Vækst

A greenhouse oasis in the Latin Quarter

Vækst sits on a narrow street in Copenhagen’s historic Latin Quarter, yet stepping inside feels more like entering a modern urban garden. The heart of the restaurant is a tall glass greenhouse, built straight through two floors and overflowing with climbing vines, herbs and potted greens. Around it, tables are arranged on both levels so diners eat in the glow of string lights and reflections from the glass, as if seated in a courtyard on a long Nordic summer evening. The atmosphere is intimate but relaxed: wooden tables, soft textiles and warm lighting take the edge off the concrete and glass, while the hum of conversation from both floors gives the place an easy, convivial buzz. From some upstairs tables you can glimpse the street outside, but most sightlines are drawn inward toward the plants, creating a cocoon-like feeling in the middle of the city.

Nordic cooking rooted in the vegetable garden

In the kitchen, Vækst’s guiding idea is that vegetables and herbs are the stars of the plate rather than the garnish. Menus shift with the seasons, following what Nordic farms and waters are yielding at any given time. Expect crisp root vegetables in the colder months, delicate greens and shoots in spring, and vibrant berries and tomatoes once summer is in full swing. There is usually a dedicated green tasting menu alongside a house menu that weaves in meat, fish and shellfish. A piece of grilled beef might arrive with several preparations of the same vegetable, while a fillet of white fish could be paired with bright herb oils, pickled elements and a deeply flavoured sauce. The cooking style is modern but not showy, focused on clean flavors, texture contrasts and a sense of lightness rather than richness.

Design details that bring nature to the table

The greenhouse is more than a visual centerpiece: many of the herbs and edible plants grown inside are used directly in the dishes and garnishes. You may see staff step into the glass structure to snip fresh sprigs during service. Combined with pale wood, muted tones and simple tableware, it gives the restaurant a contemporary Scandinavian feel anchored firmly in nature. Lighting plays a big role in the mood. In the darker months, candles and small lamps cast warm pools of light against the glass panes and foliage. On long summer evenings, softer daylight filters down between leaves, making the second floor feel particularly airy. Despite being on two levels, the space is tightly knit; you are always aware of the greenery and the gentle clink of glasses from nearby tables.

Wine pairings and convivial evenings

Vækst’s wine list leans toward lighter, food‑friendly bottles, many from cooler-climate European regions that match the freshness of the cooking. Set menus are often offered with optional wine pairings, ranging from crisp whites and delicate reds to a few more experimental choices. Service tends to highlight how each wine plays with the herbs, acidity and subtle smokiness in the dishes. Portions and pacing are designed for lingering evenings rather than rushed meals. It is a setting well suited to couples, small groups of friends or family celebrations that call for a special but not overly formal occasion. The two-floor layout allows for semi‑private corners and larger tables, while the greenhouse keeps the whole space visually connected.

Seasons, occasions and when to linger

Although Vækst is open for both lunch and dinner, the restaurant truly comes into its own after dark, when the greenhouse glows against the night outside. In summer, the experience echoes a garden party sheltered from any sudden change in weather, while in winter it feels like a warm conservatory, protecting a pocket of green from the cold streets. The restaurant can host intimate events, from birthdays to small weddings, using either the main dining room among the plants or a more secluded private space. Whether you stop in for a carefully composed midday menu or settle in for a full multi‑course evening, the lasting impression is one of being wrapped in greenery, with thoughtful Nordic cooking at the center of the experience.