The 10 Best Restaurants of Copenhagen

Copenhagen, the capital city of Denmark, is famously known for its stunning architecture, gorgeous landscapes, and peaceful waterfront. However, Copenhagen is not only home to aesthetic charm but also houses an exhilarating nightlife scene. The city is well known for its diverse restaurants with a plethora of authentic Danish cuisine, delicious street food, fancy Michelin-starred restaurants, and everything in between. When it comes to dining in Copenhagen, you are spoilt for choice!

Here is a list of ten of the best places to dine in one of the most stylish capital cities in the world.

1. Geist

Geist is a Michelin-Starred restaurant situated in the heart of the city. The restaurant has an atmosphere of warmth, homeliness, and Hygge. The chefs at Geist fuse traditional Scandinavian ingredients with global flavors to create tasty, unique dishes that are skillfully plated. The restaurant also has an impressive wine list, and their sophisticated cocktails are not to be missed.

2. Noma

Noma is one of the most famous fine-dining restaurants globally and has been awarded two Michelin stars. The restaurant has a keen focus on sustainable cooking and serving authentic Nordic cuisine. At Noma, they take local ingredients and turn them into small bites of heaven. Although it comes with a hefty price tag, the experience is genuinely unforgettable.

3. Mother

Mother is an excellent choice for anyone looking for traditional Italian pizza. Mother’s pizza is a crunchy masterpiece, baked to perfection in a beautiful wood-fired oven. Their pizza dough is produced using 100% organic flour, and the toppings are all sourced from local suppliers. Locals love the cozy ambiance, and the trendy cocktail bar is an added plus.

4. 108

108 is another Michelin-starred restaurant that serves both lunch and dinner. The restaurant breathes simplicity, with an uncompromising focus on flavor and seasonality, and it’s situated in the charming Christianshavn area. 108 provides a spectacular dining experience with a modern twist on traditional Danish cuisine.

5. Mirabelle

Mirabelle is excellent for brunch, with a relaxed and cozy atmosphere that feels like home. This restaurant serves delicious home-made pastries, avocado toast, and organic coffee. Mirabelle is a popular spot in Copenhagen, known for their mouth-watering, Instagram-worthy muffins.

6. Grød

Grød is a locals’ favorite and is known for serving wholesome porridge bowls for breakfast and dinner. Porridge may seem like a bland option, but Grød’s creations are anything but. The restaurant serves creamy and heart-healthy combinations of oats, spelt, barley, and other grains, with a wide selection of toppings to choose from.

7. Apollo Bar and Kantine

Apollo Bar and Kantine is a unique restaurant that doubles as an exhibition space. This innovative space serves organic and nourishing food that is sourced from local suppliers. The menu changes frequently, but their salads and sandwiches are always crowd-pleasers.

8. Ruby

Ruby is a sophisticated cocktail bar with an intimate atmosphere. The decor and ambiance transport visitors back to the roaring twenties, with live jazz performances every weekend. Ruby boasts a vast selection of cocktails, including their famous Negroni that is served with a twist.

9. Sankt Peders Bageri

Sankt Peders Bageri has been serving freshly baked pastries to Copenhagen residents for over 30 years. This bakery is known for its cinnamon rolls, which are a staple of Danish breakfast. The bakery also serves authentic Danish Smørrebrød, open-faced sandwich creations made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

10. Holberg no. 19

Holberg No 19 is a classy restaurant in the city center that provides a modern take on classic Danish cuisine. The restaurant has an excellent selection of wines, and their menu features sustainable, seasonal dishes.

In conclusion, Copenhagen’s culinary scene is both diverse and innovative, offering visitors and locals alike an impressive selection of restaurants, cafes, bars, and bakeries. Danish dining is centered around fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, traditional recipes, and a focus on sustainability. Whether you are looking for Michelin-starred cuisine, street food, or home-made pastries, you will find something to satisfy your taste buds in Copenhagen.

The Insider’s Guide to Copenhagen

Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is a charming mix of old-world and modern culture. From the picturesque waterfront to the vibrant neighborhoods, this city has something for everyone.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

While Copenhagen has many well-known tourist spots like Tivoli Gardens and The Little Mermaid statue, there are hidden gems worth exploring. Start with the iconic Freetown Christiania, a self-governing hippie commune that has been around since the 1970s. Stroll through the Nyhavn waterfront area, where colorful historic buildings line the canal. Also, make a visit to Superkilen, a public space with unique installations and urban furniture.

Dining Spots: Savoring Local Cuisine

Copenhagen has a rich food culture and offers a vast variety of delicious dishes. Start with smørrebrød, an open-face sandwich with different toppings, or perhaps try a traditional Danish dish like frikadeller (meatballs) or stegt flæsk (fried pork belly). For a notable experience, book your table at Noma, a world-renowned restaurant that offers a unique culinary experience based on Nordic ingredients. Also, make sure to try a Danish pastry or kransekage (almond ring cake) for dessert.

Cultural Experiences: Immersing in the City’s Traditions

Copenhagen has several exciting cultural experiences to offer. Visit the National Gallery of Denmark, which holds one of the most extensive art collections in the country. Experience the festive Christmas markets, where you can enjoy food and drinks while shopping for traditional Danish crafts. Listen to live jazz music in the vibrant Vesterbro district, or catch a film at one of the city’s independent cinemas.

Local History: Stories from the Past

Copenhagen’s history dates back to the Vikings. One of the fascinating stories is about the fortifying wall that once surrounded the city. The three-kilometer-long The Kastellet wall still stands, with a star-shaped Citadel at the center. Another historical landmark is Rosenborg Castle, where the Danish Crown Jewels are kept. Last but not least, visit the Christianborg Palace, the official seat of the Danish government since 1849.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

To get off the beaten path in Copenhagen, rent a bike and explore the hipster district of Nørrebro or visit the tranquil Frederiksberg Gardens for a picnic. For a unique experience, visit the Arken Museum of Modern Art, which has a superb collection of Danish and international art. Or take a canal tour to see the city from the water and discover some of Copenhagen’s lesser-known spots.

In conclusion, Copenhagen is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers an array of cultural, historical and gastronomic experiences. Whether you seek hidden gems, unique dining spots, cultural experiences, local history or off-the-beaten-path suggestions, there’s something for everyone. Get ready to fall in love with this captivating city!