For all my remote workers out there who work evenings when they are in Europe, this Copenhagen Lunch Guide is for you! I know digital nomads make it look glamorous, but trust me a lot is going on behind the scenes. This summer, during my 3 weeks in Copenhagen I was on a fixed work schedule from 5pm to midnight. This led me to crush it during the day with long bike ride adventures and tons of daytime eats. All the yummy goodness led me to this~ The Copenhagen Lunch Guide!
These days were nonstop from waking up till midnight. They moved at a more invigorating pace than my usual routine back home. The constant stimulation is one of the great joys of travel for me. Curiosity drives me to explore new ways of living, thinking and organizing my days to embrace every experience. Exhaustion takes a backseat to the mystery of the unknown, and to me, this truly feels like living. I must mention, I do not think living like this permanently is sustainable.
Copenhagen has always been a city I’ve wanted to experience like a local. Three weeks gave me just the right amount of time to dive into its rich culture. The vibrant food scene was another major draw, making it a must-visit for any culinary enthusiast. I hope this Copenhagen lunch guide inspires you to hop on a bike, get lost and discover the hidden gems of the city!
Meyers i Tårnet
Let’s start with a Danish classic, Smørrebrød from Meyers i Tårnet! Here you will experience sophisticated dining with stunning views from the Christiansborg Palace’s historic tower. Their menu of only smørrebrøds highlights seasonal local ingredients with a modern twist. Be sure to order the local schnapps to wash it all down. Christiansborg Palace has been part of Danish government with various functions since the 12th century. Dine in the palace’s opulent interiors and enjoy panoramic city views while dining at Meyers i Tårnet. Be sure to make a reservation, arrive early for a security checkpoint and wow your friends!
*Need to know ~ Smørrebrød is a traditional Danish open-faced sandwich that features a slice of buttered rye bread topped with a variety of ingredients. It’s a staple of Danish cuisine, known for its versatility and creativity.
Juno the Bakery
As someone who became a pastry connoisseur in Copenhagen, Juno the Bakery topped my list by far! I know Hart is on every list, but trust me and make your way to Juno in Århusgade. I am not sure how they keep pastries on the shelf but at the rate they move your pastry will likely be fresh out of the oven. It is safe to say the melty, caramel-y, cardamon bun and decadent almond Danish were the best pastries of my life. Warning, be prepared to leave your body on your first bite from Juno the Bakery.
Don’t be deterred by the line as I never waited more than 15 minutes. Århusgade has all the hipster charm while being a hair out of the city center. Enjoy quaint streets, art galleries and boutique shopping. The beauty of Copenhagen is that after your danish you can hop on your bike, burn some calories and prep for your next meal!
Baryl
If you are spending more time in Århusgade, be sure to brunch at Baryl! This neighborhood cafe charmed me with their inventive menu that has something for everyone. Enjoy egg dishes, chia pudding, hearty sandwiches, veg/vegan options, unique drinks and yummy coffee. Each plate was thoughtfully crafted, with big flavors and A+ plating. After reading some of the reviews about long waits and noise, I lucked out dining here on a calm weekday.
For the perfect bike ride after Baryl, head to Nordhavn. This is a rapidly developing area, known for its modern architecture, waterfront views and focus on sustainability. My favorite neighborhoods blend locals and tourists and Nordhavn does just that. I loved Konditaget Lüders, a rooftop playground and fitness space for all offering stunning views of the city and harbor. The public bath of Strandbad Nordhavn and the quirky architecture of this district intrigued me.
TorvehallerneKBH
The Copenhagen lunch guide would not be complete without mentioning TorvehallerneKBH! Located near the central Nørreport Station this market is a blend of traditional and modern culinary excitement. It’s essentially two large glass halls with vendors offering everything from fresh produce to gourmet meals. It felt like this whole city is pulsing around this grand establishment. Enjoy international options like tacos, Asian bowls, deli plates, inventive cocktails, homemade pasta, fresh seafood and even pintxos. It’s worth noting this is a high end market.
TorvehallerneKBH bustles, especially during lunch hours, but there’s a comfortable energy to it. It’s not just a place to shop; it’s a place to experience Copenhagen’s food culture. Whether you’re trying Danish delicacies or something from afar this place will captivate your senses. The seating areas outside are perfect for enjoying your finds, especially on a sunny day. As someone that finds traditional Danish food very creamy and a bit heavy, having diverse options like this lit up my food journey.
Slurp Ramen Joint
Another unforgettable, knees-weak experience hit me at the 21-seat, Tokyo style ‘Slurp Ramen Joint’. Out of the three ramen spots I tried, this one stood out by far as the best. So much so that I had to go back when a friend came to town. A little heads-up, Copenhagen summers often bring rain, and with that comes undeniable cravings for ramen. As you dive into the city’s food scene, you’ll quickly notice Noma and its alumni chefs mentioned everywhere. Noma remains the beating heart of Copenhagen’s culinary culture, influencing not just the city but the world.
Slurp Ramen Joint was founded by Philipp Inreiter, an Austrian chef with roots at Noma. This is part of what drew me in. The veggie ramen here is a revelation, with a deep mushroom and celery broth that has a mysterious edge. I think this is from Chinese five spice or a relative. Every bite was better than the last, with perfectly al dente noodles and fresh vegetables. The minimal seating, quirky logo and playlist full of Shazam-worthy tracks all add to the vibe. Honestly, this is the best ramen I’ve ever had, and yes, I’ve been to Japan. 💀
Reffen
The open-air food market at Reffen, located in Refshaleøen, is an absolute must-visit! Once an industrial shipyard, this neighborhood has transformed into one of Copenhagen’s most eclectic and creative districts. Reffen is a vibrant urban playground for food lovers, offering something for everyone- adults and kids alike. I was amazed by the variety of cuisines, with offerings from at least 20 global regions. You can savor African or Thai curries, wood-fired pizzas, Persian bowls, or Greek kebabs, all served from colorful food trucks and stalls. The atmosphere is both laid-back and lively, with communal seating, live music, stunning waterfront views and plenty of bike parking. Highlights for me were the vegan tempeh bowl from Ibiza Bowls and the local IPA from Reffen Brewery. This is the perfect spot to soak in Copenhagen summer vibes.
If you score a coveted reservation at Alchemist for dinner, you’ll find yourself right across the street from Reffen. Alchemist was recently honored as the 8th best restaurant in the world by 50 Best, a massive achievement! Just down the road in Refshaleøen, La Banchina is another standout spot. In the summer, you can relax on their wooden deck with a glass of natural wine and take a dip in the harbor. The scene here is effortlessly cool, I lost track of how many different accents I heard.
Atze Peng
Last but certainly not least on the Copenhagen lunch guide is Atze Peng, a hidden gem of a craft cocktail bar. This is the perfect spot for happy hour after a long day of exploring. I discovered this place after much searching for the perfect Negroni, just in time on my second-to-last day. The bar is owned by a charismatic Slovenian who pours his heart and soul into every detail, and it shows. After three weeks in a culture that sometimes feels reserved, I was thrilled by our warm conversations and genuine connection. It was one of those ‘this is what I hope to find when I travel’ moments. If you need to warm up your Scandinavian summer, Atze Peng is a must!
Copenhagen’s Charm
Copenhagen’s charm and delicious food just kept coming. This list will set you on the right path, guiding you all over the city. A few honorable mentions include Nihao YAO, a tiny Taiwanese spot. I loved grabbing a quick, spicy tofu bao bun on my bike ride home to the Nørrebro neighborhood, pictured below. If you’re heading to the Meatpacking District, the moules frites at ‘Je t’aime’ French bistro are a must-try. For a midday glass of natural wine, check out the charming Pompette and explore the surrounding vintage shops. And if you’re craving a vegan treat, indulge in homemade chai and a pastry at Kaf.
Now we are hungry and wish we were back in Copenhagen eating, 🫠. A food journey this epic and diverse in our hometown would have taken a ton more distance to cover as well as countless hours in a car with world renowned traffic. I mean it when I say, each stop and errand in Copenhagen felt like 20 minutes or less traveling in an efficient bike lane. Our ultimate dream!
We hope you enjoy this delicious journey across the city, showcasing its dynamic food culture and ‘hygge’ moments waiting around every corner. Hygge is a Danish word that describes a cozy, content mood that comes from comfort and togetherness. What more is there?
Happy food hunting,
Rach
PS ~ Did you know 48 hours is enough time in Oslo? Read all about our step-by-step guide here!
