Café Gerbeaud

Café Gerbeaud, situated at Vörösmarty tér 7 in Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is one of the greatest and most traditional coffeehouses in Europe. Today still, it shines in Gründerzeit style with its stucco, the grand chandeliers, the panelling made of exotic woods and its furniture. In 2009 Café Gerbeaud opened its second confectionery in Tokyo, Japan.

History

The company was started in 1858 by Henrik Kugler, the third child of a confectionery dynasty. He acquired his knowledge and experience mostly during his journeymanship in eleven European capitals including Paris. After that he opened a confectionery at József nádor Square which was soon accounted for as one of the best in Pest. Among the specialities were Chinese and Russian tea specialities as well as his ice creations which were soon named “the best ice in Pest”.

In order to be closer to the city center, Kugler in 1870 moved the store to Vörösmarty tér. The customers of that time most favoured his coffees, liqueurs and candy. But Kugler Pies and Mignons were also well known, because for the first time it was possible to take them home, wrapped on a paper tray. Known guests were, among others, Ferenc Deák and Franz Liszt.