When it comes to traditional Danish foods in Denmark, not many travellers know what to expect from the culinary scene of this small Nordic country. Danish food is all about hearty, comforting dishes passed down through generations, that contribute to the Hygge concept of the country.
When I travel somewhere new, I always research and the local cuisine and try to enjoy as many dishes as possible during my trip. The traditional cuisine of a country is part of its history and through it, people gather together around the dinner table. And if you are the same, then read on.
I’ve explored Denmark extensively, tasted these traditional delights firsthand, and know just where to find them. Are you ready to explore Denmark’s traditional dishes?
Let me guide you to the best places in Copenhagen to try these iconic dishes and experience the true taste of the Danish culinary culture.
What to Eat In Copenhagen
Smørrebrød & Stjerneskud
Smør means butter and brød means bread in Danish.
Smørrebrød are open-faced sandwiches usually consisting of a piece of buttered dark brown rye bread (rugbrød), topped with cheese, pickled herring, eggs, potatoes, and meat. The combinations are endless and personal, but all delicious. Each bite is a new experience. Smørrebrød is truly a must-try!
I enjoyed smørrebrød at several places in Copenhagen, but the restaurants Aamanns 1921 and Schønnemann are my absolute favorites!
At Restaurant Schønnemann, you should also try Stjerneskud which translates to a shooting star, named as a tribute to the first man in space. Stjerneskud is topped with two pieces of fish – one steamed white fish and the other one fried, a mound of shrimp, lemon, cucumber, lettuce, tomato, and caviar from Limfjord.
Stegt flæsk – Fried Pork Belly
Denmark’s national dish is Stegt flæst – crispy fried pork served with boiled potatoes and a parsley sauce. Typically enjoyed during lunch or dinner, Stegt flæsk is a must-try if you are visiting Denmark. It is a simple yet incredibly satisfying Danish dish.
Stegt flæsk is made from thick slices of pork belly, roasted until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender. The salty crunchy pork pairs exquisitely with the parsley sauce – the combination of flavors is simply divine. To make it even more delightful, order it with a side of pickled red cabbage (rødkål).
I have eaten the fried pork belly at many restaurants but Ganløse Kro in Copenhagen really stood out. The atmosphere is warm and inviting with pleasant music, perfect for enjoying this wholesome Danish meal.
Danish Hot Dogs
The most popular fast-selling street food in Copenhagen is the Danish hot dog. The classic Danish hot dog features a long, juicy rød pølse (red sausage), nestled in a soft bun and topped with an array of delicious condiments.
You will find many pølsevogn (hot dog carts) scattered throughout Copenhagen. When I tasted the Danish hot dog for the first time, I was hooked. It is a comfort food at its finest!
Danish hot dogs are typically enjoyed as a quick lunch or snack anytime throughout the day, making them perfect for a midday pick-me-up while exploring the city. Head to John’s Hotdog Deli or DØP (Den Økologiske Pølsemand). They serve organic hot dogs with gourmet toppings and have vegetarian options as well.
If you are in Copenhagen, don’t miss out on trying the Danish hot dogs from one of these iconic Danish hotdog carts.
Danish Pastries
Danish pastries come in a variety of shapes and are filled with everything from sweet fruit jam to cinnamon. Made from quality ingredients, Danes take pride in their handmade pastries. They are an essential part of Danish cuisine and Danes enjoy them for breakfast or in the evening with a cup of coffee or tea.
I absolutely love Danish pastries. They’re just so tempting and I find myself wanting more every time I look. They are hard to resist!
The taste is simply rich, always fresh, and beautifully presented. Here is a list of Danish bakeries and must-try pastries you shouldn’t miss while visiting Copenhagen.
Grab a Danish pastry on the go, or sit in a cozy cafe and enjoy every bite of happiness.
Traditional Danish Soups
Danes love to eat the soups as a starter before their main course. The traditional Danish soups include,
- Koldskål – Translates to a cold bowl, which is perfect for the warm summer months. It is based on buttermilk and plain yogurt and sweetened with sugar and vanilla.
- Gul ærtesuppe (yellow pea soup) – A thick soup served together with salted pork, rye bread, carrots, and onions.
- Hønsekødssuppe (chicken soup) – The broth is served with flour balls (Melboller), milk, pork meatballs, (kødboller), and fresh vegetables like celery and leeks.
Combine the Danish soups with rye bread for a satisfying meal. I love enjoying the warm broth for lunch or dinner, especially during the colder winter months.
Frikadeller – Danish Meatballs
The pan-fried golden Danish meatballs are made from minced pork, milk, and eggs with onions and spices. Served with boiled potatoes and gravy, the crunchy exterior and the tender meat inside taste so good. White or red cabbage is a classic side dish for the savory meatballs.
Regular among Danes, frikadeller is one of the popular traditional dishes served for dinner or with rye bread for lunch but honestly it can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
You can find it at many local eateries, but I highly suggest visiting Smagsløget restaurant. Nyhavn’s Færgekro also serves good meatballs.
Øllebrød and Risengrød
Øllebrød translates to beer bread. It is a traditional Danish porridge made from sourdough rye bread, sugar, and Danish beer hvidtøl. It is popularly served for breakfast with cold milk and whipped cream. Lemon or orange zest is sometimes added for spice.
The warm, slightly sweet porridge with the hint of tangy flavor from the beer is pleasantly surprising. The porridge is thick and feels like a warm hug on cold mornings. I recommend trying it with some fresh fruits or nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra flavor boost.
Øllebrød is mostly cooked at home and only a few restaurants serve them. Danish Restaurant Grød serves them during winter. Alternatively, you can find their signature oat porridge, havregrød at all times of the year.
Risengrød, also a Danish rice porridge is a popular traditional dish eaten the day before Christmas Eve. The leftover Risengrød serves as a base for my favourite Christmas dessert Risalamande, served with red cherry sauce. You must try Risalamande which is available only during the Christmas season across Denmark.
Danish Beverages
Beer and wine are fairly common drinks at mealtimes but so are soft drinks, plain water, coffee, and tea. Here are some unique must-try beverages that are truly Danish.
- Akvavit or Schnaps – An alcoholic drink distilled with various herbs and spices, is a staple in Danish culture. Aalborg’s Akvavit is a world famous beverage.
- Gammel Dansk – This herbal liqueur is a classic Danish drink made from 29 different herbs, spices, and flowers. It has a balanced bitter taste.
- Danish Beer – Denmark is famous for its beer culture, with Carlsberg, Tuborg, and numerous other breweries across the country. I love visiting local breweries such as BrewPub and WarPigs in Copenhagen to sample craft beers.
- Gløgg – As winter approaches, gløgg becomes a favorite among locals. This spiced mulled wine is infused with cinnamon, cloves, and orange peel.
Æbleskiver
If you are visiting Denmark during the Christmas season, you should not miss trying the seasonal dish called Æbleskiver, the Danish round pancake topped with powdered sugar and jam.
Æbleskiver translates to apple slices. Traditionally Aebleskiver used to have apple pieces added to them which is where they got their name, but nowadays apples are no longer included.
Aebleskiver is typically made up of flour, eggs, buttermilk, sugar, and baking powder. These little golden brown balls are fluffy on the outside and super soft on the inside. The sweet dusting of powdered sugar or a side of jam adds the perfect balance of sweetness.
You’ll find Aebleskiver all over Denmark during Christmas. For fresh Æbleskiver, head to the Christmas markets or Danish bakeries in Copenhagen. I like to pair it with gløgg mulled wine. You should definitely try this iconic Christmas treat at least once.
Traditional Danish Christmas Lunch – Julefrokost
As Christmas approaches in Denmark, Julefrokost, a traditional Christmas lunch, is one of the most anticipated meals of the season. It is not just a meal, it is a Danish culinary experience where a three-course traditional meal is served with a lot of Schnapps. The feast is a must-try.
The first course starts with the Smørrebrød, and the main course with a lot of pork and duck meat, followed by the delicious dessert of Risalamande. The roasted pork with crispy cracklings is my personal favorite.
Numerous restaurants in Copenhagen serve Julefrokost from late November and December (yes, Christmas starts early here). Friends, family, and colleagues gather together to celebrate the tradition and the joy of the festive meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do Danes eat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner?
The basic Danish breakfast consists of rye bread with coffee or tea or salad. For lunch Danes eat Smørrebrød. Sometimes, porridge. Dinner usually consists of a meat dish with potatoes or a vegetable.
Is fish consumed in Denmark?
Denmark has an extensive coastline and numerous small islands thereby having a rich tradition of fishing. Seafood is an integral part of Danish cuisine.
What is the main Danish staple food?
Meat especially pork and root vegetables like carrot and potato are consumed a lot in Denmark. Rye bread and fish are a staple in Denmark.
Is vegetarian food available in Denmark?
Yes. Vegetarian and vegan food options can be found across several restaurants in Denmark.
Final Thoughts
The traditional Danish foods have become very popular in recent years. Danish chefs have helped to put Denmark on the world gastronomic map with 31 Michelin-starred restaurants in Denmark.
Now that you have a list of Denmark’s traditional dishes and where to find them, your culinary adventure is all set! Go ahead and indulge in the Danish flavors – Bon appétit!
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Between the Smørrebrød and the pastries, I’d be in heaven! Thanks for the travel foodie tips. I’ve pinned it for later reference.
I love posts like this that offer advice on traditional foods in foreign countries… I never know what is a gimmek and what is authentic. love the looks of all the breads and pastries!
This really makes me want to visit Copenhagen next year! Great guide!
This all looks delicious but I would especially like to try their pastries and soups. Yum!
Oh my gosh, It all sounds so good! The “beer bread” is a little on the stranger side tho – i’d love to give it a try! It has to be good if most Danes are eating it for breakfast.