Den Blå Bistro, Kolding
French-inspired bistro at the heart of Kolding, blending classic Gallic dishes, Danish ingredients and a cosy, candlelit atmosphere ideal for both lunch and long dinners.
Den Blå Bistro is a classic French-inspired bistro in the heart of Kolding, pairing Danish ingredients with Gallic flair. Behind its blue facade you will find candlelit tables, tiled floors and framed posters that evoke a Parisian corner café, while the menu ranges from steak frites and croque-style dishes to seafood, seasonal specials and thoughtful vegetarian options. A strong wine list, creative gin and tonics and an easy-going, unpretentious atmosphere make it a welcoming stop for lunch, dinner or lingering drinks.
A brief summary to Den Blå Bistro
- Lilletorv 16, Kolding, 6000, DK
- +4575506512
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11:30 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 11:30 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 11:30 am-10 pm
- Thursday 11:30 am-10 pm
- Friday 11:30 am-10 pm
- Saturday 11:30 am-10 pm
- Sunday 11:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book ahead for Friday and Saturday evenings, especially if you prefer a window table or a spot on the terrace during warmer months.
- Ask staff for wine recommendations; the list has a strong French focus and pairing suggestions can elevate both classic bistro dishes and daily specials.
- If you have dietary requirements such as gluten-free or vegetarian, mention them when ordering; the kitchen is used to adapting parts of the menu.
- For a calmer experience, aim for early lunch or early dinner; later evenings can become quite lively as the dining room fills.
- Combine a meal here with a visit to nearby Koldinghus or a stroll through the historic centre to make the most of the central location.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Den Blå Bistro location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Den Blå Bistro
A slice of Paris in central Kolding
Den Blå Bistro sits right in Kolding’s compact historic centre, a few steps from the town’s main squares and close to its cobbled shopping streets. From outside, the deep-blue frontage and neatly arranged terrace tables stand out against the surrounding buildings, signalling that this is a place to linger rather than rush through. Inside, the room opens into a warm, low-lit space with small tables placed closely enough to feel convivial but not cramped. The mood strikes a careful balance between Nordic informality and French bistro charm. Expect polished wooden chairs, classic café tables, candles and fresh flowers, and a hum of conversation from couples, small groups and locals stopping by for a glass of wine. It feels equally suited to a relaxed midday meal after exploring Koldinghus as it does to a more intimate evening dinner.French bistro cooking with Danish roots
The kitchen at Den Blå Bistro takes its cues from traditional French brasserie food while leaning on seasonal Danish produce. Menus typically feature bistro favourites such as steak frites, croque-inspired sandwiches, rich fish dishes and well-constructed salads, alongside changing specials that make use of local meat, seafood and vegetables. Portions are generous rather than fussy, and the cooking style focuses on flavour, reliable technique and comforting combinations. At lunchtime, lighter plates, open-faced interpretations and classic café dishes dominate, making it an easy option for a substantial break in the middle of the day. In the evening, the tone shifts toward multi-course meals: you might start with carpaccio or a delicate seafood plate, follow with a robust meat dish or catch of the day, and finish with a traditional dessert or a cheese selection. Vegetarian and plant-forward choices are usually present, and the kitchen is accustomed to discussing dietary needs, including gluten-free requests.Wine, gin and the pleasure of lingering
Den Blå Bistro takes its drinks seriously, particularly when it comes to wine. The selection highlights European bottles with a strong French backbone, ranging from easy-drinking house pours by the glass to more characterful choices suited to splashing out over a long dinner. Staff are used to suggesting pairings, whether you are after something crisp for fish, a full-bodied red for steak or a softer option to sip through the evening. Beyond wine, the bar shows a distinct fondness for gin and tonics, with a line-up of gins and mixers from different producers and regions. Classic cocktails and a range of non-alcoholic options round out the list. It is entirely possible to treat Den Blå as a wine bar or drinks spot first and a restaurant second, dropping in for an apéritif before a show, a nightcap after wandering the old streets, or a relaxed session of sharing snacks and drinks at one of the smaller tables.Atmosphere, rhythm and best times to visit
The rhythm of the day shapes the atmosphere. At opening time around lunch, the bistro tends to be calm and bright, ideal for conversation-heavy meals or solo diners with a book. Mid-afternoon remains unhurried, often with a quieter, café-like feel. As evening approaches, the room fills, the soundtrack and chatter rise a notch, and the candlelight turns the interior into a more intimate setting that still feels unpretentious and friendly. Weeknights are often lively without being overwhelming, while Friday and Saturday evenings see the strongest energy, with tables occupied by groups celebrating, couples on dates and friends sharing set menus. Reservations are sensible at popular times, especially if you prefer to sit outside in good weather or want a particular corner inside. Those looking for a more relaxed experience should consider early evening seatings or weekday lunches.A local fixture with stories in the walls
The bistro traces its roots back to the late 1980s, when it began life as Den Blå Café, quickly becoming one of Kolding’s defining meeting places. Over the years its identity has evolved into the current bistro concept, but a sense of continuity remains in the way it anchors daily life in the city centre. Its location near historic streets and cultural venues means it often serves as the prelude or finale to a day of exploring galleries, castle exhibits and waterfront walks. Regulars treat it as a second living room, while visitors find it an easy place to slip into local rhythms for a few hours. The combination of long-standing history, consciously French-inspired décor and a distinctly Danish approach to warmth and informality gives Den Blå Bistro a character that feels both rooted and cosmopolitan, making it a natural inclusion on any Kolding itinerary focused on food and city ambience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Borchs Gård
0.1 km
A vividly painted Renaissance townhouse from 1595, Borchs Gård brings Kolding’s mercantile past to life on the edge of lively Akseltorv square.
Saint Nicolas Church
0.2 km
Kolding’s oldest church, where medieval roots, Renaissance artistry, and daily parish life meet under a red-brick neo‑Gothic tower.
Milling Hotel Saxildhus
0.4 km
Neo-Gothic English church set by Copenhagen’s Churchill Park and Kastellet, famed for its stained-glass windows, flint architecture, and tranquil atmosphere.
Kolding St.
0.4 km
The compact rail and bus hub that delivers you straight into Kolding’s mix of castle-topped history, cobbled streets and fjord-side modern design.
Villa Gertrud - Bed & Breakfast
0.5 km
St Alban’s Church is Copenhagen’s only Anglican church—an elegant Neo-Gothic landmark in Churchill Park, celebrated for its English architectural charm and tranquil location.
Saint Michaels Church
0.7 km
A modest 19th-century Catholic red-brick church in central Kolding, offering quiet reflection, intimate architecture and a glimpse of Denmark’s Catholic life.
Fredericia Vold
19.8 km
Northern Europe's best-preserved fortress ramparts, where 370 years of Danish military history meets urban parkland.
Troldborg Ring
22.6 km
Iron Age refuge fortress on a wooded hilltop, where grassy ramparts, “Devil’s Valley” slopes and wide views over Vejle Ådal bring deep Danish history to life.
Vejle Vindmølle
23.6 km
Historic windmill turned art gallery with panoramic city views and rotating contemporary exhibitions.
VisitVejle
24.4 km
Explore Andelstrappen and Fortællegyngestolen in Odense: A fusion of nature's beauty and rich literary heritage.
The Midgård Well
24.8 km
A coiled Norse serpent, a quiet city fountain and a whole mythic world wrapped into one small corner of central Vejle.
Sønderjylland Archaeology Museum
26.2 km
Discover ancient artefacts and hidden history at Sønderjylland Archaeology Museum in Haderslev—a fascinating window into Denmark's past from the Stone Age to Vikings.
Tirsbæk Gods
26.9 km
Experience Tirsbæk Gods, an enchanting Renaissance estate on Vejle Fjord offering historic architecture, idyllic gardens, and immersive events in Denmark’s scenic countryside.
Træskohage fyr
27.3 km
An awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral at the heart of Odense, steeped in royal history as Denmark’s only sainted king’s final resting place.
Jelling Mounds, Runic Stones and Church
29.9 km
Experience contemporary art in Vejle's historic 1950s vending machine gallery.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Passage
0.1 km
Encounter the legacy of pioneering sculptor Anne Marie Carl Nielsen through this evocative public artwork in the vibrant central square of Kolding.
Borgerhaven
0.1 km
A small 1930s garden tucked behind historic walls, where flowers, old brickwork and a cannonball in the gable tell Kolding’s story in a single quiet courtyard.
The Spanish stairs
0.1 km
A broad, tile-clad staircase with Lin Utzon’s art, the Spanish Stairs link Kolding’s old streets to its castle hill in a gently Mediterranean-feeling urban pause.
Anne Marie Carl Nielsen
0.2 km
Intimate bronze tribute to Denmark’s trailblazing female sculptor, quietly anchoring Kolding’s central square amid markets, daily life and shifting Jutland light.
Galleri Pagter
0.2 km
Intimate gallery in the heart of Kolding showcasing distinctive Danish ceramics and graphic art in a calm, carefully curated setting.
Stable Yard
0.2 km
Historic whitewashed stables turned city museum, where royal horses, design heritage and Denmark’s only preserved Gestapo cell share one atmospheric courtyard.
Koldinghus
0.2 km
A 750‑year‑old royal fortress reborn as an award‑winning museum, where raw brick ruins, modern timber and sweeping tower views tell the story of Denmark in one castle.
Castle Garden
0.2 km
A tranquil belt of lawns, trees and lake reflections wrapped around Koldinghus, where everyday life and 750 years of castle history share the same green hillside.
Little Kolding Å Park
0.3 km
A small, quiet green pocket along Kolding Å where river, trees and town meet, perfect for a brief pause, a dog walk or a gentle riverside stroll.
Søpromenaden
0.4 km
A modest lakeside ribbon where central Kolding slows down, Søpromenaden offers a quiet urban waterside walk, everyday greenery, and simple benches by the shore.
Guldtunnel
0.4 km
A once-ordinary underpass turned into a glowing golden light tunnel, Guldtunnelen adds a surprising touch of playful design to everyday Kolding strolls.
Slotssøen
0.4 km
A small castle lake with big atmosphere, Slotssøen pairs medieval walls, swans and leafy paths to create Kolding’s most quietly evocative waterside walk.
Mindesten for Kolding Havns 100 Års Jubilæum
0.5 km
Discover 'Uffe hin Spage,' Anne Marie Carl-Nielsen's iconic bronze statue in Kolding's Byparken, celebrating Danish folklore and artistic heritage.
Old Cemetery
0.5 km
Historic 1806 cemetery turned tranquil green refuge, where copper beeches, cast‑iron fences and war memorials quietly tell two centuries of Kolding’s story.
Springvandet ved slotssøbadet
0.5 km
Et moderne springvand på Slotsøens overflade, hvor vandsøjler, borgsilhuet og byliv mødes i et kort, gratis åndehul midt i Koldings historiske hjerte.
Essential places to dine
Den Blå Bistro
0.0 km
French-inspired bistro at the heart of Kolding, blending classic Gallic dishes, Danish ingredients and a cosy, candlelit atmosphere ideal for both lunch and long dinners.
Rafaels Restaurant
0.0 km
Cosy Italian restaurant on Kolding’s historic Slotsgade, serving generous pizzas, pastas and classic dishes in a warm, lively setting ideal for dinners and celebrations.
Kål&co
0.0 km
Bright, veggie-forward café on Kolding’s Slotsgade, turning seasonal greens into hearty salad bowls, pitas and panini in a relaxed, modern setting.
Xin Chào Vietnamese Restaurant
0.0 km
Compact, central and casually modern, Xin Chào brings steaming pho, crisp dumplings and fresh Vietnamese flavours to Kolding’s historic Slotsgade every evening.
Spirit Sushi
0.1 km
Authentic Japanese sushi crafted with precision and fresh ingredients in central Kolding
A Hereford Beefstouw - Kolding
0.1 km
Classic Danish steakhouse dining in Kolding’s second-oldest gabled house, where expertly grilled beef meets candlelit old-town atmosphere and a serious wine list.
the mokka café
0.1 km
Modern Danish hygge in a hidden city passage, blending generous brunches, café classics and cocktails in a warm, all‑day living room in the heart of Kolding.
Naz Barbecue Restaurant
0.1 km
Authentic Turkish barbecue in central Kolding—casual, accessible, and expertly grilled.
Vinbaren Kolding
0.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of fine wines and tantalizing tapas at Vinbaren Kolding - your cozy retreat in Denmark.
Restaurant Johansens
0.1 km
Refined Danish smørrebrød and modern Nordic plates in an intimate, candlelit dining room at the heart of Kolding’s historic center.
Madkassen
0.1 km
Hearty pizzas, grill favorites and ice cream in the heart of Kolding, a casual local spot that fuels busy days and late nights in the city center.
Cliff food bike
0.1 km
Compact soul-food kitchen born from a roaming food bike, serving bold, comforting flavours in Kolding’s historic centre just steps from Koldinghus castle.
Skagen Fiskerestaurant Kolding
0.1 km
Fresh fish and shellfish with a Skagen harbour feel, served in a bright, maritime restaurant on Kolding’s historic Akseltorv market square.
Atami Sushi Restaurant
0.1 km
All‑you‑can‑eat sushi with tablet ordering and robot service in the heart of Kolding’s Akseltorv, blending modern Japanese flavours with a casual Danish city vibe.
Kolding food
0.1 km
Central Kolding shawarma spot serving generous grill plates, durum rolls and box meals, ideal for a quick, filling bite between shops or after a night out.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Janne K Kolding
0.0 km
Contemporary fashion boutique offering seasonal clothing and accessories in central Kolding.
Rituals
0.0 km
A softly lit Rituals boutique on Østergade in Kolding, where serene design, layered scents and thoughtful gift sets turn everyday routines into small indulgent rituals.
HARRESØ
0.1 km
An intimate Kolding concept store where Scandinavian minimalism meets international menswear, blending gallery-like interiors with a sharply curated selection of designer brands.
Red Barnet genbrugsbutik
0.1 km
Compact, community-driven second-hand shop in central Kolding where bargain hunting, sustainability and support for Save the Children come together under one roof.
Gundtoft KOLDING CITY
0.1 km
Elegant women's fashion in Kolding's design-forward city centre, featuring curated Danish and international brands.
Femina Tønder ApS
0.1 km
A central Kolding women’s clothing shop offering practical, Scandinavian-inspired everyday fashion in a compact, easy-to-browse high-street space.
Kul og Koks
0.1 km
Intimate Kolding menswear boutique pairing Scandinavian simplicity with curated, ready-to-wear outfits for everyday life and special occasions.
Bog & idé Kolding City
0.1 km
Central Kolding’s one-stop book and gift shop, combining Danish reads, games, stationery, hobby items and handy photo services in a bright, well-organised space.
Store No 1b ApS
0.1 km
Boutique fashion in the heart of Kolding's charming pedestrian shopping district.
Kims Kiosk Skateshop - Koldings skatebutik
0.1 km
Core skate shop and community hub in central Kolding, blending boards, shoes and streetwear with the laid-back energy of a classic Danish kiosk.
Kop & Kande Kolding C
0.1 km
Central Kolding’s cosy homeware and gift shop, where practical Danish kitchen design, glassware and tableware meet easy browsing on lively Helligkorsgade.
Only
0.1 km
Compact, trend-focused ONLY store in central Kolding, offering accessible Scandinavian women’s fashion, strong on denim and everyday outfits for quick wardrobe updates.
DNA Kolding
0.2 km
Stylish menswear and footwear in the heart of Kolding's downtown shopping district.
Lykke's Guld & Sølv
0.2 km
Longstanding Kolding jeweler on Jernbanegade, blending classic Danish craftsmanship, in-house repairs and a wide range of jewelry and watches for everyday and special occasions.
Filurfifi
0.2 km
A cosy Kolding design boutique filled with playful ceramics, Nordic home décor and character-inspired gifts for women, children and the home.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Den Engelske Pub - You'll Never Walk Alone
0.0 km
British pub tradition meets Danish warmth in Kolding's heart—craft beer, whisky, and football culture.
The Cavern
0.1 km
A cozy, low-lit lounge tucked inside Den Engelske Pub, offering intimate drinks, warm conversation and a calm escape from Kolding’s lively weekend nightlife.
Vegas Bet & Beer
0.1 km
Straightforward beers, sports on screen and easygoing local banter in a compact bar at the heart of Kolding’s historic centre.
The Old Irish pub
0.1 km
Kolding's premier Irish pub with live music, 300-person capacity, and weekend dancing until dawn.
Rabalder Bar Kolding
0.1 km
Small, loud and laid-back, Rabalder Bar Kolding delivers sing-along hits, cheeky drink deals and late-night energy in a compact, central Kolding setting.
8eren
0.1 km
Kolding's premier cocktail bar and pool hall—where drinks, games, and good company meet.
Jernbanecaféen
0.2 km
Straightforward, central Kolding bar by the station, serving inexpensive drinks in a relaxed, lived‑in setting from midday until the early hours.
Knuds Garage
0.2 km
Garage‑themed neighborhood bar in central Kolding with affordable drinks, board games, foosball and a cozy courtyard that turns evenings into easygoing social nights.
Papegøjen
0.4 km
A no-frills corner bodega in central Kolding where cold beer, card games and easy conversation keep the classic Danish pub culture very much alive.
Drop-inn ( 75 50 34 92 )
0.5 km
Unpretentious Kolding bodega in a former girls’ school, serving cold beer, nostalgic “mormor” music and everyday hygge in a cosy red-brick corner bar.
Domhuset Sportsbar
0.5 km
Straightforward Kolding sports bar with darts, big screens and cold beers in a relaxed pub setting on central Låsbygade.
Jazz 6000
0.6 km
Intimate jazz stronghold in Kolding, presenting adventurous live concerts and collaborations that bring Danish jazz up close in a relaxed club atmosphere.
Kontoret Øl og Vinstue
0.7 km
Atmospheric Kolding bar in a historic townhouse, pouring beer and wine in warmly lit, wood‑paneled rooms that feel like the city’s convivial living room.
Snapstinget
1.2 km
One of Kolding’s oldest pubs, Snapstinget pairs ice-cold beer with billiards, darts and a warmly local atmosphere on a quiet street off the city’s sports grounds.
Daddys's Pub
1.2 km
Cosy neighborhood pub on Tvedvej in Kolding, serving cold beers, bar‑side conversation and a generous dose of everyday Danish hygge from late morning into the evening.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Mørks Kælder
0.1 km
Modern basement nightclub in central Kolding, pouring drinks and classic dance tunes for a grown-up crowd late into the weekend night.
Discoteque Tordenskiold
0.1 km
Kolding's legendary two-floor discotheque and cultural institution since 1973.
Pitstop
0.3 km
Small, central and loud, Pitstop is Kolding’s alternative live music stronghold, blending intimate gigs, late-night dancing and laid-back bar vibes in a historic building.
Koldingtivet Engen
0.6 km
Compact Kolding disco where locals pack the dance floor, mainstream hits fill the speakers and late-night energy turns a modest venue into a full-bodied club night.
Tucan Swinger & wellness Club
9.2 km
Adults-only swinger and wellness retreat in rural Jutland, blending erotic exploration, spa comforts and themed rooms in a discreet, rules-based environment.
Fishi
14.4 km
Compact, no-frills nightclub in Vejen with loud beats, simple drinks and a friendly small-town crowd that keeps the dance floor moving late into the night.
AHA Livestage
19.8 km
Intimate live music and cocktail-driven nightlife in the heart of Fredericia, where high-quality sound and curated events turn selected evenings into standout parties.
Crazy Daisy Vejen
21.3 km
High-energy disco club in central Vejen, bringing late-night music, dancing and big-city nightclub vibes to a compact South Jutland town.
NOX Network Ltd.
21.8 km
Small-city Danish nightclub in Vejle with a central dance floor, upbeat chart music, and a straightforward, late-night party atmosphere.
temabar APS 23-05
24.6 km
Tropical vibes and late-night dancing in Vejle's energetic weekend hotspot.
Horsens New Style Dance Club
42.3 km
Horsens' premier line dancing venue where beginners and advanced dancers unite in movement and community.
Liglad Day & Nightlife
45.3 km
Compact late-night club on Grindsted’s main street, mixing local vibes, DJs and simple drinks for weekend nights that run into the early hours.
PDD
46.7 km
Compact, no-frills nightclub on Lindvigsvej in Horsens, offering late-night dancing, simple drinks and an intimate, local-party atmosphere on weekends.
Oskar hossman
47.3 km
Compact, high-energy nightclub in central Horsens, where pulsing beats, colourful lights and a sociable crowd define the city’s after-hours heartbeat.
Sölibat Natklub
47.7 km
Late-night, no-frills clubbing in central Horsens, where loud music, simple drinks and a compact dance floor create an unapologetically local party vibe.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Casual
- Boutique
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly