During the last two decades, Copenhagen’s food scene has been causing a stir around the world. Chefs flock to this Michelin star-studded city to make their mark, for this is one of Europe’s top culinary destinations.

Foodies should make a pilgrimage here to try the wide-ranging gastro offering presented by Copenhagen’s restaurants. From out-of-this-world street food to delectable fine dining, you’re in for a tasty treat in this city.

Discover the best restaurants in Copenhagen, as well as cafés and food stalls, with our insider’s guide.

For fine dining: Noma

A pioneer of the New Nordic movement, Noma has long been a star of Copenhagen’s food scene. It won the much-coveted World's Best Restaurant accolade five times and was awarded two Michelin stars before closing to reinvent itself.

This legendary restaurant has finally reopened its doors at a new location and is back with a revamped menu. It changes three times a year in line with the seasons, so what you’ll be served will depend on when you visit. Seafood Season is from January to June, Vegetable Season from summer to early autumn and Game & Forest Season from early autumn to December.

For seafood: Kødbyens Fiskebar

If you’re all about fresh seafood, Kødbyens Fiskebar is the place to go in the city, ironically located in the Meatpacking District. The atmosphere here is half the fun, with punters lining up to eat at both the tables and the bar.

Oysters, whitebait and scallops all make perfect starters, while mains vary from blue mussels steamed in cider to seared haddock. Whatever you choose, wash it down with a crisp glass of white wine.

For smørrebrød: Schønnemann

Smørrebrød, Danish open sandwiches, are a staple of Copenhagen’s foodie line-up and the best place to try them is Schønnemann. This centuries-old restaurant has been serving hungry locals since 1877 and has more than 110 variations of smørrebrød to choose from! Want to eat like a Dane? Plump for pickled herring with onions and capers.

For Nordic: Marv & Ben

Tucked away on one of Copenhagen’s oldest streets, Marv & Ben is an ode to Nordic gastronomy. The six-course tasting menu is the perfect introduction to the cuisine, with each dish prepared exquisitely. Scallops with fermented cucumber, grilled pork with preserved berries and aged raw beef with mushrooms are just some of the exceptional things you can expect to try.

For pizza: Pizzeria Mamemi & Wine Bar

Pizza isn’t just saved for trips to Italy. Get a taste of the good life in the Danish capital at Pizzeria Mamemi & Wine Bar. The dough of the base is prepped 48 hours in advance to create a delectable texture – soft on the inside and crispy on the outside. Perfection.

There are only a handful of pizzas to choose from, but each one is topped with ingredients that work harmoniously, and deliciously, together. Go classic with an olive and mozzarella version or try something new with ham, gorgonzola and pistachios.

For traditional Danish: Restaurant Krebsegaarden

With menus inspired by the art gallery neighbouring the building, Restaurant Krebsegaarden takes a unique approach to its food and décor. While the dishes change every month, you can expect classic Danish cooking. Due to its popularity, this eatery fills up fast so make sure you book well in advance.

For lunch: Grams Laekkerier

Need a break from sightseeing? This café is one of the city’s favourite go-to spots. A range of salads, sandwiches and soups are on offer at budget-friendly prices. But the cost doesn’t compromise the taste. Everything here is homemade and tasty with a capital T.

For street food: Torvehallerne

Finger-lickin’ casual dining more your scene? Seek out Torvehallerne in the heart of the city. This food hall is street food nirvana, with more than 20 different stalls offering a flavour of the world. Spicy Korean pancakes, fluffy Italian focaccia sandwiches and freshly crafted sushi can all be found here. Come hungry and eat plenty.

For vegans: Souls

Plant-based eaters can sigh a breath of relief, as this Copenhagen restaurant specialises in vegan food. Breakfast, lunch or dinner, you’ll find Souls’ doors are open. In the morning, opt for an acai bowl or if you’re here later in the day, try the squash, truffle and pesto-topped pizza or the pulled burger with smoked oyster mushrooms, kale slaw and pickled onions.

For atmosphere: Zahida at Kellerdirk

Lively Kellerdirk is renowned in Copenhagen for its live music and relaxed setting – and now you can eat there! Two brothers from the UK are dishing up authentic Pakistani cuisine, with a focus on home cooking and Punjabi flavours. Start with succulent masala lamb chops before devouring the butter chicken, spiced to complete perfection.

With such a huge variety of places to eat in the city, this list of the best restaurants in Copenhagen only scratches the surface. Want to take a bite out of the Danish capital?