The Ultimate Guide to the Best Restaurants in Copenhagen

The Copenhagen food scene is known as one of the most exciting in the world. The prominence of the Danish capital is largely thanks to the diffusion effect of the New Nordic cuisine movement and Noma, chef René Redzepi’s three Michelin star restaurant voted best restaurant in the world four times (2010, 2011, 2012, 2014s).

Though it’s a small city, Copenhagen has no shortage of fantastic places to eat, at a wide range of price points, from charming local eateries to high luxury (there’s no shortage of Michelin-starred restaurants in this city, if that’s your thing).

While the type of food and price may vary, one thing Copenhagen does not compromise on is quality. Fresh ingredients and seasonal produce are incorporated into every level of Danish dining, from diners to white-glove service. So what are the best restaurants in Copenhagen? Well, we could be here all day listing them for you.

Here are the best places to eat and drink in Copenhagen:

Fine Dining Restaurants	Casual Dining Restaurants	Traditional Danish Restaurants	Copenhagen Cafes	Copenhagen Bakeries

Fine Dining Restaurants	Casual Dining Restaurants
Traditional Danish Restaurants	Copenhagen Cafes
Copenhagen Bakeries

Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Copenhagen

Noma

Known as ground zero of the New Nordic movement and the restaurant scene in Copenhagen, Noma continues to impress with its intentional evolution. They are shifting in 2024 from being a fine dining restaurant to being an e-commerce platform and test kitchen, called Noma Projects.

Founded by René Redzepi and Claus Meyer (celebrity chef and founder of, among others, Meyer’s Bageri) in 2003, Noma closed in 2016 and reopened in 2018 in its new Refshalevej 96 location. It also transitioned to burgers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
 

Noma specializes in local, seasonal dishes made with the freshest Danish produce, with an eye to the unexpected, using the most innovative and thrilling techniques. Their world-class dishes are works of art as much as they are meals.

Geranium

If Noma is put on the highest pedestal possible in Denmark’s gastronomic world, Geranium deserves that same spot. Named the best restaurant in the world in 2022, it is also the first Danish restaurant to achieve three Michelin stars (it was awarded three stars in 2016). Opened by chef Rasmus Kofoed in 2007, the restaurant is known for its immaculate service and interior, as well as New Nordic menu.

Alouette

Housed in what is probably the best restaurant location in Copenhagen, Alouette can be found in a coverted pencil factory on Islands Brygge. The gorgeous, calming interior stands in stark contrast to the graffiti-covered exterior, and that’s all part of the charm. There’s an open kitchen that’s central to the space.

Their menu is an ever-evolving five course tasting menu that relies on the tenants of Nordic food – the menu changes seasonally, they use local produce, etc – but isn’t dogmatic, holding more with a contemporary American style.

Alouette was opened by American chef Nick Curtain in 2018 and has quickly become a favorite on the scene for its assured dishes and unpretentious attitude. 

Goldfinch

If you’re a fan of Wong Kar-wai’s 2000 film “In the Mood for Love,” you’ll immediately connect to Goldfinch’s interior. With deep reds and royal purples, the design is an homage to the Hong Kong film. The setting is one thing, of course, but the food has to be good to keep people coming back; Goldfinch checks that box!

With Hong Kong cuisine that includes both meat and vegetable-focused menu items, the restaurant has set itself apart with flavorful dishes and creative cocktails. Don’t have time for a reservation?

You can eat at the bar and they only take walk-ins, so get there early for the ideal spot to perch for the night. If you have a sweet craving after dinner, head there for their infamous Hong Kong-style French toast; it’s outrageously good!

Kadeau

Kadeau is a beloved institution, with locations in both Copenhagen and the island of Bornholm. Both restaurants offer creative cuisine focused on ingredients from Bornholm. They work closely with farmers, fishermen, and foragers to source the freshest and most interesting produce available.

With two Michelin stars and a reputation for excellence, Kadeau offers a wonderful multi-course menu plus wine pairings.

Photo credit: Marie Louise Munkegaard

ARK

Vegans, rejoice! ARK, which has a green star from the Michelin guide, is the premium dining destination for those who eat vegan, or simply don’t mind if there’s no meat on the menu. If you’re worried that the food won’t be filling, you can put that fear to rest: the meals are as substantial as any other, and the ingredients are fresh, innovative, and beautifully cooked. ARK also serves delicious cocktails.

ARK’s sister restaurant, Bistro Lupa, is a more casual space but, like the fine dining counterpart, their menu takes vegan food to an impressive place. 

Høst

If you only have one night to enjoy a Copenhagen restaurant, Høst should be a strong contender, especially if you’re interested in New Nordic food.

Located in the heart of the city in a lush space, Höst has found a balance between between affordability and high-quality food and service.

They offer a constantly changing three and five course menus (including a vegetarian menu), with or without wine pairings. 

Kong Hans Kælder

The first restaurant in Copenhagen to be awarded a Michelin star in 1983, Kong Hans Kæder now has two Michelin stars.

Serving modern French cuisine under the stunning Gothic arches of the oldest building in Copenhagen, the restaurant has a seasonal menu that includes their beloved cheese trolley and petit four trolley (we’ll take one of each, please!).

Kong Hans Kælder opened in 1976 with the goal of offering luxury food in an unpretentious atmosphere, and that’s what they have done ever since. A little history lesson: Hans Christian Andersen actually lived in this house on Vingårdsstræde and wrote about it in “Only a Minstrel.”

KOAN

Opened by Noma-alum Kristian Baumann in 2023, KOAN quickly received accolades as one of the most interesting and inspiring new restaurants on the Copenhagen scene.

With a menu that seamlessly blends Korean street food, Korean BBQ, and royal court cuisine, KOAN offers a tasting menu as well as a number of drink pairings.

Their most exciting option is the Korean sool pairing, which offers an array of Korean liquors. “Sool” is a composite word, adding “soo” (water) and “bool” (fire) referring to liquor made in Korea. KOAN combines Korean flavors and dishes with Nordic seasonal ingredients, bringing together Baumann’s heritage in a beautiful way.

Iluka

Seafood lovers, get ready for the meal of a lifetime! The restaurant is known for their seafood dishes, including oysters, caviar, langoustine,  sea urchin from the Faroe Islands, and any other seasonal maritime treats.

The menu is a la carte and very straightforward; nothing too precious. Just expertly-crafted dishes, clean flavors, and a love of local seafood from Australian chef Beau Clugston. 

Barr

With dishes inspired by northern Europe, particularly Danish cuisine, Barr is a beloved institution in Copenhagen. Head chef Thorsten Schmidt took over the original Noma waterfront space in 2017 and people have been talking about their frikadeller (Danish meatballs) ever since.

Don’t miss their schnitzel (meat or veggie options!) with a Belgian waffle; it’s outstanding. Barr has an extensive beer menu, and you’ll find the atmosphere as charming and sincere as possible. It’s elevated, but without airs.

Best Copenhagen Mid & Casual Dining Restaurants

Sanchez

Rosio Sanchez opened her famed taqueria back in 2015, after leaving her role as head of pastry at Noma. That taqeruia, a simple stall at the central city market Torvehallerne, has expanded into quite a few taquerias, a cantina in Nordhavn, and a restaurant in Vesterbro.

Sanchez Restaurant serves up Mexican dishes with a focus on authentic spices, indigenous heirloom corn varieties, and chiles. If you just feel like a cocktail, their “Sanchez Margarita,” featuring chile de arbol syrup, is a spicy yet subtle dream; their cocktail list rivals any of the best bars in Copenhagen.

Rufino Osteria

If you’re after traditional Italian food, Rufino Osteria is the place to go. The restaurant opened in 2016 and has become one of the most beloved Italian spots in the city. Their menu includes freshly homemade pasta and other Italian specialities.  While the atmosphere is laid-back, the dishes and service are spectacular.

SURT

When the entire Copenhagen food scene recommends a pizzeria, you’ll want to get a table ASAP. SURT, located in Carlsberg Byen, has the support of almost every major chef in town, and for good reason: the pizzas by chef Giuseppe Oliva are really, really tasty.  The restaurant focuses on pizza but has a small list of other dishes.

Villette

Sister restaurant to Pompette, a popular wine bar with a stellar wine list, and Poulette, a spicy chicken sandwich shop, Villette has its own particular take on the “fresh, seasonal, local” profile.

Helmed by American chef Marissa Lippert, Vilette is situated in a back garden in Nørrebro, in a truly special building – airy, with a large outdoor terrace and an open kitchen – that makes the dining experience even better. With creative cocktails, a great wine list, and a laid-back yet high-end vibe, Villette is destined to be a local favorite.  No reservations necessary; just walk in!

Bæst

Opened in Nørrebro by Noma alum Christian Puglisi (also known for now-closed Relæ and Manfred’s), Bæst is the restaurant that put pizza on the map in Copenhagen. With their sourdough crusts that are baked to perfection, Bæst quickly became the hottest ticket in town.

Its staying power has been in its consistent quality, fantastic cocktails (seriously, you can go just for the drinks if you don’t feel like food), and its tasty Italian menu focused on local ingredients and authentic, uncomplicated dishes.

Expert tip: can’t get a reservation for dinner? Try their weekend brunch instead (yes, you can get pizza at brunch)! 

Kødbyens Fiskebar

Located in a charming industrial building in the meatpacking district in Vesterbro, Kødbyens Fiskebar is known for their unpretentious and delicious seafood dishes. Open since 2009, the restaurant is a favorite in the city for its straightforward take on local and seasonal ingredients.

Slurp Ramen Joint

Fantastic ramen as it’s meant to be enjoyed: handmade noodles, hot and flavorful, prepared and eaten quickly. Slurp is all about honoring ramen as comfort food. There’s a limited but tasty menu: shio, shoyu, and veggie ramen bowls, plus a handful of snacks including kimchi and Korean fried chicken. This is a quick and delicious mean that’s ideal for a casual dinner.

NB: No reservations, walk-in only. Go as close to opening as possible and put your name down to ensure you’ll get a table.

Ranee’s

Ranee’s is an institutuon in the city: known as the best Thai you can get in the Danish capital, the restaurant uses as many fresh ingredients as possible, often having the harder to find items like Banana Flower, imported directly from Thailand.  The signature dishes include Kanom Chin Nam Jaa and the soft shell crab, as well as their must-try fishcakes (seriously, don’t miss out!). 

Love Thai food? Here are the best Thai restaurants in Denmark.

Gasoline Grill

What does it take to make the world’s best burger? As per Gasoline Grill, a potato bun, expertly cooked meat patty, and special “Gasoline” sauce. Okay, so they’re not claiming to be “world’s best,” but they are certainly seen that way in Copenhagen.  While there are many locations these days, the original one is in a (still functional!) petrol station in the city center.  Grab a burger (or veggie burger), crinkle-cut fries, and their famous homemade lemonade for the ideal fast-food-but-elevated type of meal.

Delphine

This Greek and Southern Italian-style eatery from restaurant group Cofoco features delectable plates such as grilled lamb skewers, crudo of cod with pickled chili, and feta salad.  With a playful interior, large central bar, and affordable pricing, Delphine is an easy place to enjoy a solo meal or have a large gathering, from breakfast to lunch to dinner. If you’re not a fan of loud restaurants, you may want to try Delphine on a weekday rather than a weekend, as it gets pretty packed.

Hidden Dim Sum

Nestled in a charming building that was once the home of Motzart’s wife, Constanze, Hidden Dim Sum serves authentic and delicious dim sum. The restaurant space has been a family affair since 2009, when it served an array of East Asian dishes. When the family’s father retired in 2017, the younger generation devoted the menu to dim sum. Fluffy Shanghai buns, gaozi, su mai, wantons, and bao round out a classic menu that will leave you utterly satisfied. 

Et Cetera

This casual spot serves Korean-inspired dishes such as korokke buns, Korean pancakes, and breakfast bap. There is both breakfast and lunch on the menu, so drop by for a casual but expertly-made dish, served up on a simple metal tray.  The eatery is small, with one large communal table in the middle in addition to a few small two-tops.  Top tip: always get the seasonal iced teas!

Barabba

Italian eatery and bar Barabba was an instant hit. This restaurant has a friendly, welcoming vibe, and its menu features top-quality Italian dishes. You can choose authentic Italian flavours from the ‘Traditional’ menu. Alternatively, try the ‘Attitude’ menu for modern twists like their seaweed tiramisu. Unfortunately, they are no longer open til 2am.

Best Traditional Danish Restaurants in Copenhagen

Selma

Selma offers an affordable and unique take on traditional Danish food. Named after the owner’s daughter, Selma is run by a friendly young team, and offers a contemporary twist on the traditional Danish lunch staple of smørrebrød.

The restaurant’s focus on creative toppings, such as elderflower herring with crème fraîche and buckwheat, has won it widespread acclaim, and it was the first smørrebrød joint to be awarded a Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide. The restaurant also offers an excellent selection of craft beers on tap, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.

Restaurant Kronborg

Homemade, comforting, immaculate, and absolutely traditional: that’s Restaurant Kronborg in a nutshell. Everything homemade, right down to the aquavit (also called snaps, infused vodka). If you’re looking for Danish food done right, look no further. Their epic Easter and Christmas menus are must-tries, if you happen to be here at the right time of year.

Aamann’s 1921

Aamann’s 1921 is a gourmet open sandwich restaurant, drawing on both New Nordic and traditional Danish cuisine. The beautifully-designed space brings in Danish design, so you get the full national experience when you’re there. They serve both lunch and dinner; we recommend lunch for a leisurely meal that’s satisfying but won’t leave you sleepy (unless you add aquavit, of course).

Cafe Gammel Torv

Cafe Gammel Torv has two official names; its other one is The House with the Green Tree. It’s the location of a famous Danish novel called “Huset med det grønne træ” about at merchant family that lived in the building. This place serves up old fashioned smørrebrød with all the sides, beers, and aquavit. The interior is wood-panelled and covered with historical pictures of Copenhagen. 

Schønnemann

Serving classic Danish food since 1877, this favourite central haunt for Copenhagen’s locals offers visitors an authentic dining experience in the heart of the city. 

Best Copenhagen Cafes

La Banchina

One of the most unique restaurant spaces you’ll find in the city, La Banchina is part cafe, part wine bar, part sauna, part dock. There are no reservations, so just stop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The entire menu is organic and biodynamic, including the wine. Grab a glass or a bite, then take a dip in the water or just dangle your feet over the dock. Enjoying a glass of wine or organic soda while taking in the sunset, surrounded by chilled-out locals, is one of life’s greatest joys. 

Ø12

This awesome blend of kaffebar and all-day eatery. Their coffee, food, drinks, and interior are all on-point.

As for recommendations from the menu, don’t miss their waffles topped with vanilla cream and berries! Also, be sure to indulge in the delectable avocado smash, the Tartar dish, and their delectable pastries; they’re all worth savoring. Their concept is elegantly simple: a reimagined all-day dining experience in Copenhagen.

Enete, Kasper, and Anders, the dedicated owners, have made it their mission to elevate Copenhagen’s culinary scene with the finest coffee and cuisine. The coffee here is truly exceptional and ranks among the best in Copenhagen. Their commitment to top-tier ingredients and innovative culinary techniques ensures that the food matches the same high standard.

Sixteen Twelve

Arguably one of the most impressive brunch spots in Copenhagen, Sixteen Twelve draws inspiration from Australian cuisine, offering generous portions of smashed avocado and eggs Benedict infused with elements of fermented, probiotic, and gut-healthy ingredients. They also frequently provide freshly made, gluten-free, and vegan baked goods.

The menu boasts both novelty and deliciousness! Why not savor their waffles featuring crispy fried chicken, zesty harissa, creamy yogurt, and refreshing watermelon? Alternatively, you can indulge in their renowned eggs Benedict, which comes with succulent pulled pork and an apple cider-miso hollandaise sauce.

In addition to the usual lattes and filter coffee, Sixteen Twelve elevates the wellness factor by offering shots of apple cider vinegar and nourishing bone broth. For a wholesome meal, consider their “bowls” containing pulled pork, creamy avocado, ripe tomato, fresh spinach, and a perfectly poached egg on top. Alternately, you can’t go wrong with their bacon and cheeseburger accompanied by truffle-infused fries.

Studio X

Craving a touch of elegant, minimalist Scandinavian design to accompany your brunch experience? If so, Studio X Kitchen should be on your list! Studio X serves as a design gallery, showroom, and at times, a design collaborator.

Their kitchen venture, nestled in the heart of Copenhagen, boasts a spacious and open layout. It offers a few intimate tables and a sizable communal table where you can relish a cup of coffee, a fresh roll, or a variety of seasonal dishes. Among their offerings, you’ll find house-made granola paired with skyr and seasonal fruit, as well as their renowned folded eggs, which can be likened to the creamiest scrambled eggs you’ve ever tasted, crowned with a flavorful nduja butter topping.

Atelier September

The ultimate destination for breakfast and brunch in Copenhagen, often touted as one of the city’s finest brunch experiences. Atelier September offers an exquisite combination of a stunning interior, delicious and reliably top-notch cuisine, and a tranquil ambiance, making it a complete package. Be sure not to miss their iconic avocado on rye bread; it’s a timeless favorite for a reason!

Their menu features elevated renditions of classic dishes, ranging from sourdough slices accompanied by Comté cheese and whipped butter to a delightful yoghurt option paired with granola and their renowned zucchini jam.

For those seeking a more indulgent treat, the almond pancake with blueberries, presented with an artful dollop of cream, is a must-try. Their offerings are part of their comprehensive brunch and lunch menu, available throughout the day until the kitchen closes, typically 2 to 2.5 hours before the establishment’s closing time. N.B. These days there is often a line out the front, but it tends to move quickly, and is worth the wait.

Sonny

Sonny has cultivated a devoted following within Copenhagen’s fashion community. This daytime establishment is renowned for its homemade breakfast and lunch dishes, as well as its specialty coffee and tea selections. If you’re in search of the perfect turmeric latte, look no further; Sonny is the sole destination you need. Moreover, their reputation extends to serving one of Copenhagen’s finest matcha lattes.

Additionally, Sonny boasts its own microbakery, adding a unique dimension to its offerings. You’ll also find a diverse selection of health-conscious beverage options, making it a go-to spot for those seeking both culinary excellence and a wellness-focused experience.

Best Copenhagen Bakeries

Juno

Juno is a top-quality Swedish bakery that’s best known for their cardamom buns and semla, but makes everything pretty darn well. Their delicate, seasonal pastries often incorporate fruit. 

Hart Bageri

Baker Richard Hart and Rene Redzepi opened a bakery, and the reception was exactly as you’d imagine: lines out the door! Everything is handmade and, of course, excellent (if a little pricey). The space is small, so you can either grab a quick coffee or take away; it’s not really a place to set up your laptop and spend the morning. 

Lille Bakery

Located in a light-filled, industrial space on Refshaleøen, Lille is an artisanal bakery and cafe serving up up hearty salads and open face sandwiches on fresh bread, as well as a range of fantastic treats. The real stuff? Their doughnuts are outrageous; fluffy berliners filled with things like bay leaf cream. We also recommend their famous sausage rolls.

Meyers

You can’t mention bakeries without Meyers. Started by celebrity chef and restauranteur Claus Meyer in 2010, Meyers Bageri changed the trajectory of bakeries in the city. They were now space that could – and should – serve gourmet-level bread and treats. Meyers has spaces all over, and yet continues to be consistently one of the best bakeries available. They make the best croissant you’ll find in the Danish capital, hands down.

Want more of Copenhagen’s best restaurants?  Check out our must-try food and drink lists from:
        — 2023
        — 2022
        — 2021
        — 2020
        — 2019

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