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Best Local Foods to Try and Top Restaurant Recommendations in Denmark

If you travel to Denmark, don’t just visit the famous attractions—treat your taste buds to the country’s best local dishes. Denmark isn’t only famous for its design and hygge (coziness); it’s also a food lover’s paradise. From traditional Danish meals to street food that blends local ingredients, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some must-try dishes and the top spots to enjoy them.

Traditional Danish Dishes

Smørrebrød

Smørrebrød is an open-faced sandwich, and it’s one of Denmark’s iconic dishes. Typically served on rye bread, it features various toppings like herring, roast beef, shrimp, and pickled vegetables. There’s no exact way to make it, and it’s all about combining ingredients to suit your palate.

Where to try it: Head to “Aamanns 1921” in Copenhagen. This restaurant offers gourmet smørrebrød that elevates this classic dish.

Frikadeller

These are Danish meatballs made from pork or a mix of pork and beef. They’re usually served with boiled potatoes, gravy, and sometimes pickled red cabbage. Frikadeller is a comfort-food staple that’ll fill you up like a warm hug.

Where to try it: “Restaurant Schønnemann” in Copenhagen serves traditional Danish cuisine. It’s a great place to enjoy a cozy meal of frikadeller in an intimate setting.

Stegt Flæsk

Often called Denmark’s national dish, stegt flæsk is crispy pork served with potatoes and parsley sauce. It’s delicious, hearty, and loaded with flavor. Don’t leave Denmark without having a plate of this crispy goodness.

Where to try it: You’ll want to stop by “Krogs Fish Restaurant” in Copenhagen or “Frk. Barners Kælder” for an authentic stegt flæsk experience.

Seafood Delights

Fried Herring

Herring is big in Denmark, especially pickled or fried. The fried version is typically served with dark rye bread and onions. It might sound simple, but it’s bursting with flavor.

Where to try it: “Høst” in Copenhagen and “Restaurant Kronborg” are great choices for seafood lovers craving this traditional dish.

Rødspætte (Plaice)

Rødspætte is a fried plaice fish, beloved in Denmark. It’s often served with remoulade, boiled potatoes, and a lemon wedge. This dish is light yet satisfying.

Where to try it: Try “Den Lille Fede” in the heart of Copenhagen for a beautifully prepared rødspætte.

Danish Street Food

Pølser

Pølser is Denmark’s version of a hotdog. You’ll find these at street vendors everywhere, usually served with crispy onions, pickles, ketchup, and mustard. It’s ideal for a quick and tasty bite while you’re out exploring Copenhagen.

Where to try it: Any street vendor in Denmark will do, but “DØP” (Den Økologiske Pølsemand) is a fan favorite for organic, gourmet pølser right in central Copenhagen.

Æbleskiver

These are little round pancake balls, often served with powdered sugar and jam. They’re a Danish Christmas treat but can be found year-round at street vendors and markets.

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Where to try it: Check out “Tivoli Gardens” in Copenhagen during the holiday season for authentic æbleskiver alongside a festive atmosphere.

Sweet Treats

Wienerbrød (Danish Pastry)

Known globally as the Danish pastry, the wienerbrød is a buttery, flaky pastry, often filled with jam or custard. They’re the perfect accompaniment to coffee and will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Where to try it: “La Glace” is Copenhagen’s oldest confectionery and serves top-notch pastries, including gorgeous wienerbrød.

Flødeboller

Flødeboller is a chocolate-covered marshmallow treat set atop a thin biscuit base. It’s a Danish favorite, and you’ll find it in bakeries and cafés everywhere.

Where to try it: You can find fantastic gourmet versions at “Summerbird,” a Danish chocolatier with locations across the country.

Rødgrød med Fløde

Pronouncing it may be tricky but eating it won’t be! This is a Danish dessert made from red berries like strawberries and raspberries, served with a generous amount of cream. It’s refreshing and delicious on a warm summer day.

Where to try it: “Restaurationen” in Copenhagen is a fine pick to dive into this traditional Danish dessert.

Top Restaurants You Must Visit

Noma (Copenhagen)

You can’t talk about Danish food without mentioning Noma. It’s consistently ranked among the best restaurants in the world and offers a unique take on New Nordic cuisine. If you can, secure a reservation and prepare for a memorable dining experience with dishes that redefine what food can be.

Geranium (Copenhagen)

Geranium is a Michelin three-star restaurant that emphasizes organic, seasonal ingredients. Every bite is designed to make a statement, and it’s perfect for those who want high-end dining in Denmark.

Kødbyens Fiskebar (Copenhagen)

If you want something more laid-back but equally delicious, head to Kødbyens Fiskebar. Located in the trendy Meatpacking District, this seafood restaurant serves fresh, local fish in a casual but cool atmosphere.

Relæ (Copenhagen)

Known for its minimalistic yet innovative New Nordic cuisine using organic ingredients, Relæ is a must-try for those who consider themselves food lovers. It’s simple but leaves a lasting impression.

Schønnemann (Copenhagen)

If traditional fare is more up your alley, Schønnemann is where you go for authentic Danish dishes in a charming, old-world setting. They focus on the classics, such as smørrebrød and frikadeller, and it’s one of Copenhagen’s most loved eateries.

Food Markets to Check Out

Torvehallerne (Copenhagen)

This is Copenhagen’s answer to a high-end food market. Torvehallerne has everything from fresh produce and meat to gourmet items and food stands. It’s perfect if you want to sample different types of Danish food in one place.

Reffen (Copenhagen Street Food)

If you’re more interested in street food, Reffen is the place to be. Located on the industrial Refshaleøen Island, Reffen offers street food from all over the world, but you can still find Danish specialties. It’s casual, fun, and a favorite hangout for both locals and tourists.

Final Tips on Eating in Denmark

When in Denmark, don’t be afraid to try dishes you aren’t familiar with. The country’s culinary scene blends innovation and tradition beautifully. Whether you’re biting into a gourmet smørrebrød or enjoying street food, the quality of ingredients is super high.

If you’re visiting for a short time, be sure to hit the food markets to sample a little of everything from several vendors. And make sure not to skip dessert—the pastries here live up to every bit of their international reputation.

By the end of your trip, you’ll have tasted some of the most delicious food Europe has to offer, showcasing the essence of Denmark’s culinary culture.

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