I could say the writing is on the wall for Trafiq Bar, but then I’d have to go and sit on the naughty step for half an hour and think about my behaviour. Instead we’ll start with a bit of educational history and tell you that this towering building containing a dance club, bar and restaurant in Budapest dates back to 1886 and is one of the growing rank of happening “ruin” enterprises in the city, i.e. formerly abandoned industrial buildings brought back to life in stunning acts of necromancy.
The exterior of the venue now known as Trafiq is undeniably impressive, especially when dramatically lit at night. Inside, the vaulted ceilings and brickwork were ripe for architecture firm 81font to make its mark on, and how they did, in bold moves such as the aforementioned script graphics to more subtle additions like woodblock roller printing. Lighting is as important inside as it is out, with hues of red and blue used to create an intimate atmosphere in the cellar-like spaces.
If you’re looking for somewhere equally stylish but a little more laid back to eat at before your Budapest boogie night, you can’t go far wrong with fellow “ruin” venue Spiler.
