King Hans Cellar: Copenhagen’s Legendary Medieval Fine Dining Retreat
Historic vaulted cellars, cutting-edge Nordic cuisine, and centuries-old royal ambiance converge at Copenhagen’s legendary King Hans Cellar fine dining restaurant.
4.7
King Hans Cellar is an atmospheric fine dining restaurant nestled beneath Copenhagen’s historic city center, widely celebrated for its location in a centuries-old brick-vaulted cellar. Named after King Hans, who reigned over Denmark in the late 15th and early 16th centuries, this Michelin-starred destination combines rich royal heritage with the pinnacle of modern Nordic cuisine in an intimate, candlelit environment, making it a sought-after spot for gourmands.
A brief summary to King Hans Cellar
- Vingårdstræde 6, Copenhagen, København K, 1070, DK
- +4533116868
- Visit website
- Wednesday 6 pm-12 am
- Thursday 6 pm-12 am
- Friday 6 pm-12 am
- Saturday 6 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Reservations are essential and should be made several weeks in advance, especially for weekend or holiday dining.
- Dress code is elegantly smart—jackets aren’t mandatory, but many guests opt for refined attire.
- Expect a leisurely meal—tasting menus unfold over several hours, so plan for an unhurried evening.
- Wine pairings are highly recommended, but a non-alcoholic pairing is also available for non-drinkers.
- The cellar’s stairs and historic architecture present some accessibility limitations; inquire ahead if mobility is a concern.
Discover more about King Hans Cellar
Stepping through the discreet entrance and descending into the candlelit vaults of King Hans Cellar is like crossing a threshold into Copenhagen’s deep medieval past. Hidden beneath the cobbled lanes of Indre By, the cellar was originally part of a royal wine storehouse dating back hundreds of years—its rough-hewn brick arches and timeworn walls have witnessed centuries of Danish history. The restaurant honors its regal heritage, named for King Hans, a monarch famed for his love of feasting, diplomacy, and innovation.
Inside, the intimate setting—with soft flickers of candlelight reflecting off ancient stone and crisp linen-draped tables—evokes the grandeur of bygone banquets, while maintaining a modern and understated Danish elegance. The culinary experience is a journey through contemporary Scandinavian gastronomy: locally sourced, seasonal ingredients are meticulously prepared and transformed into visually striking tasting menus that reflect Denmark’s evolving food scene. Diners are treated to exceptional wine pairings and precise, attentive service, with each course introduced with thoughtful detail.
The cellar’s ambiance, a harmonious blend of historic austerity and sophisticated charm, makes every visit feel like an occasion. With a ceiling of exposed brick overhead and a sense of exclusivity in the air, guests are gently reminded that they’re dining on a spot that has delighted kings, nobles, and—today—the world’s culinary adventurers. Reservations are essential due to the cellar’s limited capacity and enduring popularity among locals and visitors. This is not just a meal; it’s a time capsule, a sensory voyage through royal Danish legacy and the innovation of New Nordic cuisine, right at the heart of Copenhagen.
