Budapest Time Out Market: A Culinary and Cultural Hub Begins To Take Shape

Budapest’s culinary landscape is poised for a transformative addition as the globally renowned Time Out Market prepares to open in the second half of 2025. Housed within the historic Corvin Palace at Blaha Lujza Square, this ambitious project aims to showcase Hungary’s diverse gastronomy while fostering community through food, culture, and affordability.

A Global Brand with Local Flavor

The Time Out Market concept, already successful in cities like Lisbon, New York, and Dubai, curates a city’s best culinary and cultural offerings under one roof. Budapest’s iteration will emphasize local talent, blending Michelin-starred chefs, street-food vendors, and regional Hungarian specialties. As Balogh Olivér, co-owner of Corvin Palace, notes: “This is about bringing together the entire country’s flavors—whether it’s a fine-dining dish or a humble street-food bite, everyone will find something here.”

Inside the Corvin Palace Transformation

The neoclassical Corvin Palace, a landmark department store dating to 1926, has undergone extensive renovation to host the market. Spanning 2,500 sqm indoors and 775 sqm on a rooftop terrace, the space will feature:

• 14 kitchens offering everything from traditional Hungarian cuisine to Asian fusion.
• Three regional eateries highlighting dishes from outside Budapest, ensuring nationwide representation.
• Four bars serving Hungarian wines, craft beers, and cocktails by local mixologists.
• An event space for live music, cultural performances, and community gatherings.

Accessibility and Affordability

A key focus of the Budapest market is accessibility. Unlike tourist-centric food halls, Time Out Market Budapest pledges “local-friendly” pricing, ensuring residents can regularly enjoy its offerings. “This isn’t just for visitors—it’s a place where Budapest’s own food culture thrives,” emphasizes Olivér. The market’s communal seating for 1,000 encourages social dining, ideal for groups with diverse tastes.

Celebrating Hungarian Culture

Beyond food, the market will spotlight Hungary’s cultural heritage:

• A dedicated wine bar will showcase Hungarian vintages, from Tokaji to Villány reds.
• Local artists and performers will animate the event space, with plans for festivals, cooking demos, and live music.
• The venue’s restored architectural details, including century-old reliefs and stained glass, will provide a historic backdrop.

Bridging Past and Future

The Corvin Palace’s revival symbolizes Budapest’s blend of tradition and modernity. Once a bustling department store, the building will soon house a hotel (opening in 2026) alongside the market, cementing its status as a multifunctional hub. For locals, the market’s inclusion of regional vendors—such as a Debrecen sausage maker or a Balaton fish stew specialist—offers a taste of Hungary without leaving the capital.

Anticipated Impact

Industry experts predict the market will elevate Budapest’s profile as a culinary destination while supporting local businesses. With its mix of high-quality fare and cultural programming, Time Out Market Budapest aims to rival iconic spots like Lisbon’s Mercado da Ribeira. As Sandy Hayek, CEO of Time Out Market, states: “Budapest’s food scene mirrors the city itself—vibrant, diverse, and deeply rooted in tradition. We’re excited to amplify that energy.”

As construction progresses, anticipation builds for a space where locals and tourists alike can savor Hungary’s best bites, toast with local wines, and experience the city’s creative pulse—all under one historic roof.

Image source: Corvin Palace