Restaurant Schønnemann: The Heart of Smørrebrød Tradition in Indre By
Experience authentic Danish smørrebrød and century-old culinary tradition at Restaurant Schønnemann, a historic Copenhagen institution renowned for its iconic lunch culture.
4.7
Restaurant Schønnemann, a Copenhagen institution since 1877, is famed for its authentic Danish smørrebrød and warm, wood-paneled ambiance. Nestled in the historic center, it draws locals and visitors alike with its rich tradition, heritage recipes, and welcoming atmosphere. With a reputation for generous open-faced sandwiches and classic aquavit toasts, dining at Schønnemann is a cherished cultural experience.
A brief summary to Restaurant Schønnemann
- Hauser Pl. 16, Copenhagen, København K, 1127, DK
- +4533120785
- Visit website
- Monday 11:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 11:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 11:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 11:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 11:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 11:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on Fridays and weekends, as tables fill up quickly.
- Try pairing your smørrebrød with a traditional Danish aquavit for a truly authentic experience.
- The restaurant is open only for lunch, so plan your visit accordingly and avoid coming late in the afternoon.
- Vegetarian and gluten-free smørrebrød options are available, but the menu is traditional—clarify dietary needs when booking.
- Expect premium pricing to match the historic setting and top-quality ingredients—budget accordingly for a splurge-worthy meal.
Discover more about Restaurant Schønnemann
Deep in the heart of Copenhagen's old town, Restaurant Schønnemann stands as a living homage to Denmark's beloved smørrebrød culture—a must for any culinary explorer. Having welcomed guests since 1877, Schønnemann is one of the city's oldest eateries, imbued with charming history and traditions that transport diners to an era of classic Danish hospitality. The restaurant's interior—trimmed in dark woods, aged mirrors, and crisp table linens—immaculately captures the feeling of a 19th-century Copenhagen lunch haven, where businessmen, artists, and families have gathered for generations.
The true stars of Schønnemann are its meticulously crafted smørrebrød: open-faced sandwiches that showcase seasonal ingredients, local rye bread, and time-honored toppings such as pickled herring, roast pork, creamy potato, and gravadlax. Each plate is artfully arranged and portioned for sharing or sampling—a ritual best accompanied by a cold Danish beer and a glass (or two) of aquavit, the traditional Scandinavian schnapps. Service is attentive and knowledgeable, with staff happy to explain the intricate menu or recommend the house specialties of the day.
Reservation is highly advised, as Schønnemann’s reputation and limited lunchtime hours create a vibrant, bustling atmosphere, particularly on weekends and holidays. While the location is a favorite for food lovers worldwide, it never feels touristy: locals make up a significant share of the clientele, sustaining the authenticity of the experience. Expect prices to reflect both the premium ingredients and historic setting, making this a special occasion lunch rather than an everyday treat.
A meal at Schønnemann is far more than a meal—it is a deep dive into Danish tradition, where culinary heritage comes alive in every bite and every story told by the welcoming staff.
