Den Lille Kro
Authentic Danish comfort food in a timeless neighbourhood setting, where tradition meets quality ingredients.
Den Lille Kro is a beloved traditional Danish restaurant in central Aarhus, serving authentic homemade cuisine in a cosy, old-fashioned setting. Located at the corner of Nørre Allé and Grønnegade, this family-run establishment specializes in classic Danish dishes including smørrebrød, stegt flæsk, tarteletter, and stjerneskud. The kitchen sources fresh, quality ingredients and prepares everything from scratch, offering lunch menus with multiple courses, à la carte options, and seasonal dinner menus. An extensive selection of Danish craft beers complements the traditional fare.
A brief summary to Den Lille Kro
- Nørre Allé 55, Aarhus C, Aarhus C, 8000, DK
- +4586864441
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11:30 am-9:30 pm
- Tuesday 11:30 am-9:30 pm
- Wednesday 11:30 am-9:30 pm
- Thursday 11:30 am-9:30 pm
- Friday 11:30 am-9:30 pm
- Saturday 11:30 am-9:30 pm
- Sunday 11:30 am-9:30 pm
Local tips
- Book ahead for dinner service, particularly on weekends and during seasonal celebrations like Christmas and Easter, as the intimate space fills quickly with both locals and visitors.
- Explore the beer menu with staff guidance—the curated pairings with multi-course menus enhance the traditional Danish dining experience and showcase local craft breweries.
- Visit during lunch for exceptional value; the three-course menu offers generous portions of classic smørrebrød and hot dishes at moderate prices, making it ideal for a casual midday experience.
- Try signature dishes like stjerneskud (plaice with shrimp and salmon) or stegt flæsk (crispy pork belly) to experience the restaurant's mastery of traditional Danish cuisine prepared with modern ingredient quality.
- Check for seasonal menus and special events; the restaurant's participation in Dining Week and seasonal celebrations offers opportunities to experience curated multi-course menus at fixed prices.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
Den Lille Kro location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Den Lille Kro
A Timeless Danish Institution in the Heart of Aarhus
Den Lille Kro occupies a corner location on Nørre Allé in central Aarhus, presenting itself as a genuine neighbourhood restaurant that has preserved the character of a traditional Danish country inn—or kro—despite its urban setting. The establishment is part of Smag & Slægt, a family-run hospitality company that operates several acclaimed restaurants across Aarhus. What distinguishes Den Lille Kro is its unwavering commitment to serving food that could have been prepared four decades ago, yet executed with modern respect for ingredient quality and culinary technique. The restaurant's philosophy centres on simplicity, authenticity, and generosity. Every dish is prepared from scratch using fresh, carefully selected produce. The menu reflects the seasons, with the kitchen adapting offerings based on what is available at any given time. This approach ensures that diners experience food that tastes genuinely homemade rather than standardized, creating an experience rooted in Danish culinary tradition rather than contemporary trends.The Lunch Experience: Smørrebrød and Multi-Course Menus
Lunch service showcases Den Lille Kro's versatility. The restaurant offers a popular three-course lunch menu featuring traditional Danish open-faced sandwiches and hot dishes, priced competitively to encourage regular patronage. The smørrebrød selection is extensive, featuring combinations such as warm smoked salmon with rye bread chips, radishes and dill; tuna mousse with shrimp, roe and lemon; and roasted beef served with remoulade, pickles, fried onions, horseradish and watercress. Hot lunch options include lightly salted pork belly with potatoes, parsley sauce, pickled beetroot and cucumber salad; potato bread with pickled red onion, fried onion and mayonnaise; and tartlets filled with chicken, asparagus, tomato and cress. For those seeking a more substantial midday experience, the restaurant offers larger tartlets and seafood options. The prawn cocktail arrives with asparagus, salad, dressing, dill and bread, while the signature stjerneskud—a showpiece dish featuring two fried plaice fillets topped with salmon rillette, plaice soufflé, hand-peeled shrimp, dressing, roe, dill and lemon—represents the pinnacle of Danish seafood tradition.Evening Dining: Seasonal Menus and À la Carte Classics
Dinner service transforms the restaurant into a more formal setting while maintaining its relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere. The kitchen offers multi-course tasting menus composed around seasonal ingredients, typically available in two, three, or four-course configurations. À la carte selections feature beloved Danish classics: stegt flæsk (crispy pork belly), pariserbøf (beef tartare), and the restaurant's signature beef sandwich—a substantial 250-gram creation that has become a signature item. Roasted beef, veal schnitzels, and chicken salad round out the protein offerings, each prepared with traditional accompaniments that honour Danish culinary conventions. The kitchen's approach to these familiar dishes involves respecting historical preparation methods while incorporating superior ingredients available today. This balance between nostalgia and quality ensures that even well-known dishes feel both comforting and refined.Beverages: Danish Craft Beer and Curated Pairings
The beverage programme reflects Den Lille Kro's commitment to Danish authenticity. The beer selection is notably comprehensive, featuring craft offerings from local and regional breweries including Aarhus Bryghus, Syndikatet, Jacobsen, Carlsberg, Skanderborg Bryghus, and Mikkeller. The restaurant has developed specific beer pairings for its tasting menus, allowing diners to explore how Danish craft beers complement traditional cuisine. Wine and soft beverages are also available, though beer remains the natural choice for the traditional Danish meal experience the restaurant celebrates.Atmosphere and Setting: Authenticity Without Pretension
The interior design deliberately evokes a country inn aesthetic, with décor and furnishings that suggest a space where time has moved slowly. This is not a restaurant attempting to recreate historical atmosphere through theatrical design; rather, it feels like a genuine establishment that has maintained its character across generations. The cosy, intimate setting encourages lingering conversations and shared meals, making it equally suitable for casual lunch, family gatherings, or special occasions celebrated in traditional style. The restaurant's location at a prominent corner in Aarhus's city centre makes it easily accessible while maintaining a neighbourhood feel. Service is attentive and knowledgeable without being intrusive, with staff who understand the dishes they serve and can guide diners through menu selections and beer pairings.Seasonal Celebrations and Special Menus
Beyond regular service, Den Lille Kro participates in seasonal dining events and festivals. The restaurant offers traditional Danish Christmas lunch menus featuring flæskesteg (roast pork), fish, smoked salmon, and other festive specialities, available in configurations of eight, ten, or twelve courses. Easter menus similarly celebrate seasonal ingredients and traditional preparations. The restaurant also participates in Dining Week, the Nordic restaurant festival held twice yearly, offering fixed-price menus that introduce new diners to its approach.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden
0.7 km
Explore contemporary art at Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden, Aarhus' premier gallery showcasing local and international talent.
Aarhus waterfront
0.8 km
Aarhus Waterfront blends urban vibrancy, Nordic design, and harbor heritage with panoramic sea views and lively promenades, making it a quintessential Danish experience.
Endless Connection
0.8 km
Experience the dynamic interplay of art and water at Aarhus's Endless Connection, an interactive fountain by Jeppe Hein.
Botanical Garden
0.8 km
Experience Denmark's artistic heritage and international masterpieces at SMK, Copenhagen's dynamic national gallery housed in landmark architecture beside the Kings’ Garden.
Rådhusparken
0.9 km
An elegant city park at Aarhus’ core, Rådhusparken blends iconic architecture, sculptures, and tranquil green spaces right beside the city hall.
Den Svangre
0.9 km
A bronze sculpture celebrating the female form in Aarhus's cultural heart.
Agnete og Havmanden
0.9 km
Discover the poetic fusion of Danish folklore and modern sculpture at Aarhus’ Agnete og Havmanden, a landmark bronze fountain embodying myth and emotion.
Folkehuset Trøjborg
1.1 km
Folkehuset Trøjborg blends Danish hygge, vibrant community life, and affordable culture, making it a beloved gathering place in the heart of Aarhus’ Trøjborg district.
University Park, Aarhus
1.1 km
Explore seven centuries of art at SMK – Denmark’s national gallery, marrying old masters, modern pioneers, and cutting-edge exhibitions in stunning parkland surroundings.
Frederiks Plads
1.2 km
A vibrant, contemporary city square where modern architecture, open green space, and urban life converge in the heart of Aarhus near Frederiksbjerg.
Nordisk Film Cinemas Trøjborg
1.5 km
Experience local Danish cinema culture at Nordisk Film Cinemas Trøjborg—an atmospheric neighborhood movie house blending modern comfort with classic charm in Aarhus.
Trøjborg Beboerhus
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant community spirit of Aarhus at Trøjborg Beboerhus, a hub for cultural events, workshops, and local gatherings.
Udsigtspladsen
1.8 km
Experience breathtaking city, harbor, and bay vistas from one of Aarhus C’s most beloved scenic viewpoints, perfect for relaxation and panoramic photography.
Tivoli Friheden
2.5 km
Experience the thrill and magic of Tivoli Friheden, Aarhus' premier amusement park with rides, live music, and family-friendly fun for all ages.
Flagpladsen
3.3 km
Historic plaza overlooking Aarhus Bay, gateway to royal heritage and astronomical discovery.
Unmissable attractions to see
Klostertorvet
0.3 km
Intimate cobbled square in central Aarhus where monastic history, café life and city shopping streets meet in a relaxed, atmospheric urban pocket.
Ismael
0.3 km
A poised bronze boy with bow and arrow brings quiet drama and historic artistry to the intimate city square of Klostertorvet in central Aarhus.
Mindrebæltsbroen
0.3 km
Royal residence on Aarhus Bay with historic gardens, open parkland, classic Danish architecture, and the chance to witness the royal guard—all amidst city green space.
Møllestien
0.3 km
Pastel cottages, cobbled stones and climbing roses – a tiny historic lane where centuries of Aarhus history live behind colourful facades.
Aarhus Culture Walk
0.3 km
Discover Aarhus' oldest neighborhood, Latinerkvarteret, where historic charm meets modern culture in a vibrant blend of cafés, boutiques, and artistic venues.
Mølleparken
0.4 km
Compact yet characterful, Mølleparken is Aarhus’ riverside green room, blending mill-town history, public art, student life and festival energy in one urban pocket.
Lille Torv
0.4 km
Aarhus Waterfront: a vibrant coastal promenade fusing striking modern architecture, rich maritime heritage, and lively urban culture along the city’s scenic bay.
Vadestedet
0.4 km
Historic river crossing turned vibrant canal-side strip, Vadestedet blends cafés, bars and bridges into Aarhus’ cosiest, most atmospheric urban meeting place.
Store Torv
0.4 km
Centuries-old Store Torv is Aarhus’ historic main square, where cathedral spires, grand facades and pedestrian street life converge in a lively urban living room.
Museumsbroen
0.5 km
Historic hilltop observatory in Aarhus offering hands-on astronomy, guided stargazing, and a unique glimpse into Denmark’s pioneering scientific past.
Kunsthal Aarhus
0.5 km
Free contemporary art in a light-filled modernist space, showcasing international and Danish artists since 1917.
Flodhestefontæne
0.5 km
Aarhus waterfront fuses cutting-edge architecture, vibrant public spaces, and breathtaking bay views, offering an essential experience at the heart of Denmark's dynamic cityscape.
Flodhesteungen Frederikke
0.5 km
A small granite hippo resting in the middle of Frederiksgade, Flodhesteungen Frederikke adds a playful, tactile pause to the busy streets of central Aarhus.
History Hunts med Hvem.nu
0.5 km
Hands-on history hunts in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, where Viking traces and town stories turn into clue-driven adventures for curious families and small groups.
Møllen i botanisk have Århus
0.5 km
Urban beach escape south of Aarhus city center, offering clean sands, gentle waters, and year-round access beside forest and royal palace grounds.
Essential places to dine
Den Lille Kro
0.0 km
Authentic Danish comfort food in a timeless neighbourhood setting, where tradition meets quality ingredients.
Gastro & Vino
0.1 km
Discover exquisite Danish cuisine and thoughtfully paired wines in an intimate, backyard setting at Gastro & Vino, one of Aarhus’s most celebrated culinary gems.
Møf
0.2 km
Inventive new Nordic cuisine, inspired by local ingredients, served in a lively and intimate setting in central Aarhus.
Restaurant Amalfi
0.2 km
Authentic Italian pasta and pizza in central Aarhus, where skilled cooking and warm service meet reasonable prices.
AmoRomA
0.2 km
Neighbourhood-style Italian restaurant in central Aarhus serving generous pizzas and pastas in a cosy, candlelit room on lively Vestergade.
Lupo
0.2 km
Big‑hearted Italian dining on Frue Kirkeplads, where homemade pasta, good wine and a lively, sociable room turn an evening in central Aarhus into its own celebration.
Keyser Social
0.3 km
Creative Asian–Nordic social dining in the heart of Aarhus, where multi-course sharing menus, refined cocktails and warm urban design turn dinner into an evening-long experience.
Lydmar Restaurang
0.3 km
Intimate, modern dining on lively Vestergade in the heart of Aarhus C, pairing relaxed Scandinavian ambience with simple, well-crafted seasonal dishes.
Faour
0.3 km
Authentic Palestinian falafel and mezze in a cozy Aarhus hideaway—budget-friendly, vegetarian-focused, and genuinely delicious.
Langhoff & Juul
0.4 km
Nordic-inspired, organic dining in Aarhus’ historic Latin Quarter, with a focus on sustainability, seasonal menus, atmospheric interiors, and local flair.
Bernth & co
0.4 km
Artisanal restaurant blending heritage craftsmanship with contemporary Nordic cuisine in central Aarhus
Restaurant Komfur
0.4 km
Restaurant Komfur in Aarhus offers modern Danish cuisine in a stylish yet comforting space, celebrated for creative menus, vibrant atmosphere, and local culinary flair.
Kolo
0.4 km
Urban kolonihave vibes, reimagined kebab and vegetable-led plates, and natural wines on tap in one of Aarhus’ most inviting city-centre dining rooms.
Bardok
0.4 km
Discover Bardok in Aarhus—a contemporary small-plates restaurant known for inventive cuisine, social dining, and a lively riverside atmosphere in the city center.
Carlton
0.4 km
A central Aarhus brasserie-style restaurant and bar where polished plates, a strong wine list and warm lighting create an intimate, grown‑up city evening.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
1 + 1 Textil & Design
0.2 km
Intimate Aarhus boutique showcasing handpicked Danish ceramics, textiles and jewellery, curated by textile designer Helene Vonsild in atmospheric Grønnegade.
Darling Inspire
0.2 km
Intimate Aarhus clothing boutique in the Latin Quarter, where Danish design, slow fashion and a calm studio-like atmosphere invite unhurried browsing.
Vintage Divine
0.2 km
Authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s–1970s, expertly curated and restored in central Aarhus.
RAINS Store Aarhus
0.3 km
A sculptural, minimalist flagship where Danish rainwear design meets gallery-like interiors in the heart of Aarhus’ main shopping district.
Hørlyck Aarhus
0.3 km
Intimate shoe and fashion boutique on atmospheric Vestergade, blending Scandinavian elegance with curated footwear, clothing and a relaxed Aarhus city-centre vibe.
Røde Kors Butik Krydsfelt
0.3 km
Curated Red Cross thrift in central Aarhus, where unique second-hand fashion, long-hours self-service and a social mission turn browsing into feel-good shopping.
Blue Caviar
0.3 km
Curated fashion boutique in Aarhus city center offering distinctive clothing and contemporary design pieces.
& Other Stories
0.3 km
A bright Scandinavian fashion playground in central Aarhus, blending ready-to-wear, shoes, accessories and beauty into one polished, design-led women’s wardrobe.
Collage the Shop Mens Aarhus
0.3 km
Polished menswear boutique on historic Lille Torv, pairing curated designer labels with minimalist interior design and attentive, style-focused service.
Collage the Shop Womens Aarhus
0.3 km
Minimalist luxury boutique showcasing curated women's accessories in a beautifully designed historic space.
So ein Ding - Vintage
0.3 km
Small basement vintage shop in central Aarhus with Berlin–New York inspired second-hand fashion, retro 70s flair and handpicked, affordable pieces for men and women.
S.T. Valentin
0.4 km
Contemporary menswear boutique in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, blending Scandinavian simplicity, quality footwear and attentive styling in an intimate setting.
Fair Trade Shop Bazaar
0.4 km
Volunteer-run fair trade shop in central Aarhus, filled with handcrafted textiles, gifts and homeware that support artisans and development projects worldwide.
Monki
0.4 km
Bold, playful Scandinavian fashion on one of Aarhus’ cosiest shopping streets, mixing expressive statement pieces with easy everyday staples.
Weekday
0.4 km
Urban Scandinavian streetwear in a minimalist boutique, bringing Weekday’s clean-cut style and denim-focused collections to Aarhus’ atmospheric Guldsmedgade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
S'vinbar
0.2 km
Intimate Aarhus wine bar where more than 300 carefully chosen bottles, sunlit pavement tables and relaxed expertise turn Klostergade into a cosy vinous living room.
Vesterlauget
0.2 km
Cozy madbodega on Vestergade serving simple Danish comfort food, strong coffee and great beer in a relaxed, communal bar-restaurant setting.
V58
0.2 km
Courtyard-hideaway bar and music spot in central Aarhus, blending crafted cocktails, Mediterranean flavours and intimate live performances late into the night.
Mundhæld
0.2 km
Discover the charm of Mundhæld, a cozy bar in Aarhus offering a delightful selection of craft beers and a unique ambiance for every traveler.
Heidi's Bier Bar Aarhus
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Heidi's Bier Bar Aarhus, featuring a diverse selection of beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Hjorten
0.3 km
Discover the heart of Aarhus nightlife at Hjorten, a lively bodega with local brews and a vibrant atmosphere for all visitors.
Fairbar
0.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of bar and cafe culture at Fairbar in Aarhus, offering a cozy ambiance and a diverse drink menu.
Hornsleth Bar Aarhus
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Hornsleth Bar Aarhus, a premier destination for cocktails and dancing in the heart of the city.
Two Socks Ginbar
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting ambiance of Two Socks Ginbar, a haven for gin lovers in the heart of Aarhus, Denmark, where expert mixology meets local charm.
Annalise's Bar
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Annalise's Bar, where cozy ambiance meets creative cocktails and friendly service.
PV (Pustervig) - Kaffe & Cocktails
0.4 km
Cosy central Aarhus hideaway where daytime coffee culture flows seamlessly into a warm, late-night world of candles, chatter and creative cocktails.
Waxies
0.5 km
Lively Irish pub and sports bar in central Aarhus, blending cosy wood‑panelled charm with live music, games and big‑screen sports late into the night.
Oops - Bar, lounge og Rombar i Århus
0.5 km
Discover Oops Bar in Aarhus - a vibrant cocktail haven blending style and comfort with an exquisite drink menu and light bites.
Bar Smil Aarhus
0.5 km
Loud beats, cheap drinks and late-night energy in a compact bar-club right in the centre of Aarhus’ historic heart.
Alberts - Cocktailbar i Aarhus
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Alberts Cocktail Bar in Aarhus, featuring innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Relaxing
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
