Pihlkjær Restaurant
Intimate seafood sanctuary where daily-changing menus celebrate the catch of the day and farm-fresh vegetables.
Pihlkjær is a modern seafood restaurant in central Aarhus specializing in fresh fish and shellfish with daily-changing menus based on seasonal catches. Located in a charming backyard setting on Mejlgade, the intimate restaurant combines Scandinavian design with creative Nordic cuisine, offering fish, meat, vegetarian, and vegan options prepared with ingredients sourced from the chef's own farm south of Aarhus.
A brief summary to Pihlkjær Restaurant
- Mejlgade 28, Aarhus Municipality, Aarhus C, 8000, DK
- +4586182330
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 5:30 pm-10:30 pm
- Wednesday 5:30 pm-10:30 pm
- Thursday 5:30 pm-10:30 pm
- Friday 5:30 pm-11:30 pm
- Saturday 5:30 pm-11:30 pm
Local tips
- Reserve well in advance, especially for weekends, as the intimate backyard space fills quickly. Call +45 86 18 23 30 to book.
- If vegetarian or vegan, inform the restaurant when making your reservation so they can prepare a custom menu from scratch.
- Try the signature pighvarsuppen (fish soup) if available—it's a standout dish that exemplifies the restaurant's mastery of seafood.
- Arrive with an open mind about the menu; the daily-changing offerings mean you'll experience something different each visit based on seasonal availability.
- Ask the waiter for wine pairing recommendations; the staff are knowledgeable and helpful in selecting options within various budgets.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
Pihlkjær Restaurant location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Pihlkjær Restaurant
A Hidden Gem in Aarhus's Historic Backyard
Nestled in a quiet courtyard off Mejlgade in the heart of Aarhus, Pihlkjær occupies a charming backyard setting that feels worlds away from the bustling street outside. Founded in 2013 by chef Henrik Pihlkjær, the restaurant has established itself as one of Aarhus's finest seafood destinations. The intimate space, with its stylish Scandinavian interior and relaxed atmosphere, creates the perfect environment for both casual lunches and special occasion dinners. The restaurant's hidden location adds to its allure, making it a favorite discovery for locals and visitors alike.Mastery of Fish and Seasonal Ingredients
Pihlkjær's philosophy centers on respect for the sea and the seasons. The menu changes daily, reflecting what the fish market offers and what grows in the chef's own garden at Pihlkjærgård, located south of Aarhus. Fish and shellfish form the foundation of the restaurant's offerings, with classic dishes reimagined through modern techniques. The signature fish soup, known as pighvarsuppen, is a standout dish that exemplifies the restaurant's commitment to flavor and quality. Each evening, the chef prepares a three-course menu featuring both fish and meat options, allowing diners to choose between two or three courses. This approach ensures that every visit offers a different experience, as the menu adapts to seasonal availability and daily catches.Inclusive Dining for All Preferences
While seafood is the restaurant's specialty, Pihlkjær accommodates diverse dietary preferences with thoughtfulness and creativity. Vegetarian and vegan menus are available and require advance notice when making a reservation. Diners who arrange vegan options in advance receive a custom three-course meal prepared from scratch, demonstrating that these are not afterthought options but carefully crafted experiences. The restaurant also offers meat dishes for those who prefer alternatives to seafood, ensuring that every guest finds something exceptional to enjoy.Farm-to-Table Philosophy and Quality Sourcing
The restaurant's commitment to quality extends beyond the kitchen. All vegetables served at Pihlkjær come from Pihlkjærgård, the chef's own farm, ensuring complete control over ingredient quality and freshness. This farm-to-table approach, combined with direct relationships with local fish suppliers, means that diners experience produce and seafood at peak ripeness and flavor. The attention to sourcing reflects a broader philosophy of sustainability and respect for natural ingredients, evident in every carefully plated dish.Atmosphere and Service Excellence
The restaurant's intimate scale—with limited seating in the cozy backyard space—contributes to its special character. Staff members are known for their attentiveness and knowledge, describing dishes in detail and assisting with wine pairings. The relaxed yet refined atmosphere strikes a balance between fine dining and approachability, making guests feel welcomed whether they are celebrating a milestone or enjoying a quiet weeknight dinner. The combination of thoughtful service, beautiful presentation, and genuine hospitality creates memorable dining experiences.Reasonable Pricing for Fine Dining Quality
Despite its reputation and quality, Pihlkjær maintains moderate pricing that represents good value for the level of cuisine and care provided. The three-course menu format offers flexibility, allowing diners to choose the depth of their experience. While wine selections can be pricier, as is typical in Denmark, the food itself is reasonably priced for the quality and creativity offered. This accessibility has made Pihlkjær a favorite among both locals seeking regular fine-dining experiences and visitors looking for authentic Aarhus cuisine.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Folkehuset Trøjborg
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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
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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
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A bronze sculpture celebrating the female form in Aarhus's cultural heart.
Frederiks Plads
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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
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Explore contemporary art at Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden, Aarhus' premier gallery showcasing local and international talent.
Møllen i botanisk have Århus
1.2 km
Historic mill at the heart of Aarhus's verdant botanical sanctuary, blending heritage with living gardens.
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
1.3 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
1.5 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
3.2 km
Historic plaza overlooking Aarhus Bay, gateway to royal heritage and astronomical discovery.
Unmissable attractions to see
Latinerkvarteret
0.1 km
Aarhus’ oldest quarter: cobbled lanes, medieval houses, indie shops and café terraces creating a compact, bohemian neighborhood just behind the cathedral.
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.
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
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Marselisborg Castle offers royal heritage, tranquil gardens, and public art in Aarhus—a unique glimpse into Danish monarchy, all set within lush, accessible parklands.
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 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
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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.
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.
Viking Museum
0.3 km
Walk where Vikings founded Aarhus 1,200 years ago in this underground museum beneath the city center.
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
0.4 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
Pihlkjær Restaurant
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Experience exquisite modern Danish cuisine at Pihlkjær Restaurant in Aarhus – where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.
OliNico
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Sct. Oluf Restaurant
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Restaurant Domestic
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Den Rustikke
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Lecoq
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French-inspired brasserie and bar bringing Southern European warmth, wine and late-night energy to Aarhus’ atmospheric Latin Quarter on Graven.
Plant Food
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Small, cosy and completely plant-based, Plant Food serves bold umami burgers, bowls and sandwiches in the heart of Aarhus’ atmospheric Latin Quarter.
Casablanca Aarhus
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French‑style brasserie, famous brunch “Crunch” and cosy café‑bar atmosphere in the heart of Aarhus’ historic Latin Quarter.
Slap Af
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Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Slap Af in Aarhus – where exquisite dishes meet expertly crafted cocktails.
Mefisto Restaurant & Gårdhave
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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
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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
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Piccolina
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Carlton
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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.
Kolo
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Urban kolonihave vibes, reimagined kebab and vegetable-led plates, and natural wines on tap in one of Aarhus’ most inviting city-centre dining rooms.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
LAKOR Shop Aarhus
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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.
Jooma Aarhus
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Discover unique Danish crafts and gifts at Jooma Aarhus, nestled in the historic Latinerkvarteret.
Loppegal
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Curated secondhand fashion and interiors in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, where Danish design sensibility meets flea-market charm in a cosy, character-filled shop.
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.
Badstue Rock
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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.
& Vintage
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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.
Munthe Market
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Where timeless fashion finds new purpose through conscious curation and circular design.
Seramikku - Japandi Concept Store
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stoy
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Utzon
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Sophies Tøjhus
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Balsalen
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Panduro Hobby
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Skagen Clothing
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Ganni
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ris Ras Filliongongong
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Candlelit basement bar on Aarhus’ Mejlgade, blending an extensive beer selection with bohemian, living-room coziness and easygoing late-night conversations.
El Loco
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Mig og Ølsnedkeren
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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
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Aarhus's premier hookah lounge where premium shisha meets craft cocktails in refined urban comfort.
Alberts - Cocktailbar i Aarhus
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Alberts Cocktail Bar in Aarhus, featuring innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing.
The Old Irish Pub
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Discover the vibrant spirit of Ireland at The Old Irish Pub in Aarhus, where great food, drinks, and live entertainment await.
Hornsleth Bar Aarhus
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Discover the vibrant nightlife of Hornsleth Bar Aarhus, a premier destination for cocktails and dancing in the heart of the city.
Bar Smil Aarhus
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Loud beats, cheap drinks and late-night energy in a compact bar-club right in the centre of Aarhus’ historic heart.
Annalise's Bar
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Annalise's Bar, where cozy ambiance meets creative cocktails and friendly service.
Two Socks Ginbar
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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.
Fairbar
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Experience the perfect blend of bar and cafe culture at Fairbar in Aarhus, offering a cozy ambiance and a diverse drink menu.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
DCD STUDIO
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Experience the vibrant rock music scene at DCD STUDIO in Aarhus, where electrifying performances and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Cafe Paradis - Den Sidste
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Unleash your nightlife experience at Cafe Paradis - Den Sidste, Aarhus' top destination for dancing, cocktails, and unforgettable memories.
Bernhardt Natklub
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Discover Aarhus' premier nightlife destination at Bernhardt Natklub, where cocktails and beats create unforgettable memories.
GBAR
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at GBAR in Aarhus, a welcoming dance club where everyone can enjoy an unforgettable night out.
ZenZa Cocktailbar
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Discover Aarhus' vibrant nightlife at ZenZa Cocktailbar, where expertly crafted cocktails and lively atmosphere await you.
Rustik Bar & Natklub - Aarhus
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Dive into the pulsating nightlife of Aarhus at Rustik Bar & Natklub, where vibrant music and an electric atmosphere await.
Lounge 8000
0.5 km
Discover the best of Aarhus nightlife at Lounge 8000, where vibrant performances and a stylish lounge atmosphere await.
equalclub
0.7 km
Discover the thriving nightlife of Aarhus at Equal Club, where music, dance, and unforgettable experiences come together.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Modern Designs
- Scandinavian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly