A Culinary Guide to Copenhagen

Strangas Dessert Boutique.
Strangas Dessert Boutique. © Robin Skjoldborg

If you’re looking for an amazing culinary experience, Copenhagen is the place to be.

With a thriving food scene that offers something for everyone, Copenhagen is sure to please even the most discerning palate.

From Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy cafes, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant European city

For an unforgettable gastronomic experience, be sure to visit Noma, perhaps the Copenhagen’s most famous restaurant, this three-Michelin starred eatery uses fresh local ingredients in inventive dishes.

If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, Rosie McGee’s is the perfect place to warm up.

Whether you’re a Copenhagen foodie or just looking for a great meal out, Copenhagen is definitely worth a visit.

Colorful houses at Nyhavn
Colorful houses at Nyhavn. © Kim Wyon

The Best Restaurants in Copenhagen

Outdoor dining at The Fish Bar in the Meatpacking District (aka. "Koedbyen") in Copenhagen.
Outdoor dining at The Fish Bar in the Meatpacking District (aka. “Koedbyen”) in Copenhagen. © Kim Wyon

H15

If you’re looking for a great meal at an even better price, then you need to check out H15 in Kødbyen – the meat packing district.

This informal cafeteria style restaurant is housed in an old freight hall, and it opened in 2018.

You can enjoy delicious food here at any time of the day – start your day with some granola and rhubarb or enjoy a meal with seasonal vegetables at lunch or dinner.

Plus, the atmosphere is really cozy and inviting with its boho style, so it’s the perfect place to relax and refuel after a long day of sightseeing.

Noma

If you’re a foodie, and you haven’t yet had the pleasure of dining at Noma in Copenhagen, then you are truly missing out.

With a Michelin star, and often voted as the best restaurant in the world, Noma is a true culinary hotspot.

The menu changes three times a year to showcase the best ingredients of the season, so no matter when you visit, there will be something special to tantalize your taste buds.

Autumn highlights game dishes, Winter is all about seafood and the summer brings in the vegetables

But no matter what time of year you visit, be sure to save room for dessert.

If you can afford it (Noma isn’t exactly cheap), then this is definitely the hottest ticket in town – so book your table now before the restaurant fills up and it’s too late!

Selma

If you’re looking for a unique and affordable dining experience in Copenhagen, Selma is the place to go.

This cozy spot has been awarded a Bib Gourmand, and it’s easy to see why.

The food here is exceptional, and the prices are reasonable.

Selma puts a twist on the classic smørrebrød, using toppings such as elderflower herring with crème fraîche.

The menu changes with the seasons and uses fresh local ingredients.

The desserts are creative and a must try.

The Sixteen Twelve

If you’re looking for a great brunch spot in Copenhagen, look no further than The Sixteen Twelve.

This Nørrebro restaurant is known for its delicious, fermented ingredients. These ingredients are used in dishes like the Eggs Benedict with homemade apple cider vinegar and miso hollandaise.

So, if you’re looking for a unique and tasty culinary experience, be sure to check out The Sixteen Twelve!

The Best Bakeries in Copenhagen

danish bakery in Copenhagen
© Richard Clark

Andersen Bakery

If you’re looking for a bakery in Copenhagen that offers up some of the best pastries in the city, Andersen Bakery is definitely worth checking out.

Owned by a former Japanese tourist who fell in love with Danish baking, this bakery offers up treats that not only taste amazing but are also incredibly beautiful.

In fact, Andersen Bakery has won the “Cake of the Year” award in 2022.

Andersen and Maillard

If you’re in the mood for a delicious pastry and coffee, then head over to Andersen and Maillard in Copenhagen.

This bakery is located in the trendy Nørrebro district and is helmed by a talented chef who once worked at Noma – one of the world’s best restaurants and is part of the National baking team.

You can be sure that everything this bakery produces is top-notch.

They believe that you should start your day right with the perfect croissant and a freshly roasted coffee.

Brødflov

This charming bakery is located next to Christianshavn St. metro, and it’s well worth a visit.

They serve up some of the best coffee in town, as well as delicious cinnamon scrolls that will warm your heart and fill your stomach.

The Cinnamon scrolls are warm, soft and gooey.

Best advice: Get a cinnamon scroll to take away or you will be coming back for more.

If you’re looking for a sweet treat while in Copenhagen, be sure to check out Brødflov!

Cake at Conditori La Glace on Stroeget, the shopping street in Copenhagen.
© Robin Skjoldborg

Hart Bageri

If you’re looking for an amazing bakery in Copenhagen, Hart Bageri is the place to go.

With long queues out the front, and pastries and bread that are next level, it’s no wonder this bakery is so popular.

What’s even more impressive is that Richard Hart, the baker behind all these delicious treats, used to work at Noma – one of the best restaurants in the world.

Now he has his own two locations in Frederiksberg and Holmen.

So, if you’re ever in Copenhagen, be sure to stop by Hart Bageri for some truly outstanding baked goods.

Juno the Bakery

If you’re looking for a truly unique bakery experience in Copenhagen, look no than Juno the bakery.

This award-winning bakery is owned by another former chef at Noma, and the baked goods here are created by food science.

That means that every item on the menu is made with precision and care, resulting in some of the most delicious treats imaginable.

The line out the door is a testament to how popular Juno has become, but don’t let that dissuade you – it’s well worth the wait and moves pretty quickly.

Be sure to try the cardamom bun – it’s to die for.

And as Juno is not located in the city center, it’s a true hidden gem perfect to add to the list for the perfect foodies guide to Copenhagen.

Sankt Peders Bageri

If you’re looking for a delicious bakery in Copenhagen, look no further than Sankt Peders Bageri. This historic bakery is located in the Latin quarter and is the oldest bakery in Copenhagen.

The bakery sells everything from buttery kringle to bread to Cinnamon scrolls.

Sankt Peders Bageri is most well-known for its popular cinnamon scrolls, which are affectionately known as onsdagssnegle (Wednesday Snails).

Because they sell 4,000 every Wednesday, be sure to get there early!

The Best Street Food in Copenhagen

Christmas Markets

Christmas market Copenhagen Denmark
© Rolands Varsbergs

Of course, the Christmas markets in Copenhagen are only open during wintertime… But oh boy! When they’re up and running it’s an absolute delight.

The best street food can all be found there – don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to savor both the taste and ambiance of this special time of year!

Some of the best things to eat and drink at the Christmas markets are:

Christmas market in Gurre, North Zealand
© Tine Uffelmann – VisitNordsjælland

Glogg

A steaming mug of Danish mulled wine – some would say, the finest in all of Europe!

Bratwurst

The German sausages offered at the Nyhavn Christmas market are nothing short of remarkable!

Cured Meat

Looking for the perfect cured meat? Look no further! From salami to sausage, ham and beyond, you’ll find all your favorites nearby. Don’t forget to pick up a tasty cheese to go with it – they’re usually sold right next door!

Fudge

If you’ve never had the pleasure of indulging in fudge or consider yourself a fan, then don’t miss out on this once-in-a-year opportunity to sample an abundant selection of flavors and varieties at the Christmas markets. Trust me – it’s pure decadence!

Tivoli Food Hall

Tivoli food hall copenhagen
Courtesy of Travelling Thirties

Tivoli Food Hall is the perfect companion to Tivoli Gardens, offering year-round service and a cozy atmosphere.

During peak hours or when the gardens are open, it can become quite crowded; thus I suggest visiting during lunchtime for optimal relaxation.

With only fifteen stalls in total, you’ll find yourself enveloped in warmth even on cold winter days—a great spot to grab a drink!

Torvehallerne

Perched next to Nørreport Station, Torvehallarne Market showcases a remarkable array of 80+ stalls full of locally produced specialties from tea and coffee to chocolate, sandwiches, pizza – even the traditional Smørrebrød!

No visit to Denmark is complete without trying this savory open sandwich on rye bread.

With an endless variety of toppings available for your Smørrebröd creation, flavor combinations are infinite – simply exquisite!

FAQs: A Foodies Guide to Copenhagen

Two guys with fresh greens at Torvehallerne Copenhagen.
Two guys with fresh greens at Torvehallerne Copenhagen. © Robin Skjoldborg

What is the most popular food in Copenhagen?

The most popular food in Copenhagen is the Smørrebrød, which is a savory open-faced sandwich on rye bread.

Though there are endless possibilities for variations, it is usually topped with ham, cheese, and pickles.

Is Copenhagen a foodie city?

Yes, Copenhagen is a foodie city.

With so many amazing bakeries and restaurants, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

From traditional Danish cuisine to international flavors, there’s something for everyone to love in Copenhagen.

Of course, its home to Noma, the world’s best restaurant.

What is the national dish of Copenhagen?

Stegt flæsk is the national dish of Denmark. It is made up of delicious pieces of fried crispy pork served with boiled potatoes and a parsley sauce.

Where is the best place to stay in Copenhagen?

Avenue hotels is one of the best places to stay in Copenhagen.

This boutique 3-star hotel in Copenhagen is located in a gorgeous 19th century building is nestled in the stylish Nørrebro district, a mere five-minute trek from Forum metro station.

Wrap Up: A culinary guide to Copenhagen

food in Copenhagen restaurant
Courtesy of Travelling Thirties

Copenhagen is a foodie’s paradise, with something to appeal to everyone’s taste buds.

You’ll find traditional Danish cuisine as well as international flavors, and some of the best restaurants in the world.

Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or an elegant dinner, Copenhagen won’t disappoint.

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Fiona Boyle
Fiona is an Australian Travel Blogger at Travelling Thirties. Fiona has volunteered in Thailand, lived in Scotland, jumped off cliffs in New Zealand, slept in treehouses and igloos in Finland and everything in between as she has spent the last ten years exploring the world. I can’t wait to show you the world.