The 130-year-old New York Café, recognized as the world’s most beautiful café, has reached another milestone. From March 1, following a trial period, the iconic establishment on Erzsébet Boulevard will welcome guests with nighttime hours and offerings. From Thursday to Sunday, after midnight, the café aims to provide more people the opportunity to enjoy its legendary ambiance without interruptions.
The extended nighttime hours allow visitors to avoid long waits and savor the café’s charm in a calm, exclusive atmosphere. The trial period, announced during the café’s 130th anniversary celebrations, provided answers to key questions: guests eagerly occupied tables even after midnight. If public feedback continues to be positive, the café will maintain regular nighttime hours from March onward.
A New Atmosphere for Nighttime Visitors
Csaba Szabó, General Manager of the New York Café and a partner at Eventrend Group, shared insights from the trial: nighttime visits often followed evening programs, with the café filling up primarily on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Guests tended to prefer beverages accompanied by small bites over coffee, although desserts also drew interest. Reflecting this, the nighttime menu will focus on drinks and cold dishes.
Music is an essential part of the ambiance. During the trial, lounge and chill-out vibes were tested, but upbeat rhythms proved more popular. As a result, a bar pianist will entertain guests during the nighttime hours, performing lively, enjoyable hits.
Enhancing the Nighttime Experience
The café will feature special nighttime lighting to complement its evening charm. El Asmodáj, the life-sized statue of the torch-bearing demon from the façade, will take up residence indoors, becoming a popular photo companion. Additionally, designated selfie spots will provide ideal locations for capturing unforgettable moments.
A legendary anecdote claims that upon the café’s opening, Hungarian writer Ferenc Molnár wished for it to never close, throwing the keys into the Danube. Now, 130 years later, this dream is being realized through nighttime operations. To commemorate its anniversary, the café also introduced a new mini cake—a creation blending apricot and chocolate flavors—which guests can still enjoy.
An Unparalleled Experience
The New York Café serves 2,500 to 3,000 guests daily, amounting to over 1 million visitors annually—a feat requiring exceptional organization.
Need assistance? We’ll help you book your visit in advance, arrange airport or hotel transfers, and ensure you enjoy a seamless experience at the World’s Most Beautiful Café. Contact us today!
