Ebédmenü

Ebédmenü is a fixed-price lunch option offered by Hungarian restaurants, canteens, and cafés during the daytime. It is designed for a quick and affordable meal and usually consists of a soup (leves) and a main course (főétel). Many menus also include a dessert (desszert) or a drink as part of the set. The concept is common across Hungary and in other Hungarian-speaking areas.

Contents and choices vary by day and venue. Restaurants typically publish daily options on a chalkboard, in a printed daily menu, or on their website. A typical ebédmenü offers two or three main dishes to choose from, with a soup as the starter; vegetarian and other dietary options are often available.

Hours and price: Ebédmenü is usually available during lunch hours, roughly from late morning to early afternoon, and is priced lower than the à la carte menu to attract workers, students, and visitors seeking a quick meal. The price is fixed for the set; additional dishes or beverages may incur extra charges.

Terminology and usage: The term ebédmenü is standard in Hungary; some venues use “menü” or “napi menü” to indicate the daily special. It is distinct from the regular à la carte menu and is commonly seen in urban restaurants, offices, canteens, and student cafeterias.