Best smørrebrød and other traditional Danish food

A truly Danish food experience, you can get at lunch time in Copenhagen with the renowned smørrebrød (open faced sandwich). But at dinner you should treat yourself to some other Danish classic dishes too. They might claim less internatinal fame, but are loved by locals - for good reason.

Aamanns Deli

Photo: Columbus Leth

Invariably based on rye bread, smørrebrød can have an almost limitless number of different toppings, from herring, to raw beef, seafood and egg.

We also recommend our guides to New Nordic restaurants and top 10 seafood restaurants in Copenhagen.

Photo: NU&DA© VisitCopenhagen

NU&DA

NU&DA is a contemporary Danish brasserie located in the heart of Copenhagen. At NU&DA, meaning "now & then", they aim to elevate the classic Danish dishes while keeping an unbendable respect for tradition.

Photo: PR Photo© Restaurant Schønnemann

Schønnemann

Schønnemann's is one of Copenhagen's oldest eateries. Since 1877, this old-world establishment has invited patrons to feast on delicious smørrebrød, herring and potent shots of chilled schnapps.

Photo: Jonas Buhr

Restaurant Palægade

Restaurant Palægade opened its doors in 2016 with the ambition to create the best lunch restaurant in Copenhagen with a focus on smørrebrød.

Photo: Chris Tonnesen

Restaurant Kronborg

Danish smørrebrød and traditional Christmas food at restaurant Kronborg in the centre of Copenhagen.

Photo: Pr Photo© Mikkeller

Selma

Restaurant Selma is a strong competitor in the race for Copenhagen’s best ‘smørrebrød’.

Photo: Mellanie Gandø© Wonderful Copenhagen

Lumskebugten

Experience a place where historic charm and modern gastronomy meet in the heart of Copenhagen. At Lumskebugten, top-quality ingredients, flavour, and craftsmanship take centre stage.

Photo: Flemming Gernyx© Ravelinen

Ravelinen

The cozy and traditional Danish restaurant, Ravelinen is located in the unique and beautiful location between Christianshavn and Amager. Here you can enjoy the stunning view while having a delicious and authentic Danish meal.

Photo: PR Photo© Aamanns

Aamanns 1921

The moderne gastro temple is ruled by one of Copenhagen’s most renowned kings of smørrebrød, Adam Aamann. Expect some of the best smørrebrød in town - actually the best in 2019 according to the association of Danish food critics - but also gourmet dishes that leave the ryebread out prepared with ingredients you probably know but in flavour combinations you probably don’t.

Fleisch

Combined butcher and restaurant in Copenhagen’s Meatpacking District

Christianshavns Færgecafé with Danish food in Copenhagen

Photo: Christianshavns Færgecafé

Christianshavn's Ferry Café

Classic Danish food and home-made schnapps on the waterfront of Copenhagen’s old, maritime Christianshavn neighbourhood.

Nyhavns Færgekro

Picturesque Nyhavn is situated only a stone's throw from Kongens Nytorv. Nyhavns Færgekro (Ferry Inn) is located in one of the 17th century houses that formerly housed a shipping company. The Inn's

Photo: Jonas Buhr

Restaurant Møntergade

In the intersection where the streets of Gammel Mønt and Møntergade meet, you'll find Restaurant Møntergade. Here the restaurant offers a gastronomic experience, which balances a traditional and modern kitchen.