Denmark is all about the hygge and that is evident in their food. I mean the best restaurant in the world for years was here (Noma). But, it doesn’t have to be expensive to be delicious here.
My favorite food option in Copenhagen has all the options in one place AND it is adjacent to my favorite place in Copenhagen, Tivoli Gardens. Attached to the park, but accessible to the general public on the other side, is Tivoli Food Hall . It is great, with all the food options anyone could possibly want in one place. Its delicious, affordable and great for people who can’t agree on what to eat. Grab food from different places but still eat together.
Now, if you want to eat like the Danish, you must eat smørrebrød. It is an open face sandwich on dark hearty bread that can be filled with almost anything from egg to mayo to fish and roast beef. The Danish eat them anytime in the day but mostly for lunch and they are versatile and delicious.
Hot dogs are also a thing in Denmark. I don’t love hot dogs but they are supposed to be great. But, the pastries are what attracted me. The churros scent fills the streets and there are an array of topping choices. The pastries are all worth a try, you won’t be sorry.
One last food note, as an American, I know 711 stores well and had never seen one in Europe; until Denmark. But, these 711s are SO much nicer. They have a great selection of quick food and drink. Definitely a fun place to grab a bite on the run.
Where to eat:
Restaurant Schønnemann: A classic Danish restaurant famous for its open sandwiches (smørrebrød) and traditional Danish dishes.
Restaurant Fridas: A cozy Danish eatery located in the heart of Copenhagen. This was the first place we ate in Copenhagen. It was down the street from our hotel and we loved it. The restaurant is known for its traditional Danish cuisine, especially renowned for its smørrebrød at lunch and dishes like kalvelever and wienerschnitzel. Make sure to order schapps when you are done eating!
Chim Chim: A Thai restaurant located in the heart of Copenhagen, just steps away from Tivoli. We have found ourselves there more than once on the way in to the park at night. The restaurant offers a wide selection of carefully chosen traditional Thai dishes, providing a taste of Thailand for the whole family.
Reffen Street Food Market: Known as a vibrant and dynamic food market, it offers a wide variety of street food options with an emphasis on quality, creativity, and sustainability. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of international cuisines, often served in a casual, open-air setting that captures the lively spirit of Copenhagen’s culinary scene. It is near the water so dress warm in the colder months.
