Otto & Ani's Fisk

A Working Harbor Tradition

Otto & Ani's Fisk sits directly on Havnepladsen, the harbor square in Havneby, steps from where fishing boats unload their daily catch. The establishment operates as both a functional fish market and a casual restaurant, embodying the working character of Rømø's maritime heritage. Fresh fish arrives daily, and the operation maintains its own smokehouse for preparing smoked fish and traditional fish cakes. This dual function—retail fishmonger by day, dining venue by evening—creates an authentic connection between the sea and the table that few coastal restaurants can claim.

The Menu and Kitchen Philosophy

The kitchen focuses on straightforward preparations that let the quality of the fish speak for itself. Pan-fried plaice, sole, and turbot appear alongside smoked salmon, fish fillets, and the signature Rømø platters designed for sharing. Dishes arrive with simple accompaniments: fresh salad, baked potatoes, or crispy fries, with bread and butter included on most plates. Squid rings, battered prawns, and fish cakes round out the offerings. The menu, available in Danish, German, and English, reflects the restaurant's position on a major route for German tourists exploring Denmark's west coast. Prices remain moderate, with main courses typically ranging from 110 to 265 Danish kroner, making fresh seafood accessible rather than exclusive.

Dining with a View

Seating accommodates both indoor and outdoor service, with outdoor tables offering unobstructed views of the harbor, fishing vessels, and the water beyond. The setting captures the essence of a Danish fishing village—unpretentious, functional, and deeply connected to the rhythms of the sea. Weather permitting, the outdoor experience provides an immersive sense of place that transforms a meal into a moment of coastal contemplation. Even in cooler months, the harbor views and fresh sea air create an atmosphere that justifies the pilgrimage for seafood enthusiasts.

Accessibility and Practical Considerations

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible, and free street parking is available nearby, removing common barriers to access. Operating daily from 10:00 to 17:00, the establishment closes relatively early by restaurant standards, reflecting its roots as a working fish market rather than a fine-dining venue. Visitors should note that the kitchen operates on a straightforward schedule and may begin closing procedures as the day winds down. The casual, no-frills service prioritizes efficiency and authenticity over elaborate hospitality, which appeals to travelers seeking genuine local experience over curated tourism.

A Pearl of Rømø

Otto & Ani's Fisk has earned recognition as one of Rømø's essential destinations, attracting both day-trippers and travelers making the island a deliberate stop. The combination of exceptional freshness, fair pricing, harbor location, and unpretentious character has built a loyal following. Visitors consistently praise the quality of the fish and the value, with many describing the experience as a highlight of their time on the island. The restaurant's reputation rests not on innovation or ambition, but on the simple commitment to serving excellent seafood in the place where it is caught.