Affordable Dining in Copenhagen’s Culinary Scene
Since Noma burst onto the global dining scene in 2010, topping the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, Copenhagen has emerged as one of the world’s premier gourmet capitals. Thousands from around the globe flock to the Danish capital each year to savor its destination restaurants, from the legendary Noma to the current world number one, Geranium. For food enthusiasts, dining in Copenhagen can be costly, as it is one of Europe’s most expensive cities, especially in the realm of fine dining with extravagant tasting menus and wine pairings.
However, there is an alternative: many of the city’s top chefs operate more casual, affordable restaurants, allowing visitors to enjoy the culinary masterpieces of Copenhagen’s elite without breaking the bank. While iconic restaurants shouldn’t be completely overlooked, this guide explores wallet-friendly dining options from Copenhagen’s best chefs, offering fantastic culinary experiences at a fraction of the cost.
Kappo Ando
Open since December 2022, Kappo Ando is a new Japanese restaurant founded by the husband and wife team Henrik and Akiko Ando-Levinsen, alongside chef Mads Battefeld. This trio gained acclaim in Copenhagen with Sushi Anaba, an eight-seat sushi counter celebrated as the best in Scandinavia. While the omakase menu is around £200 per person, Kappo Ando offers a laidback atmosphere with an exceptional menu featuring yakitori, sashimi, rice, and inventive dishes like cauliflower tofu. For budget-conscious diners, a la carte Sunday sessions allow you to choose dishes individually.
Address: Kappo Ando, Øster Farimagsgade 93, 2100 København, Denmark
Website: kappoando.com
Juju
Kristian Baumann, a prestigious chef in Copenhagen, has worked at renowned restaurants such as 108 and Relæ. While a meal at his fine-dining venue Koan is priced at £300 per head, his casual restaurant Juju serves modern Korean favorites at a fraction of the cost. A five-course set menu at Juju is just £45, while a la carte options allow customization. Must-try dishes include pickled cucumber salad, delicate rainbow trout, and in-house made white kimchi.
Address: Restaurant Juju, Øster Farimagsgade 8, 2100 København, Denmark
Website: jujucph.dk
POPL Burger
If you missed a reservation at Noma or find the cost prohibitive, then POPL Burger is a great alternative. Originally a pop-up at Noma during the lockdown in 2020, it has now become a permanent fixture. The restaurant, staffed by Noma alumni, offers a unique menu that includes organic Danish cheeseburgers and inventive options like a fried fish sandwich with caviar. The emphasis is on quality ingredients and innovative flavors, making it a standout burger joint.
Address: POPL Burger, Strandgade 108, 1401 København, Denmark
Website: poplburger.com
Restaurant Barr
Launched in 2017 by chef Thorsten Schmidt, Barr serves as an excellent alternative to Noma, offering a more casual and affordable dining experience. Located at the original Noma site in Christianshavn, Barr features an enticing three-course menu for approximately £55, including local specialties like spiced herring and schnitzel. Additionally, the beer bar next door offers casual snacks paired with a vast selection of craft brews.
Address: Restaurant Barr, Strandgade 93, 1401 København, Denmark
Website: restaurantbarr.com
Hija de Sanchez
For a taste of Mexico in Copenhagen, Hija de Sanchez, founded by former Noma pastry chef Rosio Sanchez, brings warmth to the cold days. With affordable tacos and sides starting at just £5, this mini-chain of taquerias offers a simple yet delightful menu. All tortillas are crafted in-house, with options such as carnitas and al pastor. Dotted around the city, these taco spots are perfect for quick bites while enjoying the local scenery.
Address: multiple locations; details available on the website
Website: lovesanchez.com
Bæst
Copenhagen chef Christian Puglisi, known for his influence in New Nordic Cuisine, operates Bæst, a pizzeria celebrating local ingredients. Offering pizzas starting at £15, each pie features toppings from his organic farm. The restaurant utilizes a wood-fired oven for expertly crafted pizzas. You can also enjoy small plates and desserts, or indulge in an 11-course set menu for exceptional value.
Address: Bæst, Guldbergsgade 29, 2200 København N, Denmark
Website: baest.dk
Mirabelle Spisería
Mirabelle Spisería, which opened in March 2023, emerged from the successful Mirabelle Bakery. This restaurant and wine bar offers a diverse menu influenced by the chef’s Sicilian background, focusing on local organic ingredients. Diners can enjoy freshly baked focaccia, Sicilian classics like arancini, and fresh pasta. An affordable seven-course menu is available, or you can opt for a pasta dish and wine for a satisfying meal at under £20.
Address: Mirabelle Spisería, Guldbergsgade 29A, 2200 København N, Denmark
Website: mirabelle-spiseria.dk
