What We Ate in Copenhagen
Copenhagen feels alive in every sense, from the colorful streets to the aroma of fresh pastries drifting from corner cafés. The city seems to invite you to explore at a leisurely pace, letting you discover hidden courtyards, quiet canals, and lively squares along the way. Every corner has its own story, and the food reflects that perfectly, with each bite offering a small taste of Danish culture and tradition. By the end of the day, we weren’t just sampling the city’s flavors, we were fully immersed in its rhythm, experiencing it in a way that feels both personal and unforgettable.
Tivoli Gardens Food Stall – Traditional Danish Hotdog (Rød Pølse)
The lights and buzz of Tivoli Gardens drew us in, and a classic Danish hotdog, or Rød Pølse, was the first stop. The bright red sausage was perfectly seasoned, snuggled in a soft bun with mustard, ketchup and crispy onions. Eating it while wandering among the gardens felt like a small, simple slice of Danish life.
Dhaba Kitchen (Tivoli Gardens) – Butter Chicken
A short stroll brought us to Dhaba Kitchen. The butter chicken was rich and creamy, with a hint of spice that lingered just enough. Paired with fluffy rice, it felt like a comforting hug on a plate. The warmth of the dish contrasted perfectly with the crisp air outside, and we lingered a little longer than we planned.
Espresso House – Cinnamon Bun, Chocolate Croissant and Cappuccinos
Breakfast at Espresso House had set the tone for indulgence. The cinnamon bun, or kanelsnegl, was soft and gooey, perfectly spiced, while the chocolate croissant had that ideal balance of flaky pastry and rich chocolate filling. The cappuccinos were creamy and just the right boost to get us moving through the city.
7-Eleven – Hotdog
We grabbed a quick snack at 7-Eleven, and it turned out to be unexpectedly satisfying. The hotdog sat neatly in a bun with a hole to fit the sausage perfectly. Mustard and mayo finished it off. It was simple, practical, and oddly fun to eat on the go.
Gasoline Grill – Classic Burger and Fries
Gasoline Grill has a reputation for a reason. The classic burger was juicy and perfectly cooked, the bun soft and fresh, and the fries crisp without being greasy. It’s a great example of doing the basics extremely well. Every bite felt effortless and satisfying, the kind of meal that makes you want to go back for another.
Conditori La Glace – Noddebo Præstetærte and Sachertorte
At Conditori La Glace, the oldest patisserie in Copenhagen, time seemed to slow down. I had the Noddebo Præstetærte, a rich nut tart with the perfect crunch, while Nick opted for the Sachertorte, decadently chocolatey and indulgent. Sharing the table, tasting these treats, and watching people pass by felt like a small slice of Copenhagen’s history.
Hviids Vinstue – Smørrebrød
Our day ended at Hviids Vinstue, Copenhagen’s oldest wine bar, dating back to 1723. The open-faced smørrebrød were piled high with fresh, flavorful ingredients, each bite a mix of textures and tastes. We paired them with a crisp white wine, which complemented the dishes beautifully. The dark wood interiors and candlelit tables made it feel timeless, and it was a perfect way to soak in a little piece of Copenhagen tradition.
By the end of our food journey, we had tasted everything from simple hotdogs to indulgent pastries, classic burgers, and traditional smørrebrød. Exploring Copenhagen through its flavors made every street, canal, and square feel more personal. Sometimes the best way to know a place is through the meals you share along the way, and Copenhagen certainly left its mark on ours.
