Danish food has a great variety of flavors and uses fresh ingredients. During our trip to Denmark, we ate a lot of fish. The fish there is fresh and delicious. We tried many dishes, but our favorite was the open sandwich. The best open sandwiches we had were at a café in Hilsingore Museum. Danish cuisine shows its history and the influence of the sea in every dish. Whether we ate hearty meals in winter or light dishes in summer, all food we tried was fantastic.
Danish food- Food to try in Denmark
Open Sandwich (Smørrebrød)
Smørrebrød is a Danish open-faced sandwich. It features a slice of rye bread topped with various ingredients. Common toppings include herring, roast beef, and eggs. The sandwich is often garnished with fresh herbs and vegetables.
Where to try: Visit Aamanns 1921 in Copenhagen. They are famous for their high-quality smørrebrød. Another great spot is Restaurant Schønnemann, which has been serving smørrebrød since 1877.
Fried Pork (Stegt Flæsk)
Stegt flæsk is the national dish of Denmark. It consists of crispy pork belly served with potatoes and parsley sauce. The pork is fried until golden and crunchy. This dish is hearty and satisfying.
Where to try: Head to Frk. Barners Kaelder in Copenhagen for an authentic experience. Another excellent choice is Restaurant Puk, known for its traditional Danish cuisine.
Smoked Salmon (Røget Laks)
Røget laks is a staple in Danish cuisine. The salmon is smoked to perfection, often served with bread and a dollop of mustard sauce. It is a delicate and flavorful dish.
Where to try: Torvehallerne, Copenhagen’s food market, offers various smoked salmon options. For a fine dining experience, try Nimb Brasserie in Tivoli Gardens.
Danish food
Deep-Fried Fish with Shrimps (Fiskefilet med Rejer)
Fiskefilet med rejer combines deep-fried fish fillets with fresh shrimps. The fish is crispy on the outside and tender inside. It is usually served with remoulade and lemon wedges.
Where to try: Restaurant Kronborg in Copenhagen specializes in this dish. Another good place is Nyhavns Færgekro, located by the harbor.
Baked Cod (Bagt Torsk)
Bagt torsk is a traditional Danish dish. The cod is baked with herbs, butter, and breadcrumbs. It is often served with potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
Where to try: Visit Restaurant Høst in Copenhagen. They are known for their modern take on Danish classics. Also, try Søllerød Kro for an upscale dining experience.
Pariserbøf
It’s a classic dish with a beef patty topped with raw egg yolk, capers, onions, and pickles. The beef is seasoned and cooked well, giving it a juicy and delicious taste. People often eat it with rye bread and crispy fries. This dish is a favorite in Denmark for its strong flavors and comforting appeal.
Open Shrimp Sandwich (Rejemad)
Rejemad is a simple yet delicious open-faced sandwich. It includes fresh shrimp on rye bread, often garnished with dill and lemon. Sometimes it comes with a layer of mayonnaise.
Where to try: Café Gammel Torv in Copenhagen serves an excellent rejemad. Another great place is Ida Davidsen, known for its extensive smørrebrød menu.
Danish Beer: Tuborg
Tuborg is a classic Danish beer. It is light, refreshing, and perfect for pairing with Danish dishes. There are various types of Tuborg, including the popular Tuborg Green.
Where to try: You can find Tuborg in almost every bar and restaurant in Denmark. For a unique experience, visit the Carlsberg Visitor Center, where Tuborg is brewed.
Winter Glogg (Gløgg)
Gløgg is a traditional Danish mulled wine. It is typically enjoyed during the winter months. The drink is warm and spiced, often containing almonds and raisins.
Where to try: Tivoli Gardens’ Christmas market is a great place to enjoy gløgg. Many cafés and restaurants in Copenhagen, Nyhavn area also serve it during the winter season.
Danish Hot Dogs (Pølser)
Pølser are a popular street food in Denmark. Danish hot dogs are known for their crispy skin and flavorful sausages. They are usually served with mustard, ketchup, and remoulade.
Where to try: Find a pølsevogn (hot dog stand) in Copenhagen. Some popular stands include DØP (Den Økologiske Pølsemand) and John’s Hotdog Deli.
5 popular Danish desserts
Hindbærsnitte
This Danish pastry consisting of two layers of buttery shortcrust pastry filled with raspberry jam and topped with a layer of icing. The name translates to “raspberry slice,” and it’s a staple in Danish bakeries. The contrast between the crisp pastry and the sweet-tart raspberry filling makes it a delightful treat for any occasion.
Koldskå
Chilled buttermilk soup served with crunchy biscuits (kammerjunkere) and often flavored with vanilla and lemon. It’s a refreshing summer dessert enjoyed throughout Denmark. The creamy texture of the buttermilk combined with the sweetness of the biscuits creates a light and comforting treat.
Æbleskiver
Round, fluffy Danish pancakes traditionally cooked in a special cast-iron pan. They have a spherical shape and are often filled with apple slices or served with powdered sugar and jam. Æbleskiver are popular during the Christmas season and are enjoyed as a festive treat with family and friends.
Rødgrød med Fløde
Classic Danish dessert made from a mix of red berries (typically strawberries, raspberries, and red currants) cooked into a thick pudding-like consistency, served with cold cream (fløde) poured over the top. The dessert’s name is fun to pronounce and reflects its vibrant color and deliciously fruity flavor.
Brunsviger
Traditional Danish coffee cake made with yeast dough, topped generously with a mix of butter, sugar, and sometimes cinnamon. It’s baked until golden and caramelized, creating a sweet and sticky topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft, fluffy dough underneath. Brunsviger is often enjoyed with a cup of coffee as a comforting treat during morning or afternoon breaks.
Trying these dishes will give you a taste of Denmark’s rich culinary heritage. Whether dining in fine restaurants or enjoying street food, Danish cuisine offers something for everyone. Enjoy!
