Over the course of the past 20 years, Copenhagen’s food scene has burst onto the world stage; from hearty traditional fare to innovative New Nordic cuisine, the Danish capital has something for every taste. Here’s where you can find some of Copenhagen’s best culinary experiences.
Best Cheap Eats in Copenhagen
Reffen
Street food market Reffen, found on the shores of Copenhagen’s harbour, offers up a bounty of affordable eats. Around 30 stalls made from shipping containers feature a range of cuisines from around the world, showcasing everything from flavoursome Filipino barbecue to hearty African stews. Note that Reffen is open seasonally; it’s advisable to check the website for opening dates.
Grød
Grød serves up delicious, hearty bowls starting at just 45kr (6€). Breakfast offerings include oat porridge, acai bowls, and chia pudding. For lunch and dinner, you can enjoy tasty savoury options such as risotto, daal, or congee. Various Grød cafes can be found around the city, including stalls at Torvehallerne Market and The Bridge Street Food Kitchen.
DØP
The pølse, or Danish-style hot dog, is a modern classic in Copenhagen, and you can find stands selling them all over the city. To taste one of the best, head to DØP, where you can choose from a range of organic hot dogs, including classic pork, chicken, goat, or tofu.
Best High-End Dining
Mielcke & Hurtigkarl
This highly acclaimed restaurant, managed by MasterChef Denmark judge Jakob Mielcke, remains mysterious in its lack of a Michelin star. Mielcke & Hurtigkarl offers gorgeously presented dishes that intriguingly fuse Nordic and Asian flavours, all impeccably served in a unique setting within Frederiksberg Gardens.
Alchemist
Alchemist was awarded two Michelin stars a mere seven months after its opening in 2019. Chef Rasmus Munk refers to Alchemist’s fare as “holistic cuisine,” combining sensory experiences, art installations, and performers throughout the 50-course meal, which unfolds in a variety of rooms over several hours. If you wish to experience this sought-after destination, plan ahead as reservations are released in three-month blocks and fill up quickly.
Kokkeriet
This Michelin-starred restaurant, Kokkeriet, has innovative programs to enhance both value and culinary exploration. Two days a week, they serve four complimentary dishes, while “Testing Tuesdays” feature experimental dishes that aren’t yet on the menu. On Wednesdays, join them for “Taste the Stars,” enjoying plates from culinary students from various restaurants around Copenhagen.
Best smørrebrød
Restaurant Kronborg
Kronborg is the ultimate destination for traditional Danish smørrebrød – open-faced sandwiches stacked high with diverse toppings. Nestled in the cellar of a historic building dating back to 1796, it features a grand fireplace and inviting ambiance. Here, you’ll find all the local favourites, including smoked salmon, crispy roast pork, roast beef with pickled vegetables, and more.
Aamanns 1921
Chef Adam Aamann has transformed traditional food with his modern approach to smørrebrød, opening his first restaurant and deli in 2006. His Michelin-recommended Aamanns 1921 is a chic establishment located along a serene cobblestone street, just a stone’s throw from the bustling Strøget shopping area. The Aamanns menu showcases creative dishes like hay-baked beets with Danish cheese and juniper-grilled veal brisket with sea buckthorn, available à la carte and in multicourse tasting menus. The restaurant garnered attention in Netflix’s Somebody Feed Phil, receiving accolades from host Phil Rosenthal.
Selma
Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant Selma offers a fresh take on the traditional smørrebrød, incorporating modern twists. The menu is updated seasonally, featuring delectable selections like blackcurrant herring and confit chicken with rhubarb. Additionally, Selma serves a variety of local craft beers from Mikkeller on tap, as well as an enticing selection of house-flavoured akvavit. Their desserts are not to be missed.
Best Vegan and Vegetarian
Baka d’Busk
This plant-based bistro located in the Nørrebro neighbourhood is run by a collective of six young chefs. The menu changes daily, focusing exclusively on vegetarian and vegan food alongside natural wines. Baka d’Busk operates for dinner only, Wednesday through Sunday.
Veve
An offshoot of the Michelin-starred Thai restaurant Kiin Kiin, Veve specializes in vegetarian world cuisine. Set in a historic warehouse by the harbour, the restaurant offers an exclusive six-course tasting menu that features distinctive flavors, including celeriac and truffle, as well as pomegranate and rose. A vegan option is available upon request; advance notice is recommended.
Souls
Souls breaks the vegan food stereotype by serving plant-based comfort fare such as burgers, pizza, and chili, complemented by inventive salads packed with various vegetables. Breakfast, brunch, and a selection of cocktails are also featured at Souls, founded by two Australians aiming to deliver healthy, locally sourced vegan dishes within a casual atmosphere.
Best New Nordic
Kødbyens Fiskebar
Fiskebaren, situated in a former industrial space within Copenhagen’s trendy Meatpacking District, is arguably the best seafood spot in the city. This Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant boasts an extensive raw bar featuring the freshest local shellfish, along with an exceptional seven-course evening tasting menu, while the house-made sea buckthorn juice and outstanding desserts are not to be missed.
Høst
For fantastic New Nordic fare at a reasonable price, Høst may be your ideal destination. With its seasonal tasting menu highlighting local flavours, it’s served in an elegantly designed yet cozy setting. Diners can choose from a three- or five-course menu, or for the complete experience, opt for the “Evening with Høst,” which includes an aperitif, accompanying wines, and coffee.
Amass
Another strong contender for a Michelin star, Amass is the creation of former Noma chef Matt Orlando. Located on Copenhagen Harbour in the swiftly-developing industrial area of Refshaleøen, Amass features its own garden producing 80 varieties of plants, including vegetables, berries, and herbs for its dishes. Committed to sustainability, Amass uses 90-100% organic ingredients and creatively incorporates by-products, such as dried walnut pulp, to reduce waste and create distinct meals.
Best Bakeries
Sankt Peders Bageri
Sankt Peders, the oldest bakery in Copenhagen, was established in 1652. Located in the Latin Quarter, this bakery draws crowds every Wednesday for its famous large, soft cinnamon rolls known as ondagssnegl. Daily offerings include the classic kanelsnegl cinnamon rolls and other delightful pastries, such as custard-filled spandauer, better known as ‘Danishes’.
Hart Bageri
At Hart, everything is baked by hand daily at the bakery’s open kitchen. Their menu features classic Danish pastries and cakes, international favourites, and incredible breads, including a super-seeded rye loaf developed in collaboration with the esteemed restaurant Noma.
Juno the Bakery
The queue out the door speaks volumes: Juno has captured the hearts of local foodies. This tiny bakery, tucked away in a residential neighbourhood, is known for its stunning handmade pastries. Customers rave about the exquisitely layered croissants, Swedish-style cardamom buns, and pistachio-rose swirls.
