Discovering GoodSpirit Bar in Budapest: A Whisky Lover's Paradise

When I travel, I always try to carve out time for at least one memorable whisky experience. On a recent trip to Budapest, I found exactly that at GoodSpirit Bar—a place that feels less like a bar and more like a whisky lover’s sanctuary.

First Impressions

Stepping into GoodSpirit, I was immediately struck by the atmosphere. Shelves lined from floor to ceiling with bottles glowed under warm lighting, each one holding its own story from a distillery somewhere in the world. There was a buzz in the air, the kind that only happens when people gather to share something they’re genuinely passionate about.

For me, whisky isn’t just about the drink—it’s about the connection, the stories, and the people. GoodSpirit had that energy in abundance.

Guided by Experts

I decided to try a local whisky as I always believe it's important to try the local drams and expllre the flavour profiles. The bartender asked me a few questions about my preferences—did I lean toward smoky and peaty, or smooth and fruity?—and from there, he curated a journey across the different whiskies Hungary had to offer.

What I loved most was how knowledgeable and enthusiastic the staff were. They didn’t just pour whisky; they shared the history, quirks, and craftsmanship behind each dram. I felt like I was not just drinking, but travelling—one sip of the GoodSpirit Experiment Batch 1 felt like I was discovering more of Hungary than just Budapest.

Food That Complements the Whisky

As someone who spends a lot of time thinking about how whisky and food enhance each other, I was delighted to see that GoodSpirit takes pairings seriously. Whilst they do offer food options, they do not pair specific food with whiskies. However each dram is always served with a batch of fresh salted popcorn which really complimented the whiskies I had.

It reminded me of why I love what I do—because when the right whisky meets the right bite, something unforgettable happens.

Why GoodSpirit Stands Out

Budapest is full of great bars, but GoodSpirit is something special. It’s not just the staggering selection (though over 500 bottles is nothing to dismiss). It’s the feeling you get while you’re there—that you’re part of a bigger whisky community, where everyone from newcomers to seasoned enthusiasts can share in the experience.

Walking back through the city streets that night, I realised how inspired I felt. Visiting places like GoodSpirit fuels my passion for hosting whisky tastings and creating pairings of my own. It’s a reminder that whisky isn’t just about drinking—it’s about discovery, storytelling, and connection.

So, if you ever find yourself in Budapest, do yourself a favour: pull up a seat at GoodSpirit Bar, order a flight, and let the evening take you on a journey.

Slàinte!