Copenhagen isn’t a huge city, but the restaurant scene is. One might think of Smørrebrød when thinking about Copenhagen, and that’s certainly something you should try, but there is much much more. Ok, before you start googling, Smørrebrød is a Danish specialty. It’s basically an open sandwich stacked with anything you can imagine. Roastbeef, herring, fried fish, roasted vegetables, you name it. At some places you can get quite simple Smørrebrøds, at other’s it’s almost a small Michelin star worthy menu served on a slice of bread.
If you’re undecided yet on which restaurant to go to, you should visit Tovernehalle, the famous food hall and market. There, you’ll find plenty of small stands selling anything and everything and also a couple of cute places to have drinks at. If not, Kødbyen is a cool area close to the main train station full of restaurants.
1. Selma Copenhagen
A cosy, nicely decorated and not too big restaurant with super lovely service. They sell…Smørrebrød. The fun kind. My favourite one here was with scallops, kohlrabi, lovage and horseradish. Everything was beautifully arranged on the bread and the scallop was nicely seared on the outside and tender inside. Another fav was a bright pink Smørrebrød with dill herring, crème fraîche, beetroot and buckwheat.
2. Atelier September
This rustic, very light place with some art deco details is perfect for breakfast and lunch. A long communal table, wooden chairs and clay vases make this spot cosy, but in a very laid back way. I enjoyed a porridge with Tonka bean, a super delicious homemade apple compote, basil and sunflower seeds. So perfect.
3. Restaurant Geist
A bit more pricey and a bit more elaborated, Geist sells the most amazing and creative dishes along with offering a large number of fun wines. Service was a bit stressed when we were there, but during Corona times I’m not judging anyone. We enjoyed some amazing slices of air dried duck bread with red grapes; lobster tartare with hibiscus powder and yuzu; zucchini ribbons with pistachio cream and curry powder and a favourite of mine: grilled hamachi with gooseberries. I could go on and on, but go and see (try) for yourself.
4. Juno the Bakery
Every city trip needs a good bakery. You should try the cardamom buns at Juno, their almonds croissant looked very tempting, too!
5. Hija de Sanchez
You might know this place from the Chef’s Table. Hija de Sanchez is a Mexican restaurant in Kødbyen, opened by Rosio Sanchez. She was the head pastry chef at Michelin-star restaurant Noma and some years ago opened her own place that sells the best tacos in Europe. It’s a small place with some outside seating, super chill with aguas frescas that I would’ve liked to order at least 10 of. Try their tepache and also their Mexican beers, starters, desserts. Everything is delish.
