Foodie Copenhagen
by Sandi Todorovich, Luxury Travel Advisor
Food and wine have definitely become synonymous with travel in recent years and Copenhagen, Denmark, is no exception to this rule. Besides being a cosmopolitan city known for its industrial–chic design, canals, and colorful cobblestone streets, it is also a gastronomy haven. Having lived in Copenhagen for 3 years, I definitely took advantage of exploring the best cuisine the city has to offer.
There are a myriad of fabulous restaurants on display in Copenhagen, but here are a few of my favorite restaurants in town that are worth checking out when your travels next take you there. I can assure you that with the food quality and plethora of Michelin stars, you will not be disappointed!
Noma – This is the restaurant that blew up the food scene in Scandinavia. The name is a blend of two Danish words that translate to “Nordic Food”. René Redzepi and his innovative team excel at their unique interpretation and presentation of Nordic cuisine. Noma is not a la carte. Rather, you’ll have the choice of 2 different tasting menus with optional wine pairing. Noma has been named Best Restaurant in the World 4 times since 2010 by Restaurant Magazine, and holds two Michelin stars. Reservations are hard to get, and the menu is not inexpensive!
Kiin Kiin – This is the only Michelin-starred Thai restaurant in the world outside Thailand. Kiin Kiin is beautiful. Menus offer modern, personal interpretations of Thai dishes with vibrant flavor combinations. The Tasting Menu starts in the gorgeous lounge with a selection of street food appetizers, and is followed by a 6-course seasonal menu served at your table. The wine pairing is optional, but I highly recommend it. Kiin Kiin absolutely blew me away with their food, décor, and overall presentation.
Restaurant Schønnemann – Denmark is known for its smørrebrød; a traditional open-faced sandwich typically served on dense rye bread, topped with a multitude of items ranging from pickled herring to roast beef with remoulade. You will find this dish at numerous restaurants and cafes throughout the city. There are a few in particular that get rave reviews and my personal favorite is Restaurant Schønnemann. This historic, cellar-like restaurant has been serving herring, beer, and snaps since 1877. Schønnemann is tiny and crowded, with male waiters wearing white shirts and ties, while walking on sand covered floors. If you want to experience the best in Danish smørrebrød, look no further than here. Open only for lunch, reservations are mandatory and taken only by phone.
Søllerød Kro – If you’re willing to travel a bit outside the city center, then please consider an exceptional meal at Søllerød Kro (one Michelin star) in the northern suburbs. Housed in an inn built in 1677, you will feel transported to another time when dining at this restaurant (beautifully set along a country road). Service is impeccable and the food is divine. You have the options to order a la carte, or choose a 4- or 6-course tasting menu.