Danish cuisine is a delightful blend of hearty, comforting dishes and artfully prepared treats that celebrate local ingredients and seasonal flavors. Denmark’s culinary culture is rooted in traditions that combine freshness, simplicity, and a touch of Scandinavian coziness. Whether you’re sampling Denmark’s open-faced sandwiches or enjoying a flaky Danish pastry, these classic dishes give you an authentic taste of Danish life. Here’s a guide to some must-try Danish dishes and the best spots to find them.
1. Smørrebrød – The Iconic Open-Faced Sandwich
If there’s one dish that defines Danish cuisine, it’s smørrebrød. These open-faced sandwiches are often built on a foundation of dark, dense rye bread and topped with a variety of fresh, colorful ingredients. Popular toppings include pickled herring with onion and dill, roast beef with horseradish, and egg with shrimp and mayo. Traditionally, smørrebrød is eaten with a fork and knife, as the layers of ingredients make it a bit too delicate for hands.
- Where to Try It: Copenhagen’s Restaurant Schønnemann has been serving smørrebrød since 1877 and offers a wide variety of traditional and creative options. Another great spot is Aamanns 1921, known for its modern twists on this Danish classic.
2. Frikadeller – Danish Meatballs
These Danish meatballs, known as frikadeller, are comforting, pan-fried morsels typically made from a mixture of pork and veal, with onions and spices. Served with potatoes and a side of creamy gravy or cabbage, frikadeller is a homestyle dish enjoyed by Danes at family gatherings and celebrations. Frikadeller can also be found as street food, making it a perfect choice for travelers who want to experience Danish flavors on the go.
- Where to Try It: For a traditional taste, visit Palaegade in Copenhagen, where the frikadeller come with potatoes and pickled cucumbers. If you’re after a quick bite, try street food vendors at Reffen Street Food Market for a more casual setting.
3. Danish Pastries – A Sweet Morning Tradition
It’s no secret that Danish pastries are a beloved treat worldwide, but nothing compares to enjoying one freshly baked in Denmark. Known locally as wienerbrød (Viennese bread), these pastries are buttery, flaky, and often filled with custard, almond paste, or fruit jam. Pair a pastry with a hot coffee for the perfect start to your day.
- Where to Try It: Lagkagehuset (also known as Ole & Steen) is a popular bakery chain across Denmark with an excellent variety of traditional pastries. For a smaller, artisan experience, try Meyers Bageri in the trendy Nørrebro neighborhood in Copenhagen.
4. Stegt Flæsk – Denmark’s National Dish
Crispy pork belly served with parsley sauce and boiled potatoes, stegt flæsk is Denmark’s national dish and a must-try for meat lovers. This simple but hearty dish showcases the Danish love for pork and is especially satisfying on a cold day.
- Where to Try It: Krogs Fiskerestaurant in Copenhagen has a fantastic version of stegt flæsk, as well as a cozy setting to enjoy it. Another option is Restaurant Klubben, known for its traditional Danish menu and relaxed atmosphere.
5. Rødgrød med Fløde – A Taste of Danish Summer
Rødgrød med fløde is a classic Danish summer dessert that translates to “red porridge with cream.” Made from seasonal berries like strawberries, raspberries, and red currants, this dessert is thickened with a bit of potato starch and served with fresh cream. It’s refreshing and light, making it the perfect way to end a meal during Denmark’s warmer months.
- Where to Try It: Try Grøften in Tivoli Gardens, a historic restaurant serving traditional Danish dishes and desserts, including rødgrød med fløde.
6. Flæskesteg – Roast Pork with Crackling
No Danish Christmas feast is complete without flæskesteg, a roast pork with crispy crackling served with caramelized potatoes and red cabbage. While it’s a seasonal favorite, you can find it on some menus throughout the year. This savory dish is packed with flavor and is a true example of Danish comfort food.
- Where to Try It: Restaurant Puk in Copenhagen is known for its authentic Danish dishes, including flæskesteg. The cozy, historic setting adds to the charm of enjoying this meal.
7. Danish Hot Dogs – A Street Food Staple
Danish hot dogs are not your average street food—they’re elevated with toppings like crispy onions, pickles, remoulade, and mustard, all piled onto a juicy sausage. Stands known as pølsevogne (sausage wagons) can be found on nearly every corner, and each offers a unique twist on this Danish classic.
- Where to Try It: DØP (Den Økologiske Pølsemand) near Round Tower in Copenhagen is famous for its organic hot dogs and unique toppings. Try the classic red sausage for an authentic experience.
8. Fresh Seafood – A Coastal Delight
Given Denmark’s proximity to the sea, fresh seafood is plentiful and delicious. Try dishes featuring herring, shrimp, or plaice, often served with simple, fresh sides that let the quality of the seafood shine.
- Where to Try It: Kødbyens Fiskebar in Copenhagen’s Meatpacking District has some of the freshest seafood options in the city. Or, head to Aarhus Street Food in Aarhus for a variety of seafood dishes in a casual setting.
