VIVI Mad- & Vinbar

Wine, warmth and good food in the heart of Silkeborg

VIVI Mad- & Vinbar sits on Nygade, one of Silkeborg’s central streets, and feels immediately inviting as you step inside from the cobbled town centre. The room is cosy rather than grand, with closely spaced tables, flickering candles and shelves stacked with bottles framing the scene. Light from the street filters in through the front windows, adding to the sense that this is a local meeting place as much as a restaurant. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal, a blend of neighbourhood hangout and dedicated wine spot. You can drop in for a single glass at the bar, settle into a corner for a long conversation, or make it the focus of an evening out in town. Low lighting and soft background music make it particularly appealing for couples and small groups who enjoy an intimate setting.

From snacks to sharing plates and stone-baked pizza

The menu leans towards modern European bistro cooking, with a noticeable Italian influence. You can expect snacks suited to wine – think charcuterie, cheese boards and small dishes ideal for sharing – alongside heartier plates and pizzas from the oven. The focus is on flavourful, well-prepared food rather than excessive complexity, making it easy to order a relaxed spread for the table. Seasonal ingredients often guide the offerings, with changing toppings and daily specials keeping things interesting for returning guests. Portions are designed to encourage sharing, which suits the social layout of the room. Whether you come hungry for a full dinner or just want something to complement a glass of red, the kitchen provides flexible options.

A carefully chosen selection of wines by the glass

As the name suggests, wine is central to the experience at VIVI. Behind the bar you will find bottles from classic European regions alongside newer discoveries, with a rotating selection poured by the glass. This allows you to explore different styles over the course of an evening without committing to a full bottle each time. Staff are typically happy to help guests navigate the list, suggesting pairings or introducing lesser-known grapes to the curious. Beer and a few simple mixed drinks are normally available, but the emphasis remains firmly on wine as the natural partner to the food and the mood of the room.

Evening rhythms and late-night conversations

The bar usually opens for the afternoon and early evening on Thursdays, expanding hours on Fridays and Saturdays to carry through to after midnight. As the night progresses, the atmosphere subtly shifts from relaxed dining to more of a late-evening wine bar feel, with conversations stretching out and new arrivals taking a seat for a final glass before heading home. Weekends can feel lively but not hectic, with a mix of locals starting or ending their night here. The compact size of the space means it can fill quickly, adding to the bustle and the sense that you have stepped into a favourite local address rather than a large, impersonal venue.

Who will enjoy VIVI Mad- & Vinbar most

VIVI particularly suits adults looking for a relaxed, grown-up place to enjoy good wine and food without formality. Couples find it an easy choice for a date night in Silkeborg, while small groups of friends appreciate the shareable menu and convivial seating. Its central location makes it convenient to fold into a broader evening in town, whether you are starting with an early glass before a cultural event or ending the night with dessert and a digestif. For visitors exploring Silkeborg’s lakes and galleries by day, this intimate bar-restaurant offers a welcoming place to slow down and enjoy the city’s more indulgent side after dark.