapest for informal private functions. Programmes matching the ambience of the Hall perfectly are offered to go with seated or standing receptions.

More information: Central Market Hall
Address: 1093 Budapest, Vámház krt. 1-3.

Opening hours:
Monday 6.00 - 17.00
Tuesday - Friday: 6.00 - 18.00
Saturday: 6.00 - 14.00
Closed on Sundays and official holidays.

Source: piaconline.hu