A historical journey in the heart of Budapest – the secrets of the Callas Café palace building
In Budapest, we can find countless impressive buildings, most of which have their own stories stretching back centuries. Every building on Andrássy Avenue could tell many tales. If you are also captivated by historic architecture, join us as we reveal the secrets of the Callas Café & Restaurant building.
Andrássy Avenue hides many treasures
Located in the heart of Budapest, on the imposing Andrássy Avenue, the Hungarian State Opera House is a masterpiece by Miklós Ybl and has been a prominent venue for domestic and international opera performances since its opening in 1884. Its richly decorated Neo-Renaissance façade and magnificent interior spaces are impressive in themselves, and the world-class performances further reinforce the building's status in international cultural life.The Callas Café & Restaurant is located right next to the Opera House. However, this is not just a café and restaurant: the place itself is a historic palace that has welcomed many famous people over the centuries. We are proud that its elegance and patina captivate every visitor. In this post, readers can take part in a historical journey as we guide them to the heart of Budapest.
The historical background of the Callas Café building
The building was designed by Vilmos Freund, a master of the Neo-Renaissance style, and was built in 1881. Freund's name is still well known today in connection with the palaces on Andrássy Avenue: he designed numerous elegant apartment buildings and public buildings in the city. The building originally started out as a ground floor café and bank, evoking the atmosphere of the turn of the century.The Callas Café palace has served several functions throughout its history:
- In 1919, the café was renamed "Windsor."
- In the 1920s, the building served as the office of the British-Hungarian Bank.
- Later, shops and social functions took turns, until 2006, when the current Callas Café & Restaurant opened, bringing back the palace's original elegance.
Presumably, many renowned actors, opera singers, and cultural figures have visited the building over the past centuries, thanks to its immediate proximity to the Opera House. Although the current restaurant has been in operation since 2006, the atmosphere and historical past of the place continue to captivate every guest.
Architectural features
The interior was designed in Art Deco style by London-based David Collins Studio. The mosaic pattern of the floor, the gold decorations, the geometric shapes, and the chandeliers all evoke the elegance of the turn of the century. The piano in the center of the restaurant regularly plays live music, which in itself enhances the atmosphere, but the restaurant's ambiance is made even more special by live violin music and performances by guest singers from time to time.Callas Café as a journey through time
Visitors can feel the historical value and elegance of the palace as soon as they enter. Callas Café & Restaurant is a meeting place for art, culture, and gastronomy, where, in addition to delicious food, coffee, and desserts, the building tells the story of past centuries.If you would like to immerse yourself in this historical journey and see this building in the heart of Budapest with your own eyes, it is worth visiting the restaurant in person, as it is open to all guests.
During your visit, you can not only immerse yourself in the history of the building, but also enjoy gastronomic delights: the seasonal specialties and desserts on the menu are as fabulous as the building itself. If you would like everything to be ready upon your arrival, you can also book a table in advance – this way, you are guaranteed to enjoy the restaurant experience in the most comfortable environment.
Book a table online now:
When to visit Callas Café?
If you are on your way to an opera performance, you can stop by before or after the show, as the restaurant is open every day until midnight.
A visit to Callas is not just about coffee, but a historical journey in the heart of Budapest, where history and gastronomy meet in an elegant setting. The play of lights, the cozy terrace, the warm drinks, and the subdued live music offer a unique experience that connects the past with the present. We welcome all guests with open arms!
