Bistro17, Køge

From village cinema to modern Køge bistro

Housed in a former cinema built in 1940 by local architect Erik Engelstoft, Bistro17 adds a contemporary pulse to one of Køge’s most characterful buildings. The old movie house footprint is still legible in the deep interior and high ceilings, but the marquee has given way to a bistro entrance that opens directly onto the town’s main square. Stepping inside, you move from the bustle of Torvet into a space that blends cinematic nostalgia with clean-lined Danish design. Original structural elements and volumes are paired with modern lighting, polished surfaces and an open, social layout. The sense of history is subtle rather than museum-like, with the past suggested in proportions and atmosphere rather than overt decoration. In the former cinema hall, a converted function room can still hint at its days as a place for film screenings and gatherings, now repurposed for private dinners and events.

Comfort-driven cooking and generous brunch culture

The menu leans into bistro comfort food, designed to be enjoyed slowly over conversation rather than rushed meals. Expect a mix of European-inspired dishes and Danish touches: plates such as tartar, seasonal risottos, steaks and burgers sit alongside lighter salads and snacks suited to sharing. Portions are hearty without being heavy, aiming for that balance between indulgence and everyday dining. Brunch has become one of the signatures here, built around a selection of small dishes you compose into your own spread. This format allows you to sample both savory and sweet options on the same visit, from eggs and charcuterie to yogurt, pastries and fresh fruit. Coffee, freshly made lemonades and juices support the daytime mood, with the brunch experience transitioning naturally into an extended lunch for those who linger.

Cocktails, wines and evenings on the square

As the day moves on, the bar side of Bistro17 comes into focus. A compact but considered cocktail list offers both classics and seasonal twists, while a concise wine selection focuses on bottles that pair easily with the food. Beer and non-alcoholic choices round out the options, making it straightforward for mixed groups to find something that suits their taste. On long summer evenings, the outdoor seating becomes a prime spot for people-watching over a glass of wine or an after-work beer. In cooler months, the interior lighting and close-set tables create a more intimate feel, with the bar area quietly anchoring the room. The late opening hours towards the end of the week make this a natural place to stretch a dinner into drinks, without needing to change venue.

A social hub in the heart of old Køge

Bistro17’s location on Torvet means it is woven into Køge’s historic center, with the town’s timbered facades and cobbles just a few steps away. The bistro acts as a bridge between the everyday life of the square and a more curated, urban dining room, drawing in both locals and visitors exploring the old streets. Large windows maintain a visual link to the outside, especially in daylight when the square’s activity becomes part of the backdrop. Inside, the atmosphere is casual yet polished, suitable for everything from relaxed solo lunches to meetups with friends and informal business meals. Table arrangements accommodate both couples and slightly larger groups, with the former cinema’s volume helping to absorb noise when the room fills. Accessibility has been considered, with level access allowing guests with mobility challenges to participate in the experience.

Practical rhythm and when to plan your visit

Bistro17 is open daily, with a daytime focus on brunch and lunch at weekends and a stronger emphasis on dinner and drinks during the week. Midday hours often feel most relaxed, with the square outside at its liveliest and plenty of natural light inside. Evenings from Thursday to Saturday tend to stretch later into the night, reflecting its dual role as eatery and bar. Given its central position and versatile menu, it can serve as both a standalone destination and a convenient anchor within a wider exploration of Køge. Whether you are starting the day with a multi-plate brunch, pausing between sights for coffee and something sweet, or settling in for a full three-course meal, the bistro’s rhythm follows the town’s own cycle from market mornings to sociable evenings.