Copenhagen is renowned for its diverse food scene, featuring everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to bustling street food stalls. The central markets provide an affordable array of culinary delights in a casual setting, each with its unique vibe and atmosphere.
This guide highlights the top food markets in Copenhagen, offering insights into the city’s distinctive ambiance.
Torvehallerne: Classic Market Hall
With 60 stalls, vibrant Torvehallerne is a favorite among Copenhagen’s food aficionados. Housing two glass halls brimming with prepared foods and exquisite products, it serves as a hub for local delicacies. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes such as smørrebrød from Hallernes, sample craft beer from Mikkeller, or savor meats and cheeses from Omegn & Venner. Additionally, organic chocolates from Summerbird make for an excellent foodie souvenir. During the summer months, taco enthusiasts should not miss the offerings at Hija de Sanchez, recognized as one of Europe’s top street food destinations.
Tivoli Food Hall: Fast Gourmet Food
Situated within the historic Tivoli Gardens, the Tivoli Food Hall opened in 2017 and is accessible year-round. This contemporary glass hall is conveniently located for both park visitors and those exploring the street. Marketed as “fast gourmet,” it offers quality meals at reasonable prices.
Despite its modest size with 16 stalls, the market features an impressive variety, ranging from Icelandic organic dishes to spicy Moroccan fare, as well as classic burgers and burrito bowls. For a refreshing drink, guests can visit Le Petit wine bar or take their meals outside to enjoy views of Tivoli from the terrace.
Nørrebro Station: The Local Favorite
While not technically a full-fledged street food market, this spot is beloved by locals and features a handful of acclaimed street food trucks. Many come here to sample some of the finest and most unique street cuisine Copenhagen has to offer. At Iranian Kuku, enjoy authentic dishes like Ghorme Sabzi, a hearty stew served with rice and flavorful sauces, or opt for the vegetarian twist featuring eggplant.
Nearby, Mexihagen delights visitors with delicious birria tacos and nachos, along with their unique QuesaBirria— a fusion of quesadilla and tacos. If you venture into Nørrebro, a neighborhood dubbed one of the world’s coolest, be sure to explore its must-visit attractions.
The Bridge Street Kitchen: Elevated Street Food
The Bridge, a collaboration between Copenhagen Street Food and the prestigious New Nordic restaurant noma, is located just across the Inner Harbour Bridge from the iconic Nyhavn harbor. Here, you can find elevated street food while you stroll through the selection of stalls offering grilled sausages, ribs, and freshly baked naan from a tandoori oven.
Explore popular local eateries like South-American-influenced Lola Impact and the Burger hotspot Gasoline Grill, celebrated for having one of the world’s best burgers. For a taste of noma’s culinary artistry without the ticket price, try the new burger concept, Popl, located near The Bridge Street Kitchen. This vibrant space features 14 stalls and four bars, frequently hosting pop-ups and guest chefs from around the globe, and is conveniently close to Reffen street food for those looking to sample multiple stalls.
Reffen: Stalls in Shipping Containers
Make the trip to Reffen, located along Copenhagen Harbour, where approximately 50 food and artisan stalls are set up in repurposed shipping containers. The market features beloved local dishes such as crispy roast pork sandwiches and Nordic-style hot dogs, alongside international cuisines. On a warm summer day, grab a delicious Danish hotdog at Nordic Hotdog to enjoy by the water, or seek comfort in a hearty African stew from Baobab in one of the heated seating areas. Visitors can also find local crafts, including handmade soaps and uniquely designed clothing.
Reffen is more than just a market; it serves as a vibrant community space, hosting various events throughout the season such as coffee workshops, karaoke nights, yoga sessions, and programs for children. Moreover, on Thursdays, students benefit from discounts at numerous stalls. When the weather is pleasant, the atmosphere at Reffen becomes truly enchanting, filled with locals and visitors enjoying the picturesque waterfront views with good food and drinks.
The Joker: ‘The Greasy Corner’ in Hornbæk
If you’re eager to discover more of Denmark and have a passion for street food markets, a trip north to Hornbæk, often regarded as the Danish version of the Hamptons, is in order. This charming beach town offers a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for Copenhageners seeking a reprieve from urban life. Situated just 50km (31 miles) from Copenhagen’s center, Hornbæk is accessible by a 45-minute drive or a 1.5-hour train ride, making it a fantastic destination for a summer day.
At Det fedtede køkken, known as The Greasy Corner, located right by the beach, a lively summer vibe resonates from the crowd and the seven food stalls showcasing diverse global cuisines. Optimize your culinary experience with fish and chips from Hornfisken, a popular local choice, tacos from Labambar Tacos, or flavorful Nepalese street food from Everest Food. Consider extending your seaside adventure by staying overnight at the quaint beach hotel, Hornbækhus.
This article was first published on June 21, 2019, and was updated on July 27, 2022.
