Feel the VIBE in Budapest – Entertainment Hotspot Set to Open Soon

Budapest’s vibrant culinary and entertainment scene is about to get even more exciting with the opening of VIBE Budapest on December 13th, 2024. This unique restaurant and entertainment venue promises a one-of-a-kind experience with its stunning panoramic views of the Chain Bridge and Buda Castle. The project draws inspiration from international hotspots like Coya and Zuma, but with added unique elements.

A Place That Has It All

VIBE Budapest aims to provide a truly exceptional experience that combines dining, drinks, and entertainment. The culinary offerings will bring the world’s favorite flavors to Budapest while emphasizing local ingredients and excellent quality. The restaurant concept is based on the international experience of Molnár Márk, with dishes created by Ruff Dávid. Leading the kitchen is Jónás Gábor, who previously worked with the Costes Group.

Running a 150-seat restaurant with such diverse offerings and high quality is no easy task. Therefore, during the opening period, VIBE Budapest will start with a limited menu, gradually expanding it over time.

The drink menu at VIBE Budapest is curated by Marc Alvarez, one of the world’s most successful mixologists. The unique atmosphere is complemented by live music presented by DJs. Afro-tribal house rhythms and a vibrant musical world inspired by Ibiza and Miami set the foundation for the venue’s atmosphere. Franklin Davalos, the artistic director of entertainment programs, highlights their goal of providing guests with truly extraordinary experiences that unfold unexpectedly, often involving audience participation.

When we think of going to a restaurant, we usually want delicious food and good conversation. For a nightlife spot, we choose it for fun experiences and great ambiance. The newly opening VIBE Budapest offers both options simultaneously.

While this combination already exists in the international scene, there aren’t many places in Hungary or Budapest that offer high-quality hospitality and entertainment all in one. This is where VIBE Budapest steps in, bringing a fresh and exciting addition to the city’s culinary and entertainment scene.

VIBE Budapest is not just a place; it’s a lifestyle. It’s a space where every visit is special, with something new and surprising every evening. The uniqueness of VIBE Budapest lies not only in its exceptional food and drinks but in the entire experience that engages all senses, as stated by Gerendai Károly, one of the owners of VIBE Budapest.

Inspiration That Will Bring Vibe to Life

The concept of VIBE Budapest was inspired by iconic international venues like Coya, Zuma, Sushi Samba, Sexy Fish, and Amazonico. These leading entertainment and hospitality destinations worldwide combine excellent gastronomy, visual experiences, and interactive entertainment.

However, the goal was not to simply replicate these places in Budapest but to create something unique while still maintaining world-class standards.

At VIBE Budapest, dining, drinks, and entertainment are not separate elements but integral parts of a holistic experience. This holistic approach sets VIBE Budapest apart from other restaurants. Gerendai Károly adds that “VIBE’s vision goes beyond the traditional role of restaurants and entertainment venues. It is a space that brings together gastronomy, elevated artistic entertainment, and communal experiences. We want every guest to keep coming back because they know there will always be something new waiting for them.”

VIBE Budapest can be described as a “fundining” establishment that creates its own genre. The name “VIBE” was chosen by the owners because it captures the essence of the unique atmosphere they aim to create.

Gastronomy – All Around The World

When designing the menu, the main focus was to bring the best and most beloved dishes from different cuisines around the world to the table. Iconic international dishes are presented in a modern and creative way at VIBE Budapest.

“When developing the gastronomic concept of VIBE Budapest, our goal was to combine the knowledge and experience we gained from our fine dining establishments with the needs of a lively and casual venue. We use the highest quality ingredients to create exciting and visually stunning dishes that can be shared among groups quickly. To achieve this, we have established multiple sections in the show kitchen, where sushi, robata grills, woks, cold dishes, and traditional hot dishes are prepared simultaneously. Operating a 150-seat restaurant with such a diverse menu and high quality is a significant commitment. That’s why we decided to start with a limited menu, about 60% of what we plan to offer, during the opening period. Throughout December, we will continuously test the kitchen operations. However, starting from January, we aim to provide the full menu. It is important to note that VIBE Budapest does not offer a fine dining experience like our other restaurants, but the reputation of the Costes Group and our team guarantees that the food will be of the highest standard compared to other well-known entertainment venues. Our personal goal is for this kitchen to be recognized among the top restaurants in Hungary,” say Ruff Dávid and Jónás Gábor, the leaders of the kitchen.

Raising the Bar

VIBE Budapest boasts a massive and visually stunning bar counter that speaks for itself in terms of drink offerings. However, what truly sets it apart is its signature cocktail menu created by Marc Alvarez, one of the world’s most renowned and successful mixologists. Alvarez is the co-founder of Sips Bar in Barcelona, which has been recognized as Europe’s best bar twice and was awarded the title of the world’s best bar in 2023. With his innovative and artistic approach to cocktails, Alvarez has gained worldwide recognition.

According to Gerendai Károly, they wanted to raise the bar even higher at VIBE Budapest by offering a drink menu that rivals those found in leading bars worldwide.

Alvarez aimed to create a signature drink menu that combines the timeless flavors of classic cocktails with the fresh spirit of experimentation while harmonizing with VIBE Budapest’s culinary concept. The menu includes classic cocktails such as the Porn Star Martini and Negroni, as well as craft cocktails that represent a completely new approach.

One of the most unique elements on the drink menu is the “Diamond VIBE Elixir,” a custom cocktail designed by Marc Alvarez. This drink is exclusively made for one guest per day, selected by the VIBE manager. The Diamond VIBE Elixir is not just a special drink; it is a personalized experience that strengthens the connection between the guest and the venue while sparking curiosity in other guests who want to be part of the unique serving experience.

“Fundining”

Entertainment is an essential part of VIBE Budapest. The venue offers a diverse range of entertaining performances at a high level. Guests will experience a unique audiovisual journey that combines different genres and brings continuous surprises. The distinctive atmosphere is created by live music presented by DJs, which is louder than usual in restaurants. “The foundation of our unique atmosphere lies in afro-tribal house rhythms, which have been developed to a high level in South America, especially Colombia. We combine these rhythms with the vibrant musical world inspired by Ibiza and Miami,” says Kühne Tamás, co-owner of VIBE Budapest.

One of the highlights is that there is no predefined schedule for performances – they unfold unexpectedly, often involving audience participation. Dancers and artists interact with the audience, creating a direct connection and enhancing the sense of community. The visual design and technical setup of the performances are enhanced by state-of-the-art light and sound systems.

VIBE Budapest doesn’t offer mere “performances” during meals; it creates an immersive world where something surprising and visually stunning happens every 30 minutes.

Slowly But Surely

During the soft opening period until the end of the year, VIBE Budapest will operate with a limited menu and open only for dinner, five days a week. However, the plan is to be open every day of the week after the soft opening period, and starting from spring, VIBE Budapest will also serve lunch.

Conclusion

The highly anticipated opening of VIBE Budapest is just around the corner, and reservations will be available from December 3rd. This new establishment promises to bring a fresh and exciting dimension to Budapest’s culinary and entertainment scene, offering guests a truly unforgettable experience.

Image source: VIBE