Denmark is a tourist destination famous for its sustainable approach, history, and architecture. But if you stop to think about it, food is not a highlight, even though Copenhagen was chosen as the best culinary destination of 2023 by World of Mouth. That’s why if you are looking for a real culinary adventure, that will blow your mind, you must try the traditional Danish food in Copenhagen such as smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches), frikadeller (meatballs), and fresh seafood, all reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Denmark.

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What should you try in Copenhagen?

Denmark’s food has influence from farming traditions and Scandinavian heritage between the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. Making the Danish culinary scene defined by simplicity, fresh local ingredients, and a deep respect for the natural environment that can withstand Denmark's long winters. If you want to try traditional dishes, keep in mind these:

Smørrebrød

Smørrebrød is Denmark's most iconic lunch and one of the freshest dishes this side of Europe. It's an open-faced rye bread sandwich topped with a variety of ingredients such as pickled herring, roast beef, eggs, shrimp, and Danish cheeses. It's also often garnished with fresh herbs, onions, and a dollop of mustard or mayonnaise, and thanks to its versatility, there are many versions. 

You can find the best one at Schønnemann restaurant, located at Hauser Pl. 16, because their tradition dates back 150 years. We recommend their version of herring because it is the perfect representation of authentic Danish cuisine. To get to this restaurant you can take the train to København H. central station. Or take the M3 metro line to Kongens Nytorv station, or the bus lines 1A, line 2A, and line 14.

Frikadeller

Frikadeller is the Danish version of deep-fried meatballs, made with minced pork or beef with onions, eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Served with a side of potatoes, red cabbage, lingonberry jam, pickled cucumbers, and a rich sauce. Making a comfort food dish enjoyed at family meals, especially during holidays or special occasions.

You can find this dish everywhere, but if you want to try a good version you have to go to Det Lille Apotek. This is a very good place to find traditional Danish food in Copenhagen located at Købmagergade 52. You can reach it at Kongens Nytorv metro station, using metro line M3.

Flæskesteg

Flæskesteg is a very special dish in Danish cuisine made with pork. It is a roast with crispy skin, seasoned with salt, pepper, and, sometimes, other types of herbs. This dish is usually served with potatoes, red cabbage and gravy, and is a very popular dish at Christmas time and special celebrations. 

You can try an authentic Flæskesteg at Det Lille Apotek, one of the oldest and most traditional restaurants in Copenhagen. This restaurant has been serving this dish since 1720 and is located at Købmagergade 52. You can get there by taking the M3 metro line to Rådhuspladsen station.

Stegt Flæsk

Stegt flæsk is a simple pork dish, highlighting Denmark's love for this type of meat. It is fried pork belly, served with boiled potatoes and a creamy parsley sauce. It is the perfect option for diners who love the crispy texture of bacon because it is served as a main dish. 

You can find it in almost every restaurant in Copenhagen, but we recommend trying it at Restaurant Puk. There you will find a generous portion, following the traditional Danish recipe, in a very comfortable atmosphere. It is located at Vandkunsten 8, and you can get there by taking the M1 or M2 metro line to Kongens Nytorv station.

Æblekage

Æblekage is a traditional dessert made with apples, and it is a cake but its texture is similar to a crumble. This delicious dessert is served especially during the fall, in the middle of apple season, being one of the most emblematic in the city.

If you want to try it on your trip through Copenhagen, we recommend visiting any of the branches of the Lagkagehuset pastry shop, but one of the most emblematic is in Vesterbrogade 12A. You can get there by taking the M1 metro line and leaving at the Vesterport station.

Risalamande

Risalamande is a typical dish of the Christmas season, and it is a creamy pudding, made with rice, milk, chopped almonds, sugar, and whipped cream. Also, a whole almond is hidden in this one and it is said that the person who finds it is blessed with good luck. Furthermore, it is often served with cherry sauce and is a Christmas tradition, but you can find this comforting dessert in Copenhagen restaurants all year round. 

You can find a good version at the Tivoli Food Hall (in the amusement park) at Vesterbrogade 3. Which you can reach by taking the M1 metro line to Vesterport station.

Where to eat the traditional Danish food in Copenhagen?

Top Restaurants in Copenhagen to Visit

If you want to experience the autentic Danish food, you have a lot of options near the best hotels in Copenhagen. Write these places down on your travel itinerary:

● Schønnemann Restaurant 

This is a mandatory stop in Copenhagen, because it has been serving classic Danish dishes since 1877. Although it is famous for its Smørrebrød, so you can't miss its versions with herring and salmon. It is located at Hauser Pl. 16, and you can get there using the M1 or M2 metro line to the Kongens Nytorv station. 

● Amass 

Amass is a very modern Michelin-starred restaurant with a sustainable approach to Danish cuisine. You can find a combination of modern techniques, local ingredients, and recipes rooted in Danish tradition. It is located at Refshalevej 153, and you can get there by taking the Copenhagen metro line M1 to the Christianshavn station. 

● Geranium 

This is a great restaurant if you want to have a fine dining experience on your trip to Copenhagen. Geranium has three Michelin stars, and offers exquisite and creative versions of Denmark's culinary traditions, while maintaining Nordic ingredients. 

It is located on the eighth floor of Parken Stadion, and you can get there by taking the Copenhagen metro line M1 to Fisketorvet station. 

● Café Norden 

This is a modern cafe in the center of the city and is the ideal place to enjoy a more casual experience with Danish classics such as Smørrebrød. It is the preferred option for locals, located at Østergade 61, at the Kongens Nytorv metro station (lines M1 and M2).

Food Markets

Copenhagen also has several food markets where you can find the variety of Danish and international dishes: 

● Torvehallerne 

Located at Frederiksborggade 21 near the Nørreport metro station (lines M1 and M2), Torvehallerne is a food market with more than 60 stalls selling seafood, meats, cheeses, pastries and much more. Here you can taste the traditional Danish food in Copenhagen like Smørrebrød and traditional pastries, making it a good place to start experiencing new flavors on your trip. 

● Street food in Reffen 

This food market is located next to the port and offers a perfect combination of local and international cuisine. If you are looking to try traditional Danish food in Copenhagen, here you can try Flæskesteg, Pølse which are Danish hot dogs, Frikadeller, among others. Is located at Refshalevej 167, near the Christianshavn metro station on the M1 line.

Which are the most popular cafés and bistros in Copenhagen?

Copenhagen has numerous cafes and bistros ideal for enjoying Danish pastries, coffee, tea, and traditional dishes in a calm atmosphere and impressive decorations. 

● Lagkagehuset 

We already mentioned that it is an excellent chain of bakeries where you can try Æblekage (Apple Cake). But the truth is that Lagkagehuset offers a wide variety of pastries such as the famous Danish cinnamon rolls and butter croissants.

● MAD & Kaffe This is a very nice bistro located at Værnedamsvej 14, near the Frederiksberg Station metro station on the M3 line. There you can taste Danish sandwiches and the city's precious coffee culture. Offering a selection of seasonal ingredients that are perfect for an unforgettable experience. We recommend you take a break in your tourist tour to visit this cafe (make a reservation in advance). 

● Brodflov This bistro is a hidden gem in the city, very popular with locals for its artisan bread and Danish pastries. If you want to try the authentic Nordic breakfast, chocolate bread, toast, and other Danish sweets, this place cannot be missed. Remember, it is located at Istedgade 16, near the Vesterport Station metro station (line M1).

Culinary tips for tourists

How to differentiate traditional Danish cuisine from its modern version?

First, traditional Danish food in Copenhagen is abundant, unlike the modern version. Also, traditional cuisine is characterized by having simple procedures, while modern cuisine has evolved towards a more experimental culinary scene with techniques from different countries. In addition to adding a focus directed towards sustainability and creativity, which is evident in the use of seasonal ingredients, presenting the same typical Copenhagen dishes with an innovative vision and impregnated with new flavors.

Try unique beverage pairings to accompany Danish dishes

Another experience that you cannot miss when dining in Copenhagen is combining traditional Danish dishes with local drinks. But remember, here you don't just drink beer or coffee. There are drinks like Snaps or Akvavit, which is a Danish vodka, which usually accompanies Smørrebrød or fried pork belly. But if you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, try saft (a sweet fruit juice), which complements almost all traditional Danish foods, especially during the summer.

FAQs

What is Copenhagen famous for food?

The best-known food in Copenhagen is Danish pastries made with puff pastry and filled with custard, fruit or nuts. Being very popular among locals and tourists because they can enjoy it with a delicious coffee or tea in the morning.

What is the famous Copenhagen sandwich?

The famous sandwich is the Smørrebrød, a traditional open sandwich made with rye bread and a wide variety of toppings such as herring, salmon, roast beef, among others.

What is Copenhagen style breakfast?

This is a styleof breakfast from traditional Danish food in Copenhagen that includes bread topped with cheese, cold cuts, jam, along with a cup of coffee or tea, and yogurt with fruit.

What is the main meal of the day in Denmark?

The main meal in Denmark is dinner, which consists of hearty dishes such as Frikadeller, Flæskesteg or Stegt Flæsk, often accompanied by potatoes, vegetables and sauce.