Surviving and Thriving: Budapest’s Beloved Krumplis Lángos at Flórián Square Adapts to New Rules

Hey there, fellow travel enthusiasts! If you’ve ever wandered through Budapest with a rumbling stomach and a craving for something authentically Hungarian, chances are you’ve heard whispers about the legendary Krumplis Lángos tucked away in the Flórián Square underpass. This little gem has been a staple for locals and a must-visit for tourists, and recently, it’s been making headlines—not for its mouthwatering lángos (though it totally deserves that too), but for dodging a close call with Budapest’s latest regulations. Let’s dive into what’s been happening, why this spot is so special, and what makes it a can’t-miss stop for anyone exploring the city in 2025!

A Close Call for a Budapest Classic

Picture this: it’s early 2025, and Budapest is buzzing with its usual charm—cobblestone streets, stunning architecture, and that irresistible smell of street food wafting through the air. But on January 1st, the city dropped a bombshell for food lovers: stricter rules for preparing fried foods in underpasses. The goal? To tackle the greasy runoff that’s been clogging up drainage systems not built for handling vats of sizzling oil. For a moment, it looked like some of our favorite underground eateries might fry their last batch, and the internet lit up with worried comments about the fate of Krumplis Lángos.

I’ll admit, when I first heard about this, my heart sank. This isn’t just any lángos joint—it’s a Budapest legend, a place where the dough is laced with potato for that extra fluffy bite, and the toppings are piled high without breaking the bank. Thankfully, there’s good news: Krumplis Lángos isn’t going anywhere. After a citywide review of underpass eateries, they got the green light to keep flipping those golden discs of deliciousness. All it took was a simple upgrade—a new odor extractor—and they’re back in business, proving that sometimes, a little change is all it takes to keep a classic alive.

Why Krumplis Lángos Is a Must-Try

If you’re new to the lángos game, let me paint the picture for you. Lángos is Hungary’s ultimate comfort food: a deep-fried dough that’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and usually topped with goodies like sour cream, cheese, garlic, or even something wild like sausage or tzatziki. Krumplis Lángos takes it up a notch by mixing potato into the dough, giving it a unique texture and flavor that’s earned it a cult following. Tucked away in the Flórián Square underpass in Óbuda, this spot has been serving up affordable, hearty eats since the early 2000s, and it’s not hard to see why people keep coming back.

What sets it apart? For starters, the vibe is pure, unpretentious Budapest. You’ll see everyone here—students grabbing a quick bite, workers on their lunch break, and tourists like us hunting for that authentic taste. The underpass might not scream “Instagram-worthy,” but there’s something magical about standing at one of the little tables, munching on steaming lángos while the city hums around you. And the prices? Let’s just say you can stuff yourself silly for less than you’d spend on a coffee in some parts of the world. A basic lángos might set you back around 400-600 HUF (about $1-2 USD), while the loaded versions—think sour cream, cheese, and chives—top out at under $3. For budget travelers, it’s a dream come true.

The New Rules: What’s Changed?

So, what’s the deal with these new regulations? As of January 1, 2025, Budapest tightened the reins on underpass food prep, especially for anything involving oil or grease. The city’s reasoning is solid—those old drainage systems weren’t designed for modern frying operations, and the result was a messy buildup that nobody wants to see (or smell). Mayor Gergely Karácsony even shared a not-so-appetizing video of the Nyugati Square underpass cleanup to drive the point home. It’s all about keeping the city clean and functional, but it left fans of places like Krumplis Lángos holding their breath.

Each spot faced an individual review, and some weren’t so lucky—closures loomed for those who couldn’t adapt. But Krumplis Lángos? They nailed it. Installing that odor extractor was their golden ticket, ensuring the fryers could keep humming without sending grease down the wrong pipes. It’s a small tweak that means big things for fans—myself included—who can’t imagine a trip to Budapest without a stop here.

What to Expect When You Visit

Planning a visit? Here’s the scoop. Flórián Square is in Budapest’s third district, Óbuda, a historic area with Roman ruins just steps away from the underpass (yep, you can snack on lángos and soak in some ancient history at the same time!). Getting here is a breeze—hop on the M3 metro to Göncz Árpád városközpont, then take the 1/1A tram to Flórián tér. Once you’re there, head down into the underpass, and you’ll spot Krumplis Lángos on your right. Don’t let the hustle and bustle deter you—there’s often a line, but it moves fast, and the friendly staff keep things rolling.

The menu’s a treasure trove of options. Go classic with garlic and sour cream, or get adventurous with fillings like cabbage, sausage, or even a sweet twist if you’re feeling dessert vibes. My personal fave? The sour cream and cheese combo with a sprinkle of chives—it’s rich, tangy, and oh-so-satisfying. Pair it with a cheap tea or soda from their lineup, and you’ve got a meal that’ll keep you full for hours. Pro tip: if you’re here in winter, the warmth of a fresh lángos is pure bliss against the chilly Budapest air.

Why It’s a Tourist Magnet

For international visitors, Krumplis Lángos isn’t just food—it’s an experience. It’s a taste of Hungary’s street food soul, unpolished and real, served up in a spot that’s been locals’ go-to for decades. The underpass setting adds a quirky charm—think of it as Budapest’s version of a hidden gem. Plus, with the city’s tourism booming (over 12 million visitors in 2024 alone!), places like this offer a break from the pricier, tourist-trap spots downtown. You’re not just eating—you’re stepping into a slice of everyday life here.

And let’s talk about history for a second. Óbuda’s roots go deep, back to the Roman days when it was part of Aquincum. The Flórián Square underpass itself sits near the Thermae Maiores ruins, so you can literally munch on lángos while gazing at 2,000-year-old relics. It’s the kind of mashup—ancient meets modern, savory meets affordable—that makes Budapest so unforgettable.

Insider Tips for Your Trip

Timing is Everything: Hit it up early in the day or mid-afternoon to dodge the lunchtime rush. They’re open weekdays from 7 AM to 7 PM and Saturdays from 8 AM to 2 PM (closed Sundays).
Cash is King: While some spots in Budapest are card-friendly, it’s smart to have a few forints handy just in case.
Explore Óbuda: After your lángos fix, stroll around Óbuda’s Fő tér (Main Square) for charming old buildings or check out the Vasarely Museum for some trippy art.
Bring a Friend: These portions are generous—split one if you want to save room for more Budapest eats later!

The Bigger Picture

This whole saga with Krumplis Lángos says a lot about Budapest in 2025. The city is evolving, balancing its rich heritage with the demands of modern life. These new rules are a reminder that even the most beloved traditions have to adapt sometimes—but when they do, they come out stronger. For travelers, it’s a chance to see Budapest at its most resilient, where a little lángos stand can weather the storm and keep dishing out happiness, one fry at a time.

So, next time you’re in Budapest, don’t skip Flórián Square. Krumplis Lángos proves that the best things don’t always come with a fancy storefront—they come with heart, flavor, and a story worth savoring. Drop by, grab a lángos, and let me know what you think—I’m betting you’ll be just as hooked as the rest of us!

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