Cafe Stjernen
Hearty Danish café classics, candlelit brasserie ambience and specialty beers in the heart of Sønderborg’s compact historic centre.
Cafe Stjernen is a warmly lit brasserie-style restaurant in the heart of Sønderborg, known for hearty Danish classics, generous portions and a relaxed, grown-up café vibe. Set on Store Rådhusgade near the harbor and town hall, it pairs comforting favourites like the famous “stjerneskud” and pariserbøf with specialty beers and casual wines. Wooden interiors, candles and close-set tables create an intimate, buzzy atmosphere ideal for easygoing dinners, informal dates or small groups looking for an unpretentious local spot.
A brief summary to Cafe Stjernen
- Store Rådhusgade 2A, Sønderborg, 6400, DK
- +4553791541
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 4:30 pm-9 pm
- Tuesday 4:30 pm-9:30 pm
- Wednesday 4 pm-10 pm
- Thursday 4:30 pm-10:30 pm
- Friday 3:30 pm-12 am
- Saturday 12 pm-12 am
- Sunday 12 pm-9 pm
Local tips
- Try the signature stjerneskud or pariserbøf if you want a classic, hearty Danish café dish in a generous portion.
- For beer lovers, opt for a tasting board of specialty brews to sample several styles alongside your meal.
- Evenings on Fridays and Saturdays can be busy; consider arriving early for dinner or reserving if you are a group.
- Plan this as an unrushed stop: allow at least a couple of hours to eat, talk and enjoy the cosy atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Cafe Stjernen 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
Discover more about Cafe Stjernen
A cosy brasserie in the middle of Sønderborg
Cafe Stjernen sits on Store Rådhusgade, one of Sønderborg’s central streets, a short wander from both the waterfront and the compact old town. From the outside it looks like a classic Danish café-brasserie, with large windows, soft lighting and often a chalkboard or two hinting at the day’s temptations. Inside, the atmosphere is informal but well put together, with wooden tables, dark chairs and candles lending a warm glow that makes it feel welcoming even on a grey South Jutland day. The space is arranged to feel intimate without being cramped, with smaller tables for two along the windows and more flexible seating in the middle for families or groups of friends. The soundtrack is usually low and unobtrusive, letting conversation take the lead. It is the kind of place where people settle in for a full evening rather than rushing through a quick meal.Classic Danish favourites with a generous hand
The kitchen focuses on comforting café dishes with a distinctly Danish accent. One of the signatures is the **stjerneskud**, the beloved open-faced fish dish that combines fried and steamed fish fillets with shrimp, asparagus and a creamy dressing on rye or white bread. Here it tends to be served in an especially ample version, sometimes in XL size, making it a natural choice if you are hungry. Meat lovers gravitate towards the pariserbøf, a pan-fried minced beef patty served on butter-toasted bread with traditional garnishes. Alongside you can expect burgers, salads, perhaps a steak or two and seasonal touches that keep the menu from feeling static. Portions lean on the hearty side, so sharing a starter or skipping straight to a main course is common for lighter appetites.From specialty beers to relaxed evening drinks
Cafe Stjernen also puts some emphasis on drinkable pleasures. The bar usually offers a line-up of specialty beers, often including a tasting board where you can sample several smaller glasses instead of committing to a single brew. This suits the brasserie character of the place, sitting somewhere between café and casual bar. Wine and classic café drinks round out the list, so you can as easily accompany your meal with a glass of red as you can linger over a beer flight. The mood builds gently towards the later evening on Fridays and Saturdays, when the opening hours stretch towards midnight, yet it rarely tips into full late-night bar territory.Daily rhythm and best times to enjoy it
On weekdays the doors open in the late afternoon, positioning Cafe Stjernen squarely as a dinner spot rather than a breakfast or early lunch venue. Wednesdays and Thursdays tend to feel like leisurely local evenings, when you can take your time over a meal without much hurry. From Friday afternoon the pace picks up as people slide from after-work drinks into dinner, and Saturdays from midday see a mix of daytime diners and evening guests. Sundays, with shorter opening hours, are more relaxed again, often suiting an unhurried early dinner before the new week begins.Local character in a compact historic town
Sønderborg is a small coastal town, which gives Cafe Stjernen a distinctly local feel. You will likely hear a mix of Danish and German at the tables, especially in summer when South Jutland attracts visitors from across the border. The café’s position near the town hall and main streets makes it a natural stop during a day of exploring the harbour, castle or nearby beaches. Because the dining room is not huge, it can feel pleasantly lively when full, adding to the sense that you have found a neighbourhood favourite rather than a generic chain. It offers a snapshot of everyday Danish café culture: unfussy, filling food, candlelight and a focus on simply enjoying time at the table.Practical notes for planning a visit
Cafe Stjernen is a sit-down restaurant with table service, and it operates within the typical Danish price range for a central brasserie in a mid-size town. Mains sit in the moderate bracket and there is usually enough variety to suit both those seeking a substantial plate and those content with a lighter dish and a drink. The location on a central street means you are close to other amenities in town, from shops to the waterfront promenade. While the space is at street level, tables are fairly close together and there can be a step at the threshold, so wheelchair users may wish to check accessibility details in advance. Overall, it is best approached as a relaxed evening spot to settle in for a couple of hours over good, solid café cooking.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Papirgalleriet v/Gitte Kristjansen
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A vibrant family-friendly playground in central Roskilde, Byparkens Legeplads offers open-air fun, creativity, and relaxation in the heart of the city’s beloved Byparken.
Memory stone
0.1 km
A modest monument on Sønderborg’s town-hall square, the Memory Stone offers a quiet pause for reflection amid the everyday bustle of this historic border town.
Windmill
0.2 km
Denmark's iconic windmill and national symbol of resilience, rebuilt after war and transformed into a living museum of history.
Iskonditoriet
0.2 km
Byparkens Legeplads in Roskilde fuses creative play equipment and green park scenery for a free, family-friendly experience in the heart of the historic Danish city.
Sønderborg Kommunale Kommandocentral
0.5 km
Hidden beneath Kongevej lies Sønderborg’s former Cold War nerve center, an underground command bunker built to keep the city running in times of crisis.
Gedenkstein für hingerichtete Widerstandskämpfer
1.7 km
Discreet harborfront memorial in Sønderborg honoring eleven young German sailors executed for mutiny in 1945, inviting quiet reflection on conscience and war.
Mindesten for korporal Hammerström og konstabel Frederiksen
2.2 km
A modest stone on Sønderborg’s former shooting range honouring two fallen wartime servicemen, inviting a brief but powerful pause for remembrance and reflection.
Mindesten for Røde Kors
2.2 km
A quiet memorial to the world's first Red Cross observers amid Denmark's most historic battlefield.
Tysk skanse X
2.4 km
Stille jordvolde på Dybbøl Banke, hvor en tysk skanse fortæller om tiden efter 1864 og fæstningsringen, der engang omklamrede Sønderborg.
King's Redoubt
2.4 km
A preserved 1864 military fortress symbolizing Danish resilience and regional heritage.
Genforeningsmærke på Dybbøl Skanse II
2.5 km
Memorial marker honoring Danish reunification and the 1864 battle's fallen defenders on a historic fortification site.
Befrielsessten i Vester Sottrup
7.1 km
A quiet stone marking Denmark's liberation and Vester Sottrup's wartime legacy.
Foundation country Schäferhaus
30.6 km
Explore the serene beauty of Foundation country Schaeferhaus, a nature preserve in Flensburg, perfect for relaxation, education, and wildlife observation.
Bregninge Kirke
33.4 km
Medieval island church on a gentle Ærø hillside, where whitewashed stone, quiet fields and seafaring stories meet in a calm, contemplative setting.
Forladt skorsten
34.2 km
A haunting brick ruin marking Ærø's vanished industrial era, standing silent on the island's edge.
Unmissable attractions to see
Visselulles Have
0.1 km
Small in size but rich in stories, Visselulles Have is a tranquil memorial garden that honours Sønderborg’s legendary female dockworker in her old neighbourhood.
Genforeningssten i Sønderborg
0.2 km
A monumental tribute to Denmark's 1920 reunification, nestled near historic Sønderborg Castle.
Spanske trappe
0.2 km
A once-grey stairway turned into a colourful nature mural, the Spanske Trappe is Sønderborg’s playful urban shortcut and small-scale landmark between two city streets.
Sønderborg Castle
0.3 km
Centuries of royal drama, borderland wars and Southern Jutland stories unfold inside this waterfront fortress‑turned‑museum on the Alssund.
Historiske Vandringer – På sporet af 1. verdenskrig
0.3 km
A quiet harbour walk in Sønderborg that traces the invisible footprints of World War I through barracks, memorials and everyday streets in a former borderland town.
Ringridermuseet i Sønderborg
0.3 km
Danmarks eneste ringridermuseum i et bindingsværkshus fra 1643, hvor lanser, medaljer og lokale fortællinger bringer Sønderborgs festlige tradition til live.
Sønderborg Beach
0.4 km
Pristine Danish beach with family-friendly waters, stunning sunsets, and a diving pier—perfect for seaside relaxation and photography.
Vægmalerierne på Nørre Havnegade
0.4 km
Colorful gable murals on Sønderborg’s harborfront, where evolving large-scale artworks turn an everyday building into a vivid portrait of local life and heritage.
Fluepapiret
0.4 km
A compact, unspoiled urban beach where locals gather to swim in the Baltic's gentle waters.
Selfiebænken - Big yellow
0.4 km
Sønderborg's cheerful yellow bench—a playful symbol of local creativity and the perfect photo moment.
Hønekilden
0.5 km
A tiny harbor-side spring where pure water, royal engineering and whispering legends blur into a tranquil urban nook of art and history.
Sønderborghus
0.5 km
Cosy cultural house in central Sønderborg, blending live music, creative workshops and a welcoming café into one relaxed, community-focused venue.
Dybbøl Strand
0.6 km
A peaceful Danish strand where sandy shores meet centuries of history and heritage.
Rønhaveplads
0.6 km
A peaceful, local-favorite park offering tranquil ponds, leafy lawns, and family-friendly relaxation just outside Sønderborg’s city center. Free, welcoming, and authentic.
Deutsches Museum Nordschleswig
0.6 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Sønderborg at Deutsches Museum Nordschleswig, where history and interactive exhibits come to life.
Essential places to dine
Cafe Stjernen
0.0 km
Hearty Danish café classics, candlelit brasserie ambience and specialty beers in the heart of Sønderborg’s compact historic centre.
Niso Sushi ApS
0.0 km
Lively running-sushi and Vietnamese restaurant in the heart of Sønderborg, serving endless plates of sushi and Asian bites in a relaxed, central setting.
Fox And Hounds
0.0 km
Scottish-style gastropub in central Sønderborg, pairing hearty ribs, burgers and steaks with an expansive beer and whisky selection in a warm, wood-paneled setting.
Lazy Dog Burgers - Worldclass Burgers from Sønderborg
0.0 km
World-class burgers and cocktails in the heart of historic Sønderborg
Restaurant Da Nico
0.1 km
Authentic Italian brick-oven pizza and homemade pasta in the heart of Sønderborg.
Biehl
0.1 km
Honest Danish comfort food in the heart of Sønderborg's main street.
Hotel Bella Italia
0.1 km
A cozy Nordic-style boutique stay with a lively Italian trattoria downstairs, set right in the historic heart of Sønderborg.
Bella Italia
0.1 km
Cozy Italian restaurant and small hotel in Sønderborg’s historic heart, pairing brick-vaulted charm with classic pizzas, pasta, and relaxed evening dining.
Mongolian Barbecue
0.1 km
Create-your-own stir-fries on a sizzling grill at this lively Asian buffet in central Sønderborg, mixing Mongolian barbecue theatre with Chinese favourites and casual comfort.
The Grand Café
0.1 km
Elegant Danish dining on Sønderborg's main square, where refined cuisine meets genuine hospitality.
Karikatur Restaurant og Bar i Sønderborg
0.1 km
Design‑savvy Nordic dining and inventive cocktails in a stylish corner space near Sønderborg’s harbor, blending seasonal cuisine with a relaxed, urban bar vibe.
Grey Ghost ApS
0.1 km
Candlelit Danish brasserie in Sønderborg’s old town, blending hygge, seasonal cooking and carefully chosen wines in a warm, intimate setting.
Kong Kian Sønderborg
0.2 km
Central Sønderborg fast‑casual spot for roasted chicken, spareribs and build‑your‑own sandwiches, serving from lunchtime through late night right on Rådhustorvet.
Marcello's
0.2 km
All‑day café, steakhouse and cocktail bar on Sønderborg’s central square, blending generous plates, easygoing drinks and relaxed people‑watching on Rådhustorvet.
Bistro Grand Mère
0.2 km
Harborfront French bistro in Sønderborg, blending classic Gallic comfort dishes, thoughtful wines and a cozy green-paneled setting with views of the lively marina.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mr Klausen Herre-og Drengetøj
0.3 km
Classic Danish mens- and boyswear on Sønderborg’s Perlegade, blending everyday essentials, occasion outfits and local Ringridning traditions in one friendly shop.
Twizt Fashion
0.3 km
Compact Danish fashion and lingerie boutique on Sønderborg’s main pedestrian street, combining everyday practicality with relaxed, personal service.
Jim P.
0.3 km
Curated fashion for discerning shoppers seeking distinctive style beyond the mainstream.
Normal
0.3 km
Bright, budget‑friendly beauty and everyday essentials in the heart of Borgen Shopping, perfect for quick top‑ups and casual browsing between Sønderborg sights.
JACK & JONES
0.3 km
Straightforward Scandinavian menswear in the heart of Borgen Shopping, ideal for denim, casual basics and smart-casual outfits under one convenient indoor roof.
Zizzi - Sønderborg
0.3 km
Modern plus-size fashion for women in the heart of Sønderborg’s Borgen Shopping centre, combining Scandinavian style, generous sizing and friendly fit-focused advice.
Borgen
0.3 km
Sønderborg's complete shopping experience: 40 stores, dining, cinema, and culture under one roof.
Viller
0.3 km
Independent women’s fashion boutique on Sønderborg’s main pedestrian street, blending Scandinavian style, curated brands and personal, one-to-one service.
NEYE Borgen
0.3 km
Modern Danish bag and luggage specialist in Borgen Shopping, offering quality brands, expert guidance and everyday purchases that help fund cancer research.
ONLY
0.3 km
Scandinavian high-street style, denim-focused collections and easy everyday fashion inside Borgen Shopping in the heart of Sønderborg.
Tøjeksperten
0.3 km
Denmark's largest menswear chain brings premium brands and accessible style to central Sønderborg.
Gundtoft Sønderborg
0.4 km
Classic women's fashion since 1957, nestled on Sønderborg's charming pedestrian street.
Kings & Queens
0.4 km
Contemporary multi-brand fashion in central Sønderborg, blending Scandinavian style, casual streetwear, and easygoing boutique vibes for men and women.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.4 km
Scandinavian creativity and affordable joy in Sønderborg's premier shopping destination.
Vero Moda
0.4 km
Contemporary Scandinavian women’s fashion inside Borgen Shopping, offering wearable trends, layering pieces and accessories in Sønderborg’s central retail district.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nebula.dk ApS
0.0 km
Atmospheric shisha lounge and cocktail bar in Sønderborg’s historic center, offering intimate lighting, cozy seating and slow-paced evenings for adults.
Penny Lane Sønderborg
0.1 km
Lively late‑night bar in central Sønderborg serving cocktails, beer and loud tunes from evening warm‑up to near‑club energy on weekend nights.
Rabalder Bar - Sønderborg
0.1 km
Tiny in size but big on volume, Rabalder Bar Sønderborg packs sing‑along hits, simple drinks and late‑night energy into one compact old‑town party den.
SKAAL Sønderborg
0.1 km
Modern craft beer bar and kitchen on Sønderborg’s main square, pouring rotating Danish brews and serving hearty comfort food in a stylish, urban setting.
Old Danish Pub
0.2 km
Classic hygge-filled pub near Sønderborg’s main square, with affordable drinks, games, sports on screen and lively karaoke evenings on two cosy floors.
Heidi's Bier Bar Sønderborg
0.2 km
Loud alpine-themed beer hall and late-night party bar bringing après-ski energy, big steins and sing-along hits to Sønderborg’s central Rådhustorvet.
Visselulles Vinbar
0.2 km
Intimate waterfront wine bar showcasing world-class vintages and French-inspired ambiance in historic Sønderborg.
Bar' Vinbar
0.2 km
Central Sønderborg’s relaxed corner wine bar, pouring around 50 wines by the glass plus cocktails, coffee and light bites in a warm, informal atmosphere.
the tea house
0.3 km
South Jutland's premier bubble tea destination with customizable flavors and signature boba varieties.
Den Lille Vinbar
0.3 km
Cosy fromagerie-style wine bar on Perlegade, pairing carefully selected bottles with generous cheese tapas in an intimate, continental-feeling corner of Sønderborg.
New Orleans Jazz I Sønderborg
0.6 km
Intimate, association-run jazz club in central Sønderborg, serving up New Orleans–inspired live music, close-up performances and a friendly, community atmosphere.
Restaurant Viking - Pool and billiards Sønderborg
0.7 km
Authentic Danish neighborhood pub where locals gather for affordable drinks, billiards, and genuine community atmosphere.
Værtshus Chr. Iv
0.8 km
Classic brown beer hall on Sønderborg’s main street, serving simple drinks, local atmosphere and everyday Danish hygge from late morning into the evening.
Caféen
0.8 km
Lively, low‑priced bar inside Sønderborg’s Alsion complex, where students and locals meet for music, dancing and late‑night drinks by the harbour.
Freia Bar & Lounge
0.8 km
Harbourfront hotel bar with Nordic myth touches, crafted drinks and hygge-rich lounge seating overlooking Sønderborg’s Alssund and skyline.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
