The Best Vegan Restaurants in Copenhagen

Our go-to vegan restaurants in the home of New Nordic Cuisine

Copenhagen is one of Europe’s great culinary centres. It’s the birthplace of New Nordic cuisine, home to world-famous Noma and boasts more than 20 Michelin stars. Yet the news that has everyone talking is that the Danish capital has been ranked among Europe’s best countries for vegan food. Its slew of vegan restaurants let diners go meat-free while still enjoying world-class cooking. Featuring ethical fare, award-winning restaurants and plant-based spins on Danish classics, this round-up proves that it’s easy being green.

Try a vegan take on Danish classics

Sample traditional Danish fare with a vegan twist at simpleRAW, where fresh ingredients take centre stage. Expect smørrebrød (an open-faced sandwich) layered with pickled beetroot, smoked carrot and mushroom patties. Come evening, its friendly team serves a three-course tasting menu showcasing local and organic produce.

In a city that’s regularly celebrated for its hot dogs, DØP takes things to the next level with its range of organic pølsevogn (sausages) that includes a meat-free option. Order the tofu sausage at one of its two stands at Round Tower or the Church of the Holy Ghost (both open Monday to Saturday). Vegan condiments and sides are plentiful here – we’re opting for spiced ketchup and stewed kale.

For more vegan-friendly local treats, pick up bread and pastries – such as the beloved kanelsnegl (cinnamon rolls) – from Det Rene Brød. Serving hungry locals since 1988, this bakery now has six locations across the city. Head to its Frederiksberg café for an excellent vegetarian or vegan brunch.

Alternatively, discover the Danish passion for porridge at Grød. Since opening the world’s first porridge bar in a basement cellar almost 10 years ago, school friends and oat enthusiasts Martin Daniali and Lasse Skjønning Andersen now have outlets all over the country. Not into porridge? Try the spiced lentil curries and creamy barley risottos.

Enjoy healthy, plant-based fare

Putting delicious, nutritious food front and centre, chef Neel Engholm and athlete Casper Bilton launched Plant Power Food to demonstrate just how versatile a vegan diet can be, while striving to be a zero-waste restaurant. Situated in the hip Nørrebro neighbourhood, it has quickly become the go-to place for gluten-free pancakes, hearty soups and tasty tapas, which you can wash down with a turmeric and matcha latte, homemade soft drink or creative mocktail.

There’s more culinary creativity to be found at The Organic Boho in Copenhagen’s delicious Torvehallerne food hall, where açai bowls, raw cacao smoothies and superfood iced teas channel a tropical vibe. Eco-conscious travellers will be pleased to read that takeaway meals are served in biodegradable packaging. Its second venue in Christianshavn is just another excuse to check out the city’s alternative Freetown Christiania community. Got time to spare? Read our guide to the perfect two-day Copenhagen trip.

Discover versatile vegan menus

Copenhagen’s newest street-food market – Baron Boltens Gård – is home to one of the city’s best vegan burgers. Order a Beyond Burger at Two Monkeys with a side of crispy plantain chips and sweet potato fries and see/taste for yourself what all the fuss is about. Meanwhile, the organic, vegan and gluten-free food served at Souls promises a meat-free feast featuring homemade seitan ‘bacon’, tempura ‘parmesan’ chips and scrambled tofu with truffle. Encouraging diners to “eat like you give a fork”, the team here is committed to sustainability and, because it’s run by a couple of Australians, you’re sure to be served a stellar latte (with almond milk, of course).

As Denmark’s first vegan Italian restaurant, MADEINITALY serves perfect pasta and pizzas with plant-based cheeses. Grab a table at this welcoming Nyhavn-harbour restaurant and finish off your evening with a creamy tiramisu. On the subject of non-dairy desserts, grab a few scoops of Nicecream’s coconut-milk-based ice cream; we’re particularly partial to the coffee, mint and peanut butter flavours. The sundaes and popsicles are not to be missed, either. To avoid food ending up in landfill, the team at Banana takes overripe fruit and turns it into delicious sugar-free ices. Its super-Instagrammable soft serves are topped with toasted coconut, organic blueberries or cherry syrup.

Savour Michelin-starred vegan menus

When it comes to fine dining, vegans (and non-vegans, for that matter) should visit the French-inspired Formel B and rustic neighbourhood restaurant Kokkeriet – both of which hold a Michelin star and serve vegetarian and vegan versions of their acclaimed tasting menus. If your new year’s resolution was to cut back on the booze, Kokkeriet also serves each course with a juice pairing. Of course, no round-up of Copenhagen menus would be complete without two-Michelin-starred Noma, which serves a vegan tasting menu during summer months. Expect freshly foraged ingredients and picture-perfect presentation (and a few months' wait to get a table).