Gerbeaud

The Budapest cafe scene is one of the most famous in the world, and coffee houses came to Budapest, courtesy of the Turks, long before appearing in Vienna and Paris. Of all the many distinguished cafeterias in the capital however, it is Gerbeaud that has earned global recognition. Opened in 1858 by Henrik Kugler, a renowned confectioner, it was his business partner Emil Gerbeaud who ensured that the legacy of the cafe would continue through the 20th Century and beyond. Occupying a sparkling white palace, guests at Gerbeaud's can sip coffee and sample exquisite confectionery under chandeliers in two separate salons, or dine in style at the fin-de-siecle restaurant. For many however indulging in an icecream on the terrace is the ultimate Gerbeaud experience.

First class prices with compulsory 20% tip, ok but expensive deserts, overpriced sandwiches, plentiful of pidgeons and sparrows, and LOUZY service from waitresses (no males but that's ok as I was not looking for one :) with NO smiles and THANK YOU's in any language. There is no coming back for this traveller..