Great Britain: John Bull Sport Pub

Jolly good times await thirsty blokes and birds at this cozy British bar sited just steps away from the Chain Bridge. Along with ongoing broadcasts of UK-based matches like cricket, tennis, and (of course) “footy”, the old-fashioned wooden bar features fine ale, cider, Scotch whisky, and many other tempting tipples, along with a full menu of delicious food served until late at night.

Where: 1052 Budapest, Apáczai Csere János u. 17.

Africa: African Sensation

Discover elephants, giraffes, and lions (well, tribal-artwork depictions of them) amid this hidden hangout in District VII, where authentic African drinks and cuisine is served with laid-back friendliness. Along with alcoholic beverages, there’s a full selection of malta soft drinks – basically unfermented beer that tastes similar to molasses, popular in Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, and other African nations.

Where: 1077 Budapest, Wesselenyi u. 49.

Asia: Spíler Shanghai

Step into a fantasy of the Orient amid this dashingly designed cocktail lounge that feels like a setting in a kung-fu movie, where enchanting characters from all corners of the globe often meet for a mysterious rendezvous. Beers from China, Thailand, Japan, and other Far Eastern lands are complemented by unique mixed drinks and high-quality pan-Asian delicacies, while DJs play sizzling electronica tracks amid Pest’s lively Gozsdu Udvar party zone.

Where: 1075 Budapest, Király Street 13.

Polynesia: Blue Lagoon Tiki Bar

Set sail for the South Pacific after a short stroll from Kálvin Square to this fun hotspot for tropical drinks in moai-shaped vessels. Enjoy high-quality fruity beverages mixed by bartenders clad in Hawaiian shirts, with early-bird cocktail specials frequently offered for less than 500 forints between 4pm and 7pm on weekdays. Friday-night karaoke parties become more fun with every flaming B52.

Where: 1092 Budapest, Erkel u. 14/A.

Mexico: Iguana

Go south of the border in Eastern Europe at this longtime landmark for delicious Mexican dishes and high-caliber tequila to match. This cool cantina always keeps cold Mexican beers in stock – including Dos Equis, Tecate, Negra Modela, and Corona – while authentic specialties on the menu include fajitas, tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. This is the site of Budapest’s annual Cinco de Mayo Street Party, featuring live mariachis and frosty margaritas.

Where: 1055 Budapest, Zoltán utca 16.

Cuba: La Bodeguita Del Medio

Tucked within a historic artist’s club of central Pest, this huge restaurant, bar, and entertainment venue moves to the island beat of Old Havana. Sip on a spectacular mojito while admiring the homages to Hemingway on the walls, and dine on genuine Cuban treats like ropa vieja and fried malanga, or try a delectable grilled steak or meat skewer. Juggling bartenders and live dancers complete the Caribbean feeling here, especially in the courtyard.

Where: 1074, Budapest, Dob utca 57.

Brazil: Brasil Sport & Cocktail Bar

A vision of Christ the Redeemer atop Rio’s Mount Corcovado welcomes all to this vivacious party place, where caipirinhas and samba music create the conditions for carnival-quality revelry. Frequent sports broadcasts draw big crowds, along with the menu including Brazilian bites and big burgers. Don’t miss the live performances starring lovely dancers wearing huge feathered headdresses and little else.

Where: Budapest 1088, Krúdy u. 11

Ireland: Jack Doyle’s

Guests are greeted with perfectly poured Guinness and plenty of whiskey at this Irish pub bearing a warmly welcoming atmosphere. Carrying on Ireland’s long literary tradition, an English-language book exchange invites patrons to come in and relax while reading; meanwhile, multiple plasma screens present various sports matches. A complete selection of fine food is cooked to order (including the full Irish breakfast), and every Friday night hear Irish folk music played live.

Where: 1052 Budapest, Pilvax köz 1-3.

Published on XpatLoop.com with the permission of We Love Budapest