Restaurant Olive, Aarhus
Neighbourhood-style bistro in central Aarhus with classic comfort cooking, intimate candlelit tables and the rare bonus of bring-your-own wine at moderate prices.
Tucked away on Kaløgade in central Aarhus, Restaurant Olive is a cosy, unpretentious bistro known for its simple, well-priced set menus and relaxed candlelit atmosphere. White tablecloths, closely spaced tables and an open, chatty room create an intimate neighbourhood feel that attracts date nights, small groups and pre-theatre dinners. Classic European comfort dishes, generous portions and the option to bring your own wine make it a long-running local favourite for laid-back evenings out rather than special-occasion fine dining.
A brief summary to Restaurant Olive
- Kaløgade 1, Aarhus Municipality, Aarhus C, 8000, DK
- +4586129561
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 5:30 pm-10 pm
- Tuesday 5:30 pm-10 pm
- Wednesday 5:30 pm-10 pm
- Thursday 5:30 pm-10 pm
- Friday 5:30 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 5:30 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Book ahead for Friday and Saturday evenings, as the compact dining room fills quickly and walk-ins often face a wait or limited seating options.
- If the bring-your-own wine option is important to you, confirm current conditions when reserving, as corkage rules and fees can change over time.
- Tables are placed close together; if you prefer a quieter corner, request a wall or window table when you book, though preferences cannot always be guaranteed.
- Allow at least two hours for a relaxed two- or three-course dinner, especially on busy nights when service naturally follows the pace of a full dining room.
- The menu focuses on classic European comfort dishes; check for daily specials if you are looking for fish of the day or slightly lighter options.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Restaurant Olive 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 Restaurant Olive
A cosy Aarhus bistro on a quiet corner
Restaurant Olive sits on a modest corner of Kaløgade in Aarhus C, just a short stroll from the city’s busier streets but with a distinctly local feel. Stepping inside, you move from residential calm into a room that quickly fills with chatter, clinking cutlery and the soft glow of candles. Tables are set close together under white tablecloths, creating an intimate, almost living-room atmosphere where conversations mingle and the evening feels convivial rather than formal. The space is compact and low-key, with simple décor that leans more towards classic bistro than minimalist design piece. Framed prints, warm lighting and dark wooden chairs give it a slightly old-world charm. It is the kind of room that feels made for lingering over an extra course, not rushing through a meal.Classic comfort cooking with a European accent
The kitchen focuses on straightforward dishes that draw on French and broader European traditions: creamy soups, pan-seared fish, rich meat mains and familiar desserts like crème brûlée and cheesecake. Menus are typically built around 2- or 3-course options at a set price, which keeps decisions simple and spending predictable. Portions tend to be generous rather than delicate, appealing to diners who enjoy hearty plates over tasting-menu finesse. There is a clear emphasis on flavour and comfort: sauces are often buttery or creamy, vegetables cooked to tenderness rather than crunch, and desserts leaning sweet and indulgent. Seasonal changes are subtle but present, with fish of the day or shifting accompaniments appearing as the year turns. It is a place where you are more likely to find a well-executed steak or roasted chicken than experimental or avant-garde cooking.Bring-your-own wine and a relaxed rhythm
One of Olive’s most distinctive touches is the longstanding option to bring your own wine, a rarity in Denmark and a key part of the restaurant’s character. This small detail changes the rhythm of an evening: guests often arrive with a carefully chosen bottle in hand, turning the meal into a more personal occasion. Corkage practices may vary over time, but the concept has helped cement Olive as a go-to for budget-conscious celebrations and spontaneous midweek dinners alike. Inside, service follows a bistro cadence: bookings are staggered around the evening opening, the room gradually fills, and there is a gentle hum of plates arriving from the semi-open kitchen. The layout makes it easy to feel part of the overall buzz, even at a two-top by the wall. On busier nights, the close spacing means you are likely to overhear neighbouring conversations, part of the informal charm of the place.Who will enjoy Restaurant Olive most
Olive suits travellers and locals looking for an affordable sit-down dinner in central Aarhus without the polish or price tag of fine dining. Couples can settle into a corner table for a quietly romantic night, while small groups of friends or family appreciate the set menus and predictable bill at the end. Solo diners are also common, taking advantage of the relaxed vibe and straightforward menu after a day of sightseeing or work. The restaurant’s compact size and tightly arranged seating mean it feels lively once the evening is underway. Those who enjoy intimate, bustling dining rooms will feel at home; visitors seeking a hushed, ultra-private setting may prefer a different venue. For many, the appeal lies exactly in this bistro-style energy, where the room, food and conversation all share centre stage.Planning your evening in the neighbourhood
Given its location in Aarhus C, Olive fits easily into a broader night out in the city. It works well as a prelude to a concert, theatre performance or a walk through the nearby streets and waterfront areas. The moderate price level makes it a comfortable option for students, couples and small groups who want a proper sit-down meal without straying far from the city’s cultural heart. Reservations are advisable on weekend evenings, when the room often fills soon after opening. Plan to give yourself a relaxed two to three hours if you intend to enjoy multiple courses and a bottle of wine. With its combination of neighbourhood warmth, classic dishes and the unusual bring-your-own-wine tradition, Restaurant Olive offers a snapshot of Aarhus dining that feels lived-in and familiar rather than showy.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.
Nordisk Film Cinemas Trøjborg
1.0 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
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant community spirit of Aarhus at Trøjborg Beboerhus, a hub for cultural events, workshops, and local gatherings.
Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden
1.1 km
Explore contemporary art at Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden, Aarhus' premier gallery showcasing local and international talent.
Møllen i botanisk have Århus
1.3 km
Historic mill at the heart of Aarhus's verdant botanical sanctuary, blending heritage with living gardens.
Greenhouses in the Botanical Garden
1.3 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.
Agnete og Havmanden
1.3 km
Discover the poetic fusion of Danish folklore and modern sculpture at Aarhus’ Agnete og Havmanden, a landmark bronze fountain embodying myth and emotion.
The Old Town
1.3 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.
Den Svangre
1.3 km
A bronze sculpture celebrating the female form in Aarhus's cultural heart.
Rådhusparken
1.4 km
An elegant city park at Aarhus’ core, Rådhusparken blends iconic architecture, sculptures, and tranquil green spaces right beside the city hall.
Frederiks Plads
1.4 km
A vibrant, contemporary city square where modern architecture, open green space, and urban life converge in the heart of Aarhus near Frederiksbjerg.
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
2.9 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
3.5 km
Standing tall in Mindeparken, Marselisborgmonumentet honors Danish World War I volunteers with solemn beauty, monumental sculpture, and panoramic bay views near Aarhus.
Flagpladsen
3.6 km
Historic plaza overlooking Aarhus Bay, gateway to royal heritage and astronomical discovery.
Unmissable attractions to see
Latinerkvarteret
0.4 km
Aarhus’ oldest quarter: cobbled lanes, medieval houses, indie shops and café terraces creating a compact, bohemian neighborhood just behind the cathedral.
Latin Quarter
0.4 km
Aarhus’ Latin Quarter blends cobbled medieval streets, historic townhouses and bike-friendly lanes with creative cafés, boutiques and boundary-pushing Nordic dining.
Aarhus waterfront
0.4 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
0.5 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.
The Occupation Museum
0.5 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
0.5 km
One of the world's few museums exploring gender, equality, and sexuality through history and contemporary dialogue.
Mindrebæltsbroen
0.5 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.
Endless Connection
0.6 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.
Aarhus Cathedral
0.6 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
0.6 km
Historic Great Square where cathedral spires, elegant façades and everyday city life come together in the pedestrianized heart of Aarhus.
Ismael
0.6 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.
Lille Torv
0.6 km
Aarhus Waterfront: a vibrant coastal promenade fusing striking modern architecture, rich maritime heritage, and lively urban culture along the city’s scenic bay.
Klostertorvet
0.6 km
Intimate cobbled square in central Aarhus where monastic history, café life and city shopping streets meet in a relaxed, atmospheric urban pocket.
Bishop's Square
0.6 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
0.6 km
Walk where Vikings founded Aarhus 1,200 years ago in this underground museum beneath the city center.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Olive
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Neighbourhood-style bistro in central Aarhus with classic comfort cooking, intimate candlelit tables and the rare bonus of bring-your-own wine at moderate prices.
Le Basilic
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Restaurant Domestic
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OliNico
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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
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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
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Experience exquisite modern Danish cuisine at Pihlkjær Restaurant in Aarhus – where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Slap Af
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Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Slap Af in Aarhus – where exquisite dishes meet expertly crafted cocktails.
Gusto
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Honest sourdough pizza, natural wines and warm, late-night buzz in the heart of Aarhus’ Latin Quarter.
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.
Den Rustikke
0.4 km
Discover Den Rustikke in Aarhus - where traditional Danish cuisine meets modern culinary artistry for an unforgettable dining experience.
Plant Food
0.4 km
Small, cosy and completely plant-based, Plant Food serves bold umami burgers, bowls and sandwiches in the heart of Aarhus’ atmospheric Latin Quarter.
Restaurant Komfur
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Restaurant Komfur in Aarhus offers modern Danish cuisine in a stylish yet comforting space, celebrated for creative menus, vibrant atmosphere, and local culinary flair.
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.
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.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Loppegal
0.4 km
Curated secondhand fashion and interiors in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, where Danish design sensibility meets flea-market charm in a cosy, character-filled shop.
PRAG
0.4 km
Colourful vintage fashion in the heart of Aarhus, where curated second-hand style meets relaxed, student-city energy on lively Nørregade.
All Time Vintage
0.4 km
Compact, curated and characterful, All Time Vintage brings sustainable style and one-off wardrobe finds to the heart of Aarhus’ Nørregade neighbourhood.
Jooma Aarhus
0.4 km
Discover unique Danish crafts and gifts at Jooma Aarhus, nestled in the historic Latinerkvarteret.
Salvation Army thrift store
0.4 km
Charity-run thrift haven in central Aarhus, where ever-changing second-hand finds and small prices support the Salvation Army’s wider social work.
LAKOR Shop Aarhus
0.4 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.
Magpie Lane Vintage
0.4 km
Aarhus’ go-to vintage boutique for unique, handpicked fashion finds and classic accessories in an inviting, sustainability-focused setting.
Munthe Market
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Where timeless fashion finds new purpose through conscious curation and circular design.
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.
So ein Ding - Vintage
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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.
Ganni
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Compact slice of Copenhagen-cool in Aarhus’ Guldsmedgade, where playful Scandi fashion, bold prints and clean Nordic interiors meet in a relaxed boutique setting.
S.T. Valentin
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Contemporary menswear boutique in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, blending Scandinavian simplicity, quality footwear and attentive styling in an intimate setting.
LÏST Store
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Røde Kors Butik Krydsfelt
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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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Erlings Jazz- & Ølbar
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Intimate Aarhus neighborhood bar mixing live jazz, candlelit charm and 14 rotating craft beers on tap in a relaxed, grown-up atmosphere.
El Loco
0.2 km
Discover El Loco, a vibrant bar in Aarhus, known for its lively atmosphere, affordable drinks, and unforgettable nightlife experience.
SLM Aarhus
0.3 km
Discover the lively spirit of SLM Aarhus, a welcoming gay bar offering themed nights and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Aarhus.
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.
Cirkuskroen
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Cirkuskroen, a charming bar offering a perfect blend of drinks and local culture.
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.
Mig og Ølsnedkeren
0.4 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
0.5 km
Contemporary craft beer, rotating taps and a relaxed neighborhood buzz in a minimalist taproom tucked into Aarhus’ historic Latin Quarter.
Café Under Masken
0.5 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.
PV (Pustervig) - Kaffe & Cocktails
0.5 km
Cosy central Aarhus hideaway where daytime coffee culture flows seamlessly into a warm, late-night world of candles, chatter and creative cocktails.
Hornsleth Bar Aarhus
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Hornsleth Bar Aarhus, a premier destination for cocktails and dancing in the heart of the city.
Heidi's Bier Bar Aarhus
0.6 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.
Cafe Gyden
0.6 km
Aarhus's premier hookah lounge where premium shisha meets craft cocktails in refined urban comfort.
Fairbar
0.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of bar and cafe culture at Fairbar in Aarhus, offering a cozy ambiance and a diverse drink menu.
Two Socks Ginbar
0.6 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly