Introduction
Copenhagen, a city renowned for its design, culture, and captivating charm, holds a secret that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the soul: its extraordinary food scene. Forget what you think you know about Danish pastries; while those sugary delights certainly have their place, the true heart of Danish cuisine lies in its savory dishes, its dedication to fresh, local ingredients, and its unwavering embrace of hygge – that feeling of cozy contentment that permeates every aspect of Danish life. This article is your guide to navigating the delicious labyrinth of Copenhagen’s culinary landscape, ensuring you experience the very best Danish food the city has to offer.
Must-Try Danish Dishes in Copenhagen
The Quintessential Open-Faced Sandwich: Smørrebrød
No culinary exploration of Copenhagen is complete without a deep dive into the world of smørrebrød. This isn’t your average sandwich; it’s an art form, a culinary masterpiece meticulously crafted on a foundation of dense, dark rye bread. Smørrebrød is far more than just lunch; it’s a showcase of Danish ingredients and culinary technique. Imagine a canvas of buttered rye bread adorned with a symphony of flavors and textures.
Traditional toppings include pickled herring (in various forms, from creamy to spicy), succulent roast beef topped with crispy fried onions, delicate hand-peeled shrimp swimming in mayonnaise, and perfectly boiled eggs with vibrant yellow yolks. Each ingredient is carefully chosen and arranged to create a harmonious balance of taste and visual appeal. The rye bread, dense and slightly sour, provides a robust base for the rich toppings. The key to great smørrebrød lies in the quality of the ingredients, the freshness of the rye bread, and the skill of the smørrebrød maker.
For an authentic smørrebrød experience, head to Schønnemann, a legendary restaurant that has been serving these open-faced sandwiches for over a century. Their classic preparations are a testament to tradition, while their more modern takes offer a contemporary twist. Another excellent choice is Restaurant Ida Davidsen, a family-run institution that has been perfecting smørrebrød for generations. Their menu is extensive, offering a seemingly endless array of toppings and combinations. Prepare to be overwhelmed by the choices, but don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations – the staff is always happy to guide you through the smørrebrød landscape. Halles Smørrebrød is another place that offers this danish classic, so you can taste all the different types of ingredients it comes with. A well-prepared smørrebrød is more than just a meal; it’s a taste of Danish history and culture.
The Comforting Embrace of Frikadeller: Danish Meatballs
Forget everything you think you know about meatballs. Danish frikadeller are a different breed altogether. These aren’t the dense, heavily spiced meatballs you might be used to; frikadeller are light, airy, and subtly seasoned, focusing on the natural flavors of the meat. Typically made with a mixture of ground pork and beef (though some variations use veal or fish), frikadeller are bound with breadcrumbs, milk, and eggs, and seasoned with onion, salt, and pepper.
The key to achieving the perfect texture is to not overwork the meat mixture. Gentle handling ensures that the frikadeller remain tender and juicy. They are pan-fried in butter until golden brown and cooked through, resulting in a slightly crispy exterior and a moist, flavorful interior. Frikadeller are often served with boiled potatoes, creamy gravy, pickled red cabbage, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The combination of flavors and textures is incredibly satisfying, making frikadeller a quintessential comfort food.
You can find frikadeller in many traditional Danish restaurants throughout Copenhagen. Many local cafes offer them as a lunchtime special, served with rye bread and pickles. If you want to try making them yourself, visit a local market like Torvehallerne and purchase fresh ground meat from a butcher. Experiment with different spice combinations and find your own perfect frikadeller recipe.
The Crispy Delight of Stegt Flæsk med Persillesovs: Crispy Pork with Parsley Sauce
Stegt flæsk med persillesovs – crispy pork belly with parsley sauce – is arguably the national dish of Denmark. This dish is not for the faint of heart, but for those who appreciate indulgence, it’s an absolute must-try. Thin slices of pork belly are fried to crispy perfection, rendering the fat and creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The key is to achieve the perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness. The pork should be deeply golden brown and shatteringly crispy on the outside, while remaining juicy and flavorful on the inside.
The accompanying parsley sauce is a simple yet essential element of the dish. It’s made with a roux of butter and flour, thinned with milk or cream, and generously studded with fresh, finely chopped parsley. The creamy, herbaceous sauce provides a welcome contrast to the richness of the pork. Stegt flæsk med persillesovs is traditionally served with boiled potatoes, which provide a starchy base to soak up the sauce and balance the richness of the pork.
Many restaurants in Copenhagen specialize in stegt flæsk, offering all-you-can-eat versions of this beloved dish. Hija de Sanchez (though known for tacos) sometimes does limited runs of stegt flæsk as well, giving the dish a modern twist. Be prepared for a hearty meal – this dish is not for the calorie-conscious!
The Savoury and Sweet Perfection of Tartlets (Tærter)
Tartlets, known as tærter in Danish, are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed both savory and sweet. The savoury tartlets are often filled with chicken, mushrooms, or asparagus in a creamy sauce, while the sweet tartlets are filled with fruit, chocolate, or custard.
A Christmas Classic: Risalamande
Risalamande, also known as rice almond dessert, is a traditional Danish rice pudding that has been a staple during Christmas celebrations. The rice pudding is made with cooked rice, almonds, vanilla, whipped cream and cherry sauce. A whole almond is hidden and whoever finds the almond in their dessert receives a small gift. This tradition is fun and adds excitement to holiday celebrations in Denmark.
Where to Eat: Restaurant Recommendations
Traditional Danish Restaurants: A Taste of History
For a truly authentic Danish dining experience, seek out the traditional restaurants that have been serving classic dishes for generations. These establishments often have a cozy, old-world atmosphere and are staffed by knowledgeable waiters who are passionate about Danish cuisine.
As mentioned before, Schønnemann is a must-visit for smørrebrød. Their extensive menu and historic setting make it a truly memorable experience. Restaurant Kanalen is another excellent choice, offering a refined take on traditional Danish dishes with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their menu changes regularly to reflect the best of what’s available.
These restaurants are not just places to eat; they are portals to Danish history and culture. Dining in these establishments is like stepping back in time, experiencing the flavors and traditions that have shaped Danish cuisine for centuries.
Modern Danish Cuisine/New Nordic: A Culinary Revolution
The New Nordic movement has had a profound impact on Danish cuisine, emphasizing local, seasonal ingredients and innovative cooking techniques. This culinary revolution has transformed Copenhagen into a global food destination, attracting chefs and food lovers from around the world.
Noma, the restaurant that helped launch the New Nordic movement, may be closed, but its influence continues to be felt throughout Copenhagen. Many chefs who trained at Noma have gone on to open their own restaurants, showcasing their innovative approaches to Danish cuisine.
Restaurant Amass is a prime example, focusing on sustainable practices and using ingredients grown in their own garden. Their tasting menu is a journey through the seasons, showcasing the best of what Denmark has to offer. Geranium, another acclaimed restaurant, offers a sophisticated and artistic take on New Nordic cuisine. Their tasting menu is a carefully choreographed experience, designed to engage all the senses.
These restaurants are pushing the boundaries of Danish cuisine, creating innovative dishes that are both delicious and thought-provoking. They are not just serving food; they are telling stories about Denmark’s history, culture, and natural environment.
Markets and Food Halls: A Feast for the Senses
For a more casual and affordable dining experience, explore Copenhagen’s vibrant markets and food halls. Torvehallerne is a must-visit, offering a wide array of food stalls, from fresh produce and seafood to gourmet cheeses and pastries. You can sample local specialties, grab a quick lunch, or stock up on ingredients for your own culinary creations.
Reffen, located on Refshaleøen (a former industrial island), is another popular food market, offering a diverse range of street food from around the world. You can find everything from Korean barbecue and Argentinian empanadas to Danish flæskesteg sandwiches and craft beer.
These markets are not just places to eat; they are vibrant social hubs where locals and tourists come together to enjoy good food and good company. They offer a taste of Copenhagen’s diverse culinary scene and a chance to experience the city’s lively atmosphere.
Bakeries and Pastry Shops: Indulge Your Sweet Tooth
No trip to Copenhagen is complete without indulging in the city’s famous pastries. From the iconic kanelsnegle (cinnamon rolls) to the delicate wienerbrød (Danish pastries), Copenhagen’s bakeries offer a tempting array of sweet treats.
Sankt Peders Bageri is the oldest bakery in Copenhagen and a must-visit for onsdagssnegle (Wednesday cinnamon rolls). Their rolls are legendary, and the bakery is always packed with locals eager to get their fix. Hart Bageri, founded by a former Noma chef, offers a more modern take on Danish pastries, using high-quality ingredients and innovative techniques. Their croissants and sourdough bread are particularly noteworthy. Juno the Bakery, from same owner, is another great place to enjoy fresh baked bread and pastries.
These bakeries are not just places to buy pastries; they are institutions that have been serving the community for generations. Their pastries are a symbol of Danish culture and a reminder of the simple pleasures in life.
Tips for Experiencing Danish Food in Copenhagen
To fully immerse yourself in the Danish food scene, keep these tips in mind:
- Embrace Hygge: Hygge is more than just a word; it’s a way of life. Embrace the cozy atmosphere of Danish restaurants and cafes. Take your time, savor your food, and enjoy the company of your fellow diners.
- Try Local Beers and Aquavit: Danish food pairs perfectly with local beers and aquavit. Ask your waiter for recommendations.
- Be Open to New Flavors: Danish cuisine may be different from what you’re used to. Be open to trying new things and expanding your culinary horizons.
- Consider a Food Tour: A food tour is a great way to sample a variety of dishes and learn about Danish culinary history.
- Make Reservations: Book restaurants in advance, especially during peak season.
- Shop for Local Produce at Markets: Visit local markets and purchase fresh ingredients to cook your own Danish meals.
Conclusion
Copenhagen’s food scene is a testament to the city’s creativity, innovation, and commitment to quality. From traditional smørrebrød to innovative New Nordic cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, come to Copenhagen, embark on a culinary journey, and discover the delicious secrets of Danish food. You won’t be disappointed. The flavors, the traditions, and the hygge will stay with you long after you’ve left this captivating city. Don’t just visit Copenhagen; taste it.
