When you want a good cocktail, nothing else will scratch that itch. We know, we’ve been there. Whether it’s a classic martini – made with GIN, please. I’m not interested in these new-fangled vodka martinis – or something with muddled mint, cucumber and ginger (that sounds good. Did I just make that up?), Copenhagen’s got a vast array of bars around the city that are waiting to serve you the best cocktails. Be warned: top-shelf and, yeah, even house-liquor cocktails are not cheap in this city. But that just means you’re forced to really enjoy each sip!
From hot new hidden dens to tried-and-true staples in every neighborhood, these are the best cocktail bars in Copenhagen:
Ruby
The cocktail bar to end all cocktail bars in Copenhagen – this place has gained legendary status not just because it’s hidden within a no-sign door and confusing entryway (is that place really the Georgian Embassy? Yep. It is) but because the cocktails are genuinely ex-cell-ent. Choose from an impressive list of seasonal and original drinks; you can’t go wrong. Dress up, go in your work gear or show up in jeans – there’s no dress code here. Just a cosy atmosphere, low-lights and smart blends.
→ Ruby
Opening hours
Monday – Saturday: 4.00pm – 2.00am
Sunday: 7:00 pm – 2:00am
Cocktails start at 100 DKK
Lidkoeb
Owned by the same people who brought you Ruby (so you know it’s good), Lidkoeb has made its own name in the Copenhagen cocktail world. It’s a laid-back place that serves great drinks and has plenty of beers on tap. The real treat, however, is for whisky lovers: starting at 8 pm on weekends, the upstairs turns into a whisky bar with over 200 whiskys from around the world!
→ Lidkoeb
Vesterbrogade 72B
1620 København V
Opening Hours
Monday – Saturday: 4.00pm – 2.00am
Sunday: 8.00pm – 2.00am
Cocktails start at 90 DKK
1105
Emerald Hills, a cucumber-infused gin cocktail, is one of my favorite mixed-drinks of all time. Masters of the refreshing, tasty but not overwhelming cocktail, 1105 is a must-try for liquor-lovers. The atmosphere is pretty low-key but the prices aren’t, so make sure you really savor that drink!
→ 1105
Kristen Bernikows Gade 4
1105 København K
Opening Hours
Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday: 8.00pm – 2.00am
Friday 4.00pm – 2.00am
Monday – Wednesday available for private events
Cocktails start at 110 DKK
Library Bar
If you’re really looking to disappear into your own world for the night, Library Bar is the place for you. Wood panels, plenty of books, that musky library smell and, obviously, great drinks. Highly recommended for a mellow night. They occasionally have live music, so check out the calendar on their site for more info.
→ Library Bar
Copenhagen Plaza
Bernstorffsgade 4
1577 København V
Opening Hours
Monday – Thursday: 4.00pm – 12.00am
Friday & Saturday: 4:00pm – 1:30am
Closed Sunday
Cocktails start at 85 DKK
Curfew
Opened in 2015 by Humberto Marques, previously of 1105, this cocktail bar’s tame name belies its speakeasy and cheeky attitude. Unexpected drinks like the Eucalyptus Martini are beautifully made and delicious. The old-fashioned style of the bartenders and decor pairs nicely with the ultra-modern menu.
→ Curfew
Opening Hours
Tuesday – Thursday: 6.00pm – 2.00am
Friday: 4.00pm – 4.00am
Saturday: 6.00pm – 4.00am
Closed Sunday & Monday
Cocktails start at 110 DKK
Bar Next Door
This Madklubben-run cocktail bar has a numbered menu with creative and fun drinks. The location – right on the lakes, on the Nørrebro-side of Dronning Louises Bro – can’t be beat, especially in the warmer months. Reasonable prices, a low-key vibe and a selection of yummy fried snacks fill out the list of reasons why you should check this place out.
→ Bar Next Door
Sortedam Dossering 3
2200 København N
Opening Hours
Tuesday – Saturday: 4.30 pm – 12.00 am
Closed Sunday & Monday
Cocktails start at 75 DKK
Honorable Mentions:
→ Duck and Cover
→ Balderdash
→ The Barking Dog
→ Gilt
→ Restaurant Llama
→ Brass Monkey
→ Helium
→ Brønnum
→ Conga
This article was originally published 30 March 2015.