It’s Not Easy Being Green: Eating Vegetarian & Vegan in Copenhagen

I will be upfront and tell you that I’m neither a vegetarian nor a vegan. I do, however, eat a very limited amount of meat (I don’t like it that much) and almost no dairy (except for cheese. Because, cheese). But this website is about sharing life in Scandinavia, even the parts that we may not partake in ourselves.

I find the subject of meat and animal-product consumption to be a fascinating one. I’ve lived all over the world and have observed a wealth of cultural approaches to food. I think this is the reason that I can’t allow myself to be dogmatic about food intake; for every good reason to be one way, there’s another good reason to be another way. I do my best to minimize my animal-product use but I also allow health, cultural sensitivity and cravings to be part of the way I think about food.

All that said, eating vegetarian or vegan in Copenhagen isn’t as hard as it used to be. As a city that values pork products above almost all else but also has a small but growing vegetarian faction (1.5% of the population in a 2006 EU survey), it’s necessary to have choices available for those who don’t want bacon on literally everything.

Not all of the restaurants listed are entirely vegetarian/vegan, but those that aren’t (noted in the descriptions) have great green options. We’ve also made sure to share some takeaway joints so that even those on-the-go can find something to eat.

Even if you like a steak now and then, these places offer a fresh alternative to your usual meal out:

42°Raw

Fresh, raw foods including pastries, salads, coffee drinks and smoothies. Entirely vegan.

Note: it’s not possible to make a table booking at 42°Raw!

SimpleRaw

Fruits, veggies, nuts and seeds make up the basis for this raw food restaurant, but that doesn’t mean they don’t get creative. The vegan burger and brunch plate are just two reasons to visit. Entirely vegan.

→ Simpleraw – Vesterbro

Oehlenschlægersgade 12
1663 København V

+45 35 35 30 05
Opening hours:
Monday – Saturday: 10.00 – 22.00
Sunday: 10.00 – 20.00

Palæo

Although not vegetarian, many of the dishes can be ordered without meat, such as the risotto, wraps, and wok. There are also a few vegetarian options already on the menu like the veggie salad. A must-try: the fresh pressed juices.

Note: it’s not possible to make a table booking at Palæo!

BioM

All organic eatery serving a brunch buffet, lunch and dinner. Although this place isn’t vegan (lots of goat cheese), they do have strong vegetarian options for each of their meals.

→ BioM – Vesterbro

Fredericiagade 78
1310 København K

+45 33 32 24 66
Opening hours:
Monday: closed
Tuesday – Friday: 11.30 – 23.00
Saturday: 10.00 – 23.00
Sunday: 10.00 – 14.00 (only brunch)

Govinda Vegetar Takeaway

Vegetarian, seasonal and often vegan, this Indian takeaway and catering shop has a great, changing list of vegetables with rice, soups and other treats. No frills fresh food.

→ Govinda – Vesterbro

Åboulevard 7, st th
1635 København V

+45 32 14 03 62
Opening hours:
Monday – Friday: 16.00 – 20.30
Saturday – Sunday: closed

Cafe N

Veggies, veggies, veggies. This cute little cafe serves vegetarian food all day, including a great veggie burger and brunch plate. Nothing too fancy; just cosy, hearty and delicious.

→ Cafe N – Nørrebro

Blågårdsgade 17
2200 København N

+45 32 15 68 52
Opening hours:
Monday – Saturday: 8.00 – 22.00
Sunday: 9.00 – 21.00

Essen Takeaway

Fresh takeaways; not everything is vegetarian but they do have several options. Perfect for a quick bite for lunch or after work.

→ Essen Takeaway – Nørrebro

Fensmarkgade 23
2200 København N

+45 36 90 60 30
Opening hours:
Tuesday – Saturday: 16.30 – 20.30
Sunday – Monday: closed

Morgenstedet

Organic, vegetarian and voluntarily-staffed, Morgenstedt has been a fixture in freetown Christiania for over 20 years. The food changes based on the chef, but you can expect a choice of a hot dish, soup and several salads every day. The low-key vibe mixed with consistently tasty, fresh food makes this a local favorite. Remember to bus your own table when you’re done!

→ Morgenstedet – Christiania

Fabriksområdet 134, Christiania
1440 København K

Opening hours:
Tuesday – Sunday: 12.00 – 21.00
Closed Monday

Don’t forget to check out our Scandi Six of best Kebab shops for a guide to great falafel!

Didn’t see your favorite vegetarian or vegan restaurant in Copenhagen? Leave it in the comments!

Photos by Josef Brock. Header image: Palæo.