Six New Nordic Restaurants to Try in Copenhagen

There aren’t many things we’ve devoted as much mental space to as figuring out what the hell “New Nordic” actually is. How “new” is it, really? Do you have to forage? Must there be ants? Can it cost less than a month’s mortgage? These are the big questions!

Happily, even the restaurant that originated the craze – noma – seems to have an ever-evolving definition, one which is mostly focused on the inclusion of fresh, seasonal ingredients and pure flavors. The rest you can take or leave.

Here are the spots in Copenhagen that are exploring every facet of what it means to be New Nordic:

Affordable

Selma

Selma is a charming, budget-friendly restaurant situated in the heart of Copenhagen, and offers an affordable and unique take on New Nordic cuisine. Named after the chef-owner’s daughter, Selma is run by a friendly young team, and offers a contemporary twist on the traditional Danish lunch staple of smørrebrød.

The restaurant’s focus on creative toppings, such as elderflower herring with crème fraîche and buckwheat, has won it widespread acclaim, and it was the first smørrebrød joint to be awarded a Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide. Controversial!

Chef Magnus Pettersson, a Swedish chef, has taken on the challenge of re-inventing Denmark’s number one food classic, and has created a menu that respects tradition while also offering modern takes on the classic dish.

At Selma, you can choose from an à la carte or the affordable set menu, which has been awarded a Bib Gourmand in the Michelin guide. In addition to the restaurant’s focus on smørrebrød, there are also snacks and small plates that are perfect for sharing.

 

 

The restaurant also offers an excellent selection of craft beers on tap, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.

The decor at Selma is simple and rustic, with wooden tables and chairs, and warm lighting that creates a cozy atmosphere. The menu changes regularly to reflect the seasons, and the restaurant uses only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. Whether you’re a fan of classic smørrebrød or are looking for a unique and affordable take on New Nordic cuisine, Selma is a must-visit destination in Copenhagen.

 

Selma

Rømergade 20
1362 Copenhagen K
Opening Hours:
Weds – Mon 11:30 am – 4:00 pm (Lunch)
Thurs – Sat 6:30 – 11:00 pm (DInner)

 
 

Gro Spiseri

Looking for a unique dining experience? Head to Gro Spiseri, a small, cozy restaurant nestled in the middle of a lush rooftop garden. This hidden gem is the perfect spot to try new Nordic cuisine, with a focus on organic, locally-sourced produce. And the best part? Despite its reputation for quality cuisine, Gro Spiseri is surprisingly affordable.

Gro Spiseri’s unique Nordic cuisine is a feast for the senses. Each dish is carefully crafted to highlight the flavors of the locally-sourced ingredients, resulting in a menu that is both innovative and delicious. From savory lamb dishes to delicate seafood plates, the menu at Gro Spiseri is always changing, ensuring that every visit is a new and exciting experience.

As for a fun fact, did you know that the head chef at Gro Spiseri used to be a professional skateboarder? He’s since traded in his skateboard for a chef’s knife, but his passion for pushing boundaries and creating unique experiences is still evident in every dish he creates.

 

 

Gro Spiseri

Æbeløgade 4
2100 København Ø

Opening Hours:
Mon, Wed, Thurs 17:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Fri 12:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Sat – Sun 10:00 am – 11:00 pm
(only with pre-booking)

 

 
 

Midway Price

Höst

Höst is a restaurant in central Copenhagen that is part of the Cofoco restaurant group. The restaurant is well-known for its Michelin-starred reputation and offers a seasonal set menu consisting of 4 to 7 courses. Despite its popularity, Höst maintains its commitment to well-priced, high-quality food.

The interior of the restaurant is minimalist yet cozy, with lush furnishings that create a welcoming atmosphere. This chic and modern design perfectly complements the innovative cuisine that Höst is known for.

If you’re new to New Nordic cuisine, Höst is a great introduction to this unique culinary style. Not only does it offer a diverse and interesting menu, but it also provides an immersive experience that is sure to impress.

 

 

→ Höst

Nørre Farimagsgade 41
1364 København K

Opening Hours:
Everyday 5:30 pm – midnight (last seating at 9:30 pm)

 

 
 

Alouette

Nestled within an industrial structure adorned with vibrant graffiti on Islands Brygge, Alouette stands out as an unconventional haven for a Michelin-starred dining experience. The establishment, overseen by American chef Nick Curtin, offers a beautiful setting that prioritizes the excellence of cuisine and wine without exuding an air of pretentiousness.

Central to Alouette’s culinary philosophy are the principles of seasonality and the use of locally-sourced ingredients. While it bears resemblance to the New Nordic cuisine, Alouette presents a more globally-inspired perspective on gastronomy.

 

 

Alouette

Sturlasgade 14P, 1
2300 Copenhagen S

Opening Hours:
Sun- Weds Closed
Thurs – Sat By reservation

 

 
 

Expensive

Kadeau

Kadeau takes New Nordic cuisine one step further and focuses solely on the produce of Bornholm, the Danish island off the coast of Sweden in the Baltic sea. Eating here is a truly beautiful experience, with both the food and interior showcasing the elevated simplicity of Nordic ingredients. They also have a location on Bornholm itself.

The restaurant’s tasting menu is inspired by the island’s terroir, and features ingredients such as freshly foraged herbs and vegetables, wild game, and seafood caught in the surrounding waters.

 

Kadeau has been awarded two Michelin stars, and is widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in Scandinavia. In addition to the tasting menu, Kadeau also offers a more casual dining experience in their wine bar, which features a selection of small plates and an extensive wine list.

Located in the heart of Copenhagen, Kadeau’s interior reflects the restaurant’s dedication to simplicity and the natural world. The decor features clean lines, natural wood, and earthy tones that evoke the island landscape. Large windows provide plenty of natural light, and offer views of the bustling street outside. The overall effect is one of warmth, comfort, and understated elegance, which perfectly complements the restaurant’s focus on locally-sourced ingredients and sustainable practices.

 

→ Kadeau København

Wildersgade 10B
1408 København K

Opening Hours:
Sat (Lunch) 12:00 – 4:00 pm
Weds – Sat (Dinner) 6:30pm – midnight

 

 
 

In a League of Its Own

noma

The Godfather of New Nordic restaurants, noma is where you go when you want not only a meal but a museum-level art presentation and an inspirational TED-talk in masticating (I’m kidding, kind of). They’re always pushing the boundaries of what New Nordic means and integrating new ideas into their menu, so even though the restaurant has been open since 2003, they’ve never stagnated, winning Best Restaurant in the World in 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2014.

Yes, their multi-course menu is expensive (1900 DKK per person and an additional 1100 DKK per person for wine), but it is also a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The set menu changes regularly and can include up to 20 courses. If you’re passionate about food, consider a visit to noma your white whale (or a slightly less abrasive metaphor).

 

→ noma

Strandgade 93
DK-1401 Copenhagen K

Opening hours:
Tuesday – Saturday
Lunch: 12.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m.
Dinner: 7.00 p.m. – 00.30 a.m.

 

Honorable Mentions in this category

→ Restaurant Geranium

→ AOC

 

Common New Nordic ingredients

Here are some common Nordic ingredients:

Rye Bread	This dense, dark bread is a staple in Nordic cuisine and is made from rye flour.
Salmon	Salmon is a popular fish in Nordic cuisine and is often served smoked or cured.
Lingonberries	These tart, red berries are commonly used in Nordic cuisine to make jam, sauce, and baked goods.
Dill	This herb is used extensively in Nordic cuisine, particularly in gravlax (cured salmon) and other fish dishes.
Cabbage	Cabbage is a common vegetable in Nordic cuisine and is often used in sauerkraut and other fermented dishes.
Potatoes	Potatoes are a staple in Nordic cuisine and are often boiled, mashed, or roasted.
Cloudberries	These tart, orange berries are a delicacy in Nordic cuisine and are often used to make jam, sauce, and desserts.
Aquavit	This traditional Nordic spirit is made from grain or potatoes and is often flavored with herbs and spices.
Cardamom	This spice is used extensively in Nordic baking, particularly in sweet breads and pastries.
Juniper berries	These small, blue-black berries are used to flavor gin and are also used in Nordic cuisine to flavor meat dishes.
Gravlax	A cured salmon dish, typically served with mustard sauce and dill.
Smoked reindeer	Reindeer is a common game meat in Nordic cuisine and is often smoked and served thinly sliced.
Kanelbullar	A traditional cinnamon roll pastry.
Akvavit	A Scandinavian spirit flavored with herbs and spices.
Elk	Elk meat is a popular game meat in Nordic cuisine, often served as a steak or in meatballs.

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