OliNico Gastro Grillbar, Aarhus
Cozy Aarhus gastro grillbar on Mejlgade, serving generous modern European comfort food, daily changing menus and bistro classics at pleasantly low prices.
Tucked into the cobbled Mejlgade in Aarhus C, OliNico is a compact gastro grillbar known for generous plates of modern European comfort food at friendly prices. Inside, an open kitchen, blackboard menus and self-service drinks coolers keep things casual, while a daily changing three-course menu, alongside staples like moules frites and fish ’n’ chips, delivers bistro-level flavour. It’s as popular for quick weekday lunches as for relaxed, no-fuss dinners or takeaway picnics in the city.
A brief summary to OliNico
- Mejlgade 35, Aarhus, Aarhus C, 8000, DK
- +4586250570
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11:30 am-2 pm
- Tuesday 11:30 am-2 pm
- Wednesday 11:30 am-2 pm
- Thursday 11:30 am-2 pm
- Friday 11:30 am-2 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-2 pm
- Sunday 5:30 pm-9 pm
Local tips
- Aim for the start of lunch or the 17:30 evening opening if you want a table; the small dining room fills fast and there are no reservations.
- Check the blackboard for the daily three‑course menu, which usually offers the best value if you are hungry.
- If seating is tight, order takeaway and enjoy your meal in one of central Aarhus’ nearby squares or green spaces.
- The concept is self‑service: you order at the counter and collect drinks and cutlery yourself, so keep an eye on the counter when your food is ready.
- At busy times, card payment is much quicker than cash and helps keep the line moving smoothly.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
OliNico location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about OliNico
A Small Aarhus Bistro with Big Flavours
OliNico sits on atmospheric Mejlgade, one of the older streets in central Aarhus, and feels immediately lived‑in and local. The space is small and informal, with around twenty or so seats, an open kitchen at the back and handwritten menus on chalkboards setting the tone. There is no white-tablecloth formality here; instead you walk up to the counter, check the day’s offerings and order before finding a table. The heart of the concept is simple, modern European cooking at prices that make a proper sit‑down meal accessible on a student budget. Portions tend to be hearty, plating is unfussy, and the focus is on flavour rather than frills. It works just as well as a quick solo bite as it does for a relaxed catch‑up over a bottle of wine.Daily Menus and Signature Comfort Dishes
OliNico’s blackboard menu changes from day to day, built around fresh, seasonal produce and slow‑cooked, deeply flavoured dishes. A three‑course daily menu typically offers a light starter, a substantial main and a dessert, all designed to feel like home cooking with a chef’s touch. This set menu is a particular draw for those wanting a full meal without worrying about the bill. Alongside the changing dishes, a few classics rarely disappear. Moules frites, with steaming bowls of mussels and a pile of crispy fries, and fish ’n’ chips are staple choices, bridging French, Belgian and British bistro traditions. Expect other European‑leaning plates too, from braised meats and roasted vegetables to rich sauces that make good use of fresh herbs and stock.Self-Service Charm and Easygoing Atmosphere
The experience at OliNico is deliberately streamlined. You order at the counter, grab your own cutlery, water and drinks from the coolers, and bus your table at the end. This self‑service approach keeps things casual and helps maintain the wallet‑friendly prices. It also gives the room a relaxed, slightly canteen‑like buzz, especially at peak lunch and early‑evening hours. The décor leans toward clean, modern lines softened by warm lighting and the constant motion of the open kitchen. You can often watch pans flashing over flames and plates being assembled a few metres away, which adds to the sense of being in a working, everyday city kitchen rather than a staged dining room.Lunch Rushes, Evening Lines and Takeaway Boxes
With limited seating, OliNico can feel lively when office workers and students descend for the midday lunch window, and again when doors reopen in the early evening. The rhythm of the day is shaped by these two service waves, with a quieter lull in between. Arriving early for either slot is sensible if you want to dine in without waiting. Takeaway is an important part of the operation. Meals are boxed efficiently and travel well, whether you are heading back to a nearby hotel or planning an informal picnic on one of Aarhus’ squares or green pockets. For some, the appeal is precisely this: restaurant‑quality comfort food that can be enjoyed wherever the day’s plans take you.Neighbourhood Context and Who It Suits
Mejlgade itself is a narrow, characterful street lined with small shops, bars and eateries, making OliNico easy to combine with a broader wander through the historic centre. The restaurant fits neatly into this setting as a no‑nonsense, good‑value stop that feels firmly rooted in the local everyday rather than in special‑occasion dining. OliNico particularly suits budget‑conscious travellers, city explorers and anyone who enjoys unfussy European dishes done well. It works for couples, friends and solo diners alike, and the straightforward format makes it a convenient option between museum visits or after an afternoon by the harbour.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Folkehuset Trøjborg
0.9 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.
Agnete og Havmanden
1.0 km
Discover the poetic fusion of Danish folklore and modern sculpture at Aarhus’ Agnete og Havmanden, a landmark bronze fountain embodying myth and emotion.
Den Svangre
1.0 km
A bronze sculpture celebrating the female form in Aarhus's cultural heart.
Frederiks Plads
1.1 km
A vibrant, contemporary city square where modern architecture, open green space, and urban life converge in the heart of Aarhus near Frederiksbjerg.
Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden
1.1 km
Explore contemporary art at Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden, Aarhus' premier gallery showcasing local and international talent.
The Old Town
1.1 km
Experience Danish urban life through the ages at The Old Town in Aarhus, an immersive open-air museum showcasing historical buildings and authentic cultural experiences from the 16th to 20th centuries.
Greenhouses in the Botanical Garden
1.2 km
Step into a vibrant world of exotic plants, interactive exhibits, and striking glass architecture at Aarhus's Greenhouses—a serene escape for nature lovers.
University Park, Aarhus
1.2 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.
Nordisk Film Cinemas Trøjborg
1.3 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
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant community spirit of Aarhus at Trøjborg Beboerhus, a hub for cultural events, workshops, and local gatherings.
Udsigtspladsen
1.4 km
Experience breathtaking city, harbor, and bay vistas from one of Aarhus C’s most beloved scenic viewpoints, perfect for relaxation and panoramic photography.
Botanical Garden
1.4 km
Experience Denmark's artistic heritage and international masterpieces at SMK, Copenhagen's dynamic national gallery housed in landmark architecture beside the Kings’ Garden.
Tivoli Friheden
2.6 km
Experience the thrill and magic of Tivoli Friheden, Aarhus' premier amusement park with rides, live music, and family-friendly fun for all ages.
Marselisborgmonumentet
3.2 km
Standing tall in Mindeparken, Marselisborgmonumentet honors Danish World War I volunteers with solemn beauty, monumental sculpture, and panoramic bay views near Aarhus.
Flagpladsen
3.3 km
Historic plaza overlooking Aarhus Bay, gateway to royal heritage and astronomical discovery.
Unmissable attractions to see
Latin Quarter
0.1 km
Aarhus’ Latin Quarter blends cobbled medieval streets, historic townhouses and bike-friendly lanes with creative cafés, boutiques and boundary-pushing Nordic dining.
The Occupation Museum
0.2 km
Aarhus’ former Gestapo headquarters turned museum, where original cells, local stories and moral dilemmas bring Denmark’s wartime occupation chillingly close.
KØN - Gender Museum Denmark
0.2 km
One of the world's few museums exploring gender, equality, and sexuality through history and contemporary dialogue.
History Hunts med Hvem.nu
0.2 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.
Aarhus waterfront
0.2 km
Aarhus waterfront blends bold Scandinavian architecture, city beaches, harborside culture, and urban relaxation along the picturesque shores of Denmark’s vibrant second city.
Herman Sallings Plads
0.2 km
Marselisborg Castle offers royal heritage, tranquil gardens, and public art in Aarhus—a unique glimpse into Danish monarchy, all set within lush, accessible parklands.
Aarhus Cathedral
0.2 km
Aarhus Cathedral—Denmark’s tallest and longest church, home to medieval frescoes and ornate altarpiece, anchors the city’s vibrant heart with Gothic grace.
Store Torv
0.3 km
Historic Great Square where cathedral spires, elegant façades and everyday city life come together in the pedestrianized heart of Aarhus.
Endless Connection
0.3 km
Interactive spiral fountain on Aarhus’ harbourfront where jets of water, inspired by the city’s starry skies, become a playful urban artwork and gathering spot.
Bishop's Square
0.3 km
Marselisborg Castle offers royal heritage, tranquil English-style gardens, and the dramatic changing of the guard—an essential cultural and green escape south of Aarhus city center.
Viking Museum
0.3 km
Walk where Vikings founded Aarhus 1,200 years ago in this underground museum beneath the city center.
Aarhus Theatre
0.3 km
Art Nouveau splendour, golden auditoriums and four busy stages make Aarhus Theatre the historic heart of live performance in Denmark’s second-largest city.
Lille Torv
0.3 km
Aarhus Waterfront: a vibrant coastal promenade fusing striking modern architecture, rich maritime heritage, and lively urban culture along the city’s scenic bay.
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.
Ismael
0.4 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.
Essential places to dine
OliNico
0.0 km
Cozy Aarhus gastro grillbar on Mejlgade, serving generous modern European comfort food, daily changing menus and bistro classics at pleasantly low prices.
Sct. Oluf Restaurant
0.0 km
A vibrant French-inspired bistro offering creative cuisine and Danish hospitality in the artistic heart of Latinerkvarteret, Aarhus’ oldest and most atmospheric quarter.
Pihlkjær Restaurant
0.0 km
Experience exquisite modern Danish cuisine at Pihlkjær Restaurant in Aarhus – where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Restaurant Domestic
0.0 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine at Restaurant Domestic in Aarhus C - where innovation meets tradition for an unforgettable dining experience.
Den Rustikke
0.1 km
Discover Den Rustikke in Aarhus - where traditional Danish cuisine meets modern culinary artistry for an unforgettable dining experience.
Lecoq
0.1 km
French-inspired brasserie and bar bringing Southern European warmth, wine and late-night energy to Aarhus’ atmospheric Latin Quarter on Graven.
Plant Food
0.1 km
Small, cosy and completely plant-based, Plant Food serves bold umami burgers, bowls and sandwiches in the heart of Aarhus’ atmospheric Latin Quarter.
Slap Af
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Slap Af in Aarhus – where exquisite dishes meet expertly crafted cocktails.
Casablanca Aarhus
0.2 km
French‑style brasserie, famous brunch “Crunch” and cosy café‑bar atmosphere in the heart of Aarhus’ historic Latin Quarter.
Mefisto Restaurant & Gårdhave
0.2 km
Aarhus’ beloved seafood restaurant and garden, Mefisto, offers Scandinavian classics, atmospheric courtyard dining, and vibrant local flavor in the city’s oldest quarter.
L'estragon
0.2 km
L’estragon serves up refined French cuisine with Danish creativity in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, offering intimate ambiance, seasonal tasting menus, and top-tier wine pairing.
Gusto
0.2 km
Honest sourdough pizza, natural wines and warm, late-night buzz in the heart of Aarhus’ Latin Quarter.
Kolo
0.3 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.
Carlton
0.3 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.
Bernth & co
0.3 km
Artisanal restaurant blending heritage craftsmanship with contemporary Nordic cuisine in central Aarhus
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Loppegal
0.1 km
Curated secondhand fashion and interiors in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, where Danish design sensibility meets flea-market charm in a cosy, character-filled shop.
Jooma Aarhus
0.1 km
Discover unique Danish crafts and gifts at Jooma Aarhus, nestled in the historic Latinerkvarteret.
LAKOR Shop Aarhus
0.1 km
Flagship men’s clothing shop in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, blending Danish west coast vibes with graphic, coastal-inspired casual wear in an intimate, design-led space.
Badstue Rock
0.2 km
One of Denmark’s oldest independent record stores, Badstue Rock is a cozy Aarhus hub for vinyl, CDs, music books and unhurried crate-digging in the city center.
Munthe Market
0.2 km
Where timeless fashion finds new purpose through conscious curation and circular design.
& Vintage
0.2 km
A boutique in Aarhus' Latin Quarter offering hand-picked vintage treasures, Scandinavian gifts, artisan wares, and a warm, local shopping experience in a creative setting.
LÏST Store
0.2 km
A calm, curated women’s fashion boutique in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, blending Scandinavian simplicity, quality fabrics and timeless silhouettes on charming Volden.
Seramikku - Japandi Concept Store
0.2 km
A serene Japandi concept store in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, blending Japanese ceramics and Scandinavian design into a calm, tactile shopping experience.
stoy
0.2 km
Minimalist, design-led fashion hub on Aarhus’ main square, blending luxury labels and independent brands in a calm, curated retail space.
Sophies Tøjhus
0.3 km
A cosy central Aarhus boutique for colourful, Scandinavian‑inspired women’s fashion, perfect for a relaxed browse and a wardrobe refresh between city sights.
Balsalen
0.3 km
Atmospheric courtyard boutique in central Aarhus, where carefully curated interiors, lifestyle finds and Nordic design create a calm little universe behind Guldsmedgade.
Utzon
0.3 km
Independent Aarhus boutique where Scandinavian fashion, leather, fur, and design objects are curated into one coherent, softly luxurious universe of style.
Panduro Hobby
0.3 km
A colourful craft haven in the heart of Aarhus, packed with DIY supplies, creative kits and ideas for makers of all ages on atmospheric Badstuegade.
Ganni
0.3 km
Compact slice of Copenhagen-cool in Aarhus’ Guldsmedgade, where playful Scandi fashion, bold prints and clean Nordic interiors meet in a relaxed boutique setting.
PRAG
0.3 km
Colourful vintage fashion in the heart of Aarhus, where curated second-hand style meets relaxed, student-city energy on lively Nørregade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ris Ras Filliongongong
0.1 km
Candlelit basement bar on Aarhus’ Mejlgade, blending an extensive beer selection with bohemian, living-room coziness and easygoing late-night conversations.
El Loco
0.1 km
Discover El Loco, a vibrant bar in Aarhus, known for its lively atmosphere, affordable drinks, and unforgettable nightlife experience.
Mig og Ølsnedkeren
0.1 km
Experience the best of Aarhus's craft beer scene at Mig og Ølsnedkeren, where local and international brews await in a cozy atmosphere.
ÅBEN Aarhus
0.2 km
Contemporary craft beer, rotating taps and a relaxed neighborhood buzz in a minimalist taproom tucked into Aarhus’ historic Latin Quarter.
Café Under Masken
0.2 km
Bohemian, art‑lined den in central Aarhus where masks, fish tanks and coffee cups share space with beers, late‑night conversations and an old‑school smoky bar vibe.
Erlings Jazz- & Ølbar
0.2 km
Intimate Aarhus neighborhood bar mixing live jazz, candlelit charm and 14 rotating craft beers on tap in a relaxed, grown-up atmosphere.
PV (Pustervig) - Kaffe & Cocktails
0.2 km
Cosy central Aarhus hideaway where daytime coffee culture flows seamlessly into a warm, late-night world of candles, chatter and creative cocktails.
Cafe Gyden
0.3 km
Aarhus's premier hookah lounge where premium shisha meets craft cocktails in refined urban comfort.
Alberts - Cocktailbar i Aarhus
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Alberts Cocktail Bar in Aarhus, featuring innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing.
Annalise's Bar
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Annalise's Bar, where cozy ambiance meets creative cocktails and friendly service.
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.
The Old Irish Pub
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of Ireland at The Old Irish Pub in Aarhus, where great food, drinks, and live entertainment await.
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.
Bar Smil Aarhus
0.3 km
Loud beats, cheap drinks and late-night energy in a compact bar-club right in the centre of Aarhus’ historic heart.
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Casual
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
