Panorama Mad & Vin, Silkeborg

A culinary oasis on Silkeborg’s main square

Panorama Mad & Vin sits right on Torvet, Silkeborg’s central square, with large windows framing the life of the town outside. Step through the door and the bustle drops away into a calm, softly lit space where white tablecloths and neatly set tables signal care without feeling stiff. The room is intimate rather than grand, which makes it as suited to a leisurely solo lunch as to a celebratory dinner. From midday to late evening, the restaurant works as a rhythmical counterpoint to the square: outside, bikes rattle over cobblestones; inside, cutlery rests on linen and glassware catches the light. The sense of being in the very heart of Silkeborg, yet slightly removed from its noise, is a big part of the appeal.

Danish smørrebrød with crafted detail

At lunchtime, the focus is firmly on smørrebrød, Denmark’s iconic open-faced sandwiches. Here they are far from simple bread-and-topping affairs. Expect carefully layered compositions: perhaps crisp fish fillets with remoulade and herbs, roast beef with pickles and fried onions, or potato smørrebrød lifted by chives, crunchy elements and rich mayonnaise. Portions are generous, the plating colourful and precise, and the bread itself is treated as a key ingredient rather than an afterthought. Classic flavours remain recognisable, but garnishes and textures are elevated to restaurant level. It is the kind of smørrebrød that blurs the line between everyday lunch and something worth planning your day around.

Evening plates inspired by French kitchens

As the afternoon light fades over the square, the menu shifts in a decidedly French direction. Tartare mixed to order at the table, fish dishes with buttery sauces and bright acids, and well-cooked steaks or tenderloin with elaborate garnishes often anchor the evening selection. The kitchen emphasises fresh produce and balanced seasoning, so even richer dishes stay inviting rather than heavy. Presentation matters here: plates arrive as composed scenes, with vegetables and sauces arranged to showcase both colour and contrast. Yet the style is more classic bistro than experimental laboratory, making it approachable even if you prefer familiar flavours.

Wine, hospitality and the art of hygge

True to its name, wine is central to the experience. The list spans accessible options by the glass to more serious bottles, chosen to match both the smørrebrød at midday and the French-inspired dishes after dark. Staff are comfortable suggesting pairings, whether you lean toward crisp whites for fish or fuller reds for meat. Service is attentive without hovering, contributing to a strong sense of hygge – that distinctly Danish feeling of warmth, ease and togetherness. This is a place where a business lunch can glide into an extra glass of wine, or a casual midweek dinner can quietly turn into a small celebration.

Atmosphere, occasions and when to visit

Panorama Mad & Vin’s compact dining room lends itself well to many occasions: unhurried lunches with friends, intimate dates, family gatherings and special-occasion dinners. Daytime brings more natural light and a slightly livelier feel, especially when the square is busy; evenings are softer, more candlelit and romantic. The restaurant opens from late morning to 23:00 from Tuesday to Saturday, remaining closed on Sundays and Mondays. Booking is sensible for dinner and for popular lunch slots, particularly on Saturdays when long, sociable meals are the norm. Allow ample time: the pleasure here lies in sitting, tasting and watching Silkeborg move around you outside the windows.