Copenhagen is a city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, and nowhere is this more evident than in its vibrant food scene. While the city is known for its cutting-edge Nordic cuisine, it also boasts a rich tradition of baking that has delighted locals and visitors alike for centuries. From classic Danish pastries to innovative new confections, Copenhagen’s bakeries and pastry shops are a haven for anyone with a sweet tooth.
1. Lagkagehuset (Ole & Steen) – The Modern Classic
If there’s one name synonymous with Danish pastries in Copenhagen, it’s Lagkagehuset. Known internationally as Ole & Steen, this chain of bakeries has become a staple in the city, combining traditional Danish baking with a contemporary twist. Lagkagehuset’s popularity is well-deserved, and it’s often the first stop for both locals and tourists looking to sample some of Denmark’s most beloved baked goods.
Location and Ambiance:
With numerous locations throughout Copenhagen, you’re never far from a Lagkagehuset. Each bakery is designed with a sleek, modern interior that’s both inviting and functional, making it a great place to grab a quick pastry or enjoy a leisurely coffee.
Must-Try Pastries:
- Spandauer: This classic Danish pastry, often known as a “Danish” abroad, is a must-try. It’s a puff pastry filled with custard or jam and topped with icing, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and flakiness.
- Kanelsnegl: A cinnamon roll, but with a Danish twist. The Kanelsnegl is rich, buttery, and generously spiced with cinnamon, making it an irresistible treat.
- Wienerbrød: Similar to the spandauer but with more layers, this pastry is a true testament to the art of Danish baking. Try it with a variety of fillings, from chocolate to marzipan.
What Makes It Special:
Lagkagehuset manages to strike the perfect balance between tradition and innovation. While they offer all the classic Danish pastries, they also introduce seasonal and unique items that keep locals coming back for more. The quality of the ingredients and the skill of the bakers are evident in every bite.
2. Andersen Bakery – A Taste of Japan in Copenhagen
Andersen Bakery might surprise you with its Japanese roots, but it’s a beloved institution in Copenhagen. Founded by Shunsuke Takaki, a Japanese baker who fell in love with Danish pastries, Andersen Bakery brings a unique fusion of Japanese precision and Danish tradition to the table.
Location and Ambiance:
Situated near Tivoli Gardens, Andersen Bakery offers a serene and minimalist setting, much like you would expect from a Japanese-inspired space. It’s a calm spot to enjoy a pastry before or after a visit to the bustling city center.
Must-Try Pastries:
- Matcha Danish: This pastry combines the flakiness of Danish wienerbrød with the distinctive, earthy flavor of matcha. It’s a perfect example of how Andersen Bakery blends Japanese and Danish traditions.
- Kouign-Amann: A Breton pastry that’s a bit of an outsider in Denmark, but Andersen’s version is not to be missed. It’s a caramelized, buttery delight that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
- Danish Custard Bun: This is a Japanese take on a Danish classic, with a custard filling that’s slightly less sweet but incredibly smooth and satisfying.
What Makes It Special:
Andersen Bakery stands out for its ability to marry two distinct culinary traditions. The result is a selection of pastries that are familiar yet intriguing, offering a fresh take on Copenhagen’s bakery scene. The meticulous attention to detail, both in flavor and presentation, makes it a must-visit for anyone interested in the intersection of different cultures through food.
3. Skt. Peders Bageri – The Oldest Bakery in Copenhagen
For a true taste of history, there’s no better place to visit than Skt. Peders Bageri, the oldest bakery in Copenhagen. Established in 1652, this bakery has been serving the people of Copenhagen for centuries and is still going strong. Skt. Peders Bageri is a testament to the timeless appeal of traditional Danish baking.
Location and Ambiance:
Located in the heart of the Latin Quarter, Skt. Peders Bageri is a charming and unpretentious spot. The bakery retains much of its old-world charm, with rustic wooden shelves, the aroma of fresh bread filling the air, and a cozy, neighborhood atmosphere.
Must-Try Pastries:
- Onsdagssnegle: Every Wednesday, Skt. Peders Bageri offers their famous “Wednesday Snails,” a giant cinnamon roll that draws locals and tourists alike. Soft, sweet, and sticky, it’s worth timing your visit to snag one of these.
- Rugbrød: While technically a bread, the Danish rye bread from Skt. Peders Bageri is legendary. Dense, slightly sour, and packed with seeds, it’s a Danish staple that pairs perfectly with butter or cheese.
- Frøsnapper: A twisted pastry filled with remonce (a sweet butter filling) and sprinkled with poppy seeds. It’s both crunchy and soft, making it a delightful treat at any time of day.
What Makes It Special:
The sense of history and tradition at Skt. Peders Bageri is palpable. This bakery has survived for centuries by staying true to its roots, offering classic Danish pastries that are made with care and respect for tradition. It’s a place where you can truly taste the heritage of Copenhagen in every bite.
4. Juno the Bakery – The Artisanal Darling
In a city filled with excellent bakeries, Juno the Bakery has quickly risen to fame since its opening. Founded by Emil Glaser, a former Noma pastry chef, Juno is an artisanal bakery that has captured the hearts of Copenhageners with its focus on quality, craftsmanship, and simplicity.
Location and Ambiance:
Juno the Bakery is located in the Østerbro district, in a quaint, residential area. The bakery itself is small and often crowded, with lines frequently spilling out onto the street. Despite the wait, the ambiance is friendly and welcoming, with the staff always eager to share their passion for baking.
Must-Try Pastries:
- Cardamom Bun: Perhaps Juno’s most famous pastry, the cardamom bun is a work of art. Soft, fragrant, and delicately spiced, it’s a perfect example of how simplicity can lead to perfection.
- Croissant: Juno’s croissants are a revelation. Buttery, flaky, and perfectly golden, they rival some of the best croissants in Paris.
- Almond Cake: A moist and rich cake that’s topped with a generous layer of toasted almonds. It’s a simple yet indulgent treat that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee.
What Makes It Special:
Juno the Bakery’s commitment to quality and artisanal techniques sets it apart from the competition. Each pastry is made with the utmost care, using the best ingredients available. The result is a selection of baked goods that are not only delicious but also embody the essence of craftsmanship. Juno’s popularity is a testament to the fact that in a city full of great bakeries, excellence still stands out.
5. Hart Bageri – The New Wave of Danish Baking
Hart Bageri is one of the newer additions to Copenhagen’s bakery scene, but it has quickly established itself as a must-visit for anyone serious about pastries. Founded by Richard Hart, a former head baker at Tartine in San Francisco, Hart Bageri brings a fresh perspective to traditional Danish baking, blending influences from around the world.
Location and Ambiance:
Located in the Frederiksberg neighborhood, Hart Bageri is sleek and modern, with a minimalist design that reflects its focus on the product. The bakery is often bustling, with locals and visitors lining up for a taste of Hart’s creations.
Must-Try Pastries:
- Lemon Tart: A perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, with a buttery crust that crumbles just right. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the more traditional pastries.
- Kardemommesnurrer: A cardamom swirl that’s a bit more robust and complex than the usual cardamom bun. The layers are meticulously crafted, offering a perfect texture with each bite.
- Sourdough Bread: While not a pastry, Hart’s sourdough is worth mentioning. The bread is tangy, chewy, and has a perfect crust—ideal for breakfast or sandwiches.
What Makes It Special:
Hart Bageri represents the new wave of Danish baking, where tradition meets innovation. Richard Hart’s background in international baking is evident in the variety and creativity of the offerings. At Hart Bageri, you’ll find familiar flavors presented in new and exciting ways, making it a bakery that’s both comforting and surprising.
Copenhagen’s bakery scene is a treasure trove for anyone with a sweet tooth. Whether you’re indulging in a classic Danish pastry at Lagkagehuset, experiencing the fusion of Japanese and Danish traditions at Andersen Bakery, or discovering the new wave of artisanal baking at Juno or Hart Bageri, there’s something for every palate. Each bakery offers a unique take on the art of baking, reflecting the rich culinary heritage and innovative spirit of Copenhagen.