Press Information
September 2007

Danish Galleries offer food for thought

Food is an art form in itself, a fact which modern galleries and museums acknowledge. Gone are the coke and cake cafés of yesteryear, in their place appearing well designed, attractive cafes and even restaurants. The level of culinary excellence is high and the setting, more often than not, reflects the ambience of the venue.

A prime example of this new trend is the café in Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, where tables are set on a balcony overlooking the glass roofed palm gardens, complete with neo-classical statues and fountains. The French inspired dishes are all home made and are prepared as you wait.

Another stately venue with an exceptional lunch menu lies in the lee of Christian 4th's Rosenborg Slot. With its outdoor terrace and lawns, and classical, but up to date menu, Rosenborg Slot Traktørsted is perfect for a break after visiting the Crown Jewels and so is the Hercules Pavillion (April-October) in neighbouring Kongens Have.

Just over the park, The Danish National Gallery, has had a major facelift, and as part of the new building project completed in 1998, a restaurant has been added. At the rear of the 100 years old building, the restaurant commands a splendid view of Kongens Have. There's also a special lunch room for kids.

In Copenhagen itself, the Museum of Decorative Art continues its theme into its cafe, which is furnished in classic style by Danish designers, Hans J. Wegner and Paul Kjærholm. During the summer months it is also possible to enjoy a light home made meal outdoors in the museum’s peaceful, enclosed yard. Just down the road lies Gallery Asbæk, champions of modern Danish art. Their streamlined restaurant, since receiving 4 chef's hats out of five in the national press for its nouvelle menu, has led to some visitors coming primarily for the food! It’s worth booking in advance.

On Gammel Strand one find Kunstforeningen. A view of the modernist murals of Thorvaldsen's museum, just over the canal provides a background to the lively flea market which takes place every Saturday. A full Danish lunch spread in their basement cafe, or if the weather’s good, out on the pavement is a fine way to start the weekend.

Out of town to the north lies Louisiana Museum of Modern Art. Situated in an old park with outstanding views over the sound to Sweden, Louisiana is well worth a day's excursion. As well as its 10,000 square metres of exhibition space, the grounds give a perfect frame for a comprehensive collection of modern sculpture. And of course there’s a cafe; light and spacious with a constantly changing menu, from autumn 2007 with chef Rasmus Bo Bojesen at the helm. A summer lunch outside on the patio overlooking the sculpture park and the water is something to remember.