Norbi Étkezde Budapest

Norbi Étkezde is a tiny self-service eatery in Budapest's Újlipótváros neighborhood, not far from the city center. Every morning, they freshly prepare a host of Hungarian dishes, mostly soups and fried and breaded meats, so that by lunchtime they can feed the crowds with incredible efficiency. The line at midday can stretch outside the building — a sure sign of impending deliciousness.

Start with the flavorful pork bone soup (orja leves), arriving with tender bits of meat attached to the spine. For mains, let Norbert and Andris behind the counter nudge you to what they believe turned out best that day. As an unusually customer-friendly gesture, they offer patrons half-portions too, which are still sizeable and cheaper of course. Most guests oblige.

The only downside here is the lack of space. You'll have to take your food to go, or eat at the elevated tables lining the narrow space while customers behind you wait their turn to order. Things are less cluttered past 1:30 p.m. Note that they're closed on weekends.

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