A Foodie’s Guide to Denmark

Scoring high on award-winning restaurants, traditional treats, modern gastronomy, and fusion fare, Denmark is truly a foodie’s paradise, with Copenhagen being a favorite. Read on for a list of the most fabulous gourmet experiences that you must try on your Denmark holiday.

New Nordic Cuisine

Denmark boasts of over 30 Michelin star restaurants, many of which have come together to develop the New Nordic Cuisine, essentially based on fresh and seasonal ingredients. Indulge in the finest gourmet experiences at these highly acclaimed restaurants characterized by a modern spin on locally sourced high-quality produce.

Amongst these, the world-famous Noma, often rated as the best restaurant in the world, is a must visit for its constantly evolving menu. Geranium in Copenhagen, Denmark’s first three Michelin star restaurant offers novel dishes, with their own take on the Nordic cooking trend. For fine dining at a lower price, try one of the Bib Gourmand restaurants such as Hærværk in Aarhus, and Enomania in Copenhagen.

Danish Delights

Once the staple meal of Danish farmers and workers, Denmark’s traditional food has evolved over time, while retaining its authentic flavors. Topping the must-have list of local eats is Smørrebrød or open-faced sandwiches, consisting of rye bread topped with meat, veggies and sauces. This common lunch snack is now Denmark’s traditional dish, served at both local vendors and fine-diners.

Also must try are Wienerbrod or layered Danish pastry, Flæskesteg or roast pork plate, and Frikadeller or Danish meatballs. Selma and Restaurant Schønnemann in Copenhagen serve some of the best Danish delicacies. Other regional specialties include local herring in Zealand and Bornholm, eel recipes in Limfjord, and sausages in South Jutland. Denmark’s popular Christmas markets are also a great place to binge on traditional Danish delicacies.

World Cuisine

Aside from traditional Danish fare, Denmark is home to a number of restaurants owned by immigrants, offering an authentic taste of their food and culture. With options ranging from gourmet pizzas, American burgers, and Mexican specialties, to Middle Eastern and Asian fare, Copenhagen has become a world gastronomic hotspot, with other Danish regions following suit.

Not to be missed: Burgers at Halifax and Gasoline Grill, pizzas at NonSolo and Gorm’s, pork tacos at Barburrito, durum shawarma at Beyti and Konyali, and high quality seafood at Musling Bistro.

Nordic Street Food

Though Denmark is known for its fine dining restaurants, it also has a range of cheap options for eating on a budget. Explore its vibrant street food scene at the Copenhagen Street Food indoor market, where authentic and world flavors are brilliantly fused to create delectable and affordable meals.

Visit the Torvehallerne Market for its fresh fish, fruits, craft beer, cheese, chocolates, exotic spices etc. Pølse or Danish style hot dog is a must try, easily available at pølsevogn or sausage wagons all over Denmark. Add to that food festivals held around the country, that offer both traditional delicacies and modern fusion specialties at great prices.

Organic & Recycled Food

While the demand for organic products has been increasing worldwide, Denmark has become the World’s leading organic nation, having the highest organic share and organic food consumption. Organic eating is now a popular trend, with organic options of most cuisines easily available in Copenhagen. Try organic hot dogs at DØP, organic pizzas at Neighbourhood, ecological steaks at Gourmandiet, and organic meals, coffee and more at BOB, the largest organic restaurant in Denmark.

In addition, the country’s emphasis on recycling and waste food management has led to the conception of surplus food restaurants and diners made out of recycled materials. Rub & Stub in Copenhagen utilizes leftover but completely edible ingredients to prepare delicious meals, while countering the worldwide issue of food wastage.

Top it all with the famous Danish beers Carlsberg and Tuborg and you’re to have a culinary experience of a liftetime!

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