One of Budapest’s most distinctive rooftop bars, The Duchess, located ont he top Matild Palace, is once again preparing an exclusive experience for the evening of 20 August.

During The Higher, The Better event guests can mark Hungary’s national holiday high above the city, against the spectacular backdrop of the Danube, with a specially curated Japanese-inspired menu and a selection of signature cocktails created to complement the occasion.

The 20 August fireworks are one of Budapest’s most spectacular summer events, and The Duchess offers an exceptional vantage point from which to watch the capital illuminate for the celebration.

The rooftop’s intimate atmosphere, its proximity to the Danube and sweeping views across Budapest create a setting where the evening is not only about the fireworks, but also about a carefully curated culinary experience.

Japanese Inspiration for the Festive Menu

The Higher, The Better menu puts contemporary Asian flavours – with a particular focus on Japanese cuisine – centre stage. The evening begins with miso-marinated eggplant, served with cucumber kimchi and crispy flatbread, followed by one of Osaka’s most iconic street-food dishes, takoyaki, or octopus fritters.

The main course features an abundant sushi selection, including nigiri with hamachi and sesame, salmon with smoked ikura aioli, and seabass with shiso.

A California crab roll and bluefin tuna sashimi served with chipotle soy and green papaya salsa complete the selection. For a light and refreshing finale, guests can enjoy Japanese cheesecake with yuzu and peach.

Cocktails Inspired by the Celebration

The special occasion is accompanied by a dedicated selection of signature cocktails, playfully reflecting the spirit of 20 August and the atmosphere of the night.

Look Up combines Belvedere vodka with peach, almond milk, cranberry and jasmine, while Danube Lights, a blend of Hennessy VS, ginger, lavender and yuzu, evokes the atmosphere of the illuminated Danube.

Blazing Crown offers a bold combination of Volcan Reposado tequila, cayenne chilli, raspberry, basil and Aperol.

A contemporary interpretation of Hungarian traditions comes in the form of The State Founder, bringing together Champagne and Disznókő Late Harvest Tokaji with an apple and lemon cordial. Pannon Noir continues the Hungarian inspiration with Unicum Orange Bitter, Pannonhalmi Tricollis, Campari and orange.

For those looking for a non-alcoholic alternative, Silent Fuse offers an equally exciting choice, with non-alcoholic rum, passion fruit, lime and Sichuan pepper creating an exotic and subtly spicy character.

The Higher, The Better is designed for those who wish to experience one of Hungary’s most important national holidays in an exceptional setting, accompanied by elevated gastronomy and Budapest’s iconic panorama.

As night falls, the cityscape unfolding from the rooftop and the fireworks illuminating the sky above the Danube provide a spectacular finale to the experience, while the sophisticated yet vibrant atmosphere of The Duchess offers an entirely new perspective on celebrating 20 August.

More: 
theduchessbudapest.com/hu/sky-high-celebrations-2026

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