Pearl by Paul Proffitt
Michelin-starred French cuisine with British charm overlooking Flensborg Fjord
A Michelin-starred restaurant in Kruså, South Jutland, where refined French cuisine meets modern informality. Set in a historic waterfront villa overlooking Flensborg Fjord, this intimate fine-dining establishment serves luxurious comfort food with elegant simplicity. Chef Paul Proffitt, who trained at the renowned Henne Kirkeby Kro, creates seasonal menus that balance technical precision with approachable charm, earning the restaurant its prestigious recognition.
A brief summary to Restaurant Bind
- Fjordvejen 120, Kruså, 6340, DK
- +4574678822
- Visit website
- Duration: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
- Luxury
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 6 pm-9 pm
- Thursday 6 pm-9 pm
- Friday 6 pm-9 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Book well in advance—the restaurant has limited seating and operates only Wednesday through Saturday. Reservations are essential, particularly for weekend dining.
- Arrive early on Saturday to enjoy the lunch service (12:00–16:00), which offers a more relaxed atmosphere than evening seatings while maintaining the same culinary standards.
- Plan to spend 2.5 to 3 hours for the full experience. The tasting menu is designed as a journey, and rushing diminishes the intended progression.
- Request wine pairings if you enjoy wine; the curated selections are chosen specifically to enhance each course rather than simply showcase expensive bottles.
- The fjord views are most striking during daylight hours, so consider the Saturday lunch service if you wish to dine while enjoying the waterfront scenery.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
Restaurant Bind location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Restaurant Bind
From Restaurant Bind to Pearl by Paul Proffitt
For more than three decades, this elegant villa beside Flensborg Fjord operated as Restaurant Bind, a beloved fine-dining destination helmed by restaurateurs Pia and Christian Bind. In 2025, the establishment underwent a transformative rebrand, becoming Pearl by Paul Proffitt under the direction of British chef Paul Proffitt. This transition marked a significant evolution: the restaurant earned its Michelin star in the 2025 Nordic guide, joining an elite group of only eight starred establishments across Denmark that year. The change represents not an abandonment of the location's storied past, but rather a continuation of its legacy of culinary excellence through fresh creative vision.The Philosophy of Elegant Simplicity
Pearl by Paul Proffitt embodies a distinctive approach to fine dining that rejects unnecessary pretension. The kitchen philosophy centers on velsmag—refined taste—combined with British humor and approachable elegance. Rather than overwhelming diners with complexity, the restaurant serves what has been described as luxurious comfort food, delivering Michelin-standard cuisine without the formality or inflated pricing often associated with starred establishments. This balance between ambition and accessibility defines the dining experience, where technical mastery serves the pleasure of the meal rather than overshadowing it.Setting and Atmosphere
The restaurant occupies a distinctive villa positioned directly on the shores of Flensborg Fjord, one of South Jutland's most picturesque natural features. The waterfront location provides a serene backdrop for dining, with views across the fjord creating an atmosphere of quiet sophistication. The interior design merges historical character with contemporary sensibility—honoring the building's heritage while maintaining modern comfort and informality. This blend of old and new extends to the overall ambiance: guests encounter a space that feels both refined and welcoming, where the focus remains on the food and conversation rather than ostentatious decoration.Chef Paul Proffitt's Background and Approach
Prior to opening Pearl by Paul Proffitt, the British chef spent nine years as head chef at Henne Kirkeby Kro, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its innovative approach to Nordic cuisine. This extensive experience at one of Denmark's most celebrated kitchens provided the foundation for his culinary vision. His appointment to Pearl by Paul Proffitt demonstrates a principle common in fine dining: culinary excellence and recognition follow the chef when quality is maintained. Proffitt's tenure at Henne Kirkeby Kro established his credentials for precision, creativity, and the ability to work at the highest levels of professional gastronomy.Seasonal Menus and Culinary Focus
The restaurant operates primarily on a tasting menu format, with offerings that shift seasonally to reflect ingredient availability and creative inspiration. This approach allows the kitchen to work with the finest seasonal produce while maintaining flexibility in menu development. The wine program is carefully curated, with selections chosen to complement the food rather than simply showcase expensive bottles. Portions are thoughtfully proportioned, reflecting contemporary fine-dining standards that prioritize quality over quantity.Location and Regional Significance
Situated in Kruså, a small municipality in South Jutland near the German border, Pearl by Paul Proffitt represents a significant culinary anchor for the region. South Jutland has historically been underrepresented in Denmark's fine-dining landscape, making the arrival of a Michelin-starred establishment particularly noteworthy. The restaurant's presence elevates the area's gastronomic profile and draws food-focused travelers from across Scandinavia and beyond.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Foundation country Schäferhaus
13.5 km
Explore the serene beauty of Foundation country Schaeferhaus, a nature preserve in Flensburg, perfect for relaxation, education, and wildlife observation.
Befrielsessten i Vester Sottrup
15.1 km
A quiet stone marking Denmark's liberation and Vester Sottrup's wartime legacy.
Genforeningsmærke på Dybbøl Skanse II
16.5 km
Memorial marker honoring Danish reunification and the 1864 battle's fallen defenders on a historic fortification site.
Tysk skanse X
16.6 km
Stille jordvolde på Dybbøl Banke, hvor en tysk skanse fortæller om tiden efter 1864 og fæstningsringen, der engang omklamrede Sønderborg.
King's Redoubt
16.6 km
A preserved 1864 military fortress symbolizing Danish resilience and regional heritage.
Mindesten for Røde Kors
16.8 km
A quiet memorial to the world's first Red Cross observers amid Denmark's most historic battlefield.
Iskonditoriet
18.8 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.
Windmill
18.9 km
Denmark's iconic windmill and national symbol of resilience, rebuilt after war and transformed into a living museum of history.
Papirgalleriet v/Gitte Kristjansen
19.0 km
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
19.0 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.
Mindesten for korporal Hammerström og konstabel Frederiksen
19.1 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.
Sønderborg Kommunale Kommandocentral
19.4 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
19.6 km
Discreet harborfront memorial in Sønderborg honoring eleven young German sailors executed for mutiny in 1945, inviting quiet reflection on conscience and war.
Kriegerdenkmal
38.4 km
Discover the rich history of Schleswig at Kriegerdenkmal, a poignant monument honoring soldiers and their sacrifices in a serene, beautiful setting.
Schleswig Holstein Denkmal
38.9 km
Explore the historical significance and serene atmosphere of the Schleswig Holstein Denkmal, a must-visit heritage site in Schleswig.
Unmissable attractions to see
Forfyr Rinkenæs
5.6 km
Step into Denmark’s history at Historiecenter Dybbøl Banke, where reconstructed fortifications and interactive exhibits bring the dramatic events of 1864 vividly to life.
Halbinsel Holnis
6.1 km
Experience the serene landscapes and rich wildlife of Halbinsel Holnis, a tranquil nature preserve on the beautiful Baltic Sea coast of Germany.
Flensburg kinetic sculpture
8.9 km
Experience the enchanting Flensburg kinetic sculpture—where art meets engineering in a stunning display of movement and creativity in the heart of the city.
Nordertor
9.0 km
Discover the charm of Nordertor, Flensburg's historic landmark, a gateway to the city's medieval past and vibrant culture.
PHÄNOMENTA
9.0 km
Experience the magic of science at PHÄNOMENTA, Flensburg's interactive museum where learning meets fun for all ages.
Museumswerft Flensburg gemeinnützige GmbH
9.0 km
Explore the maritime past at Museumswerft Flensburg, where shipbuilding history and cultural heritage meet in a stunning waterfront setting.
Gråsten Palace
9.0 km
Rococo royal summer residence in Southern Jutland, set amid romantic English-style gardens, lakes and woodland, with palace views and a richly decorated church.
Flensburger Schifffahrtsmuseum
9.1 km
Explore Flensburg's rich maritime history at the Flensburger Schifffahrtsmuseum, where captivating exhibits and interactive displays await.
Gråstenskovene
9.3 km
A sweeping belt of lakes, beech woods and gentle hills wrapped around Gråsten, blending royal parkland with quietly scenic Southern Jutland forest.
Museumsberg Flensburg
9.8 km
A hilltop twin museum where North German art, historic interiors and church treasures reveal the layered culture of the Flensburg border region.
Istedløven
10.0 km
Explore Istedløven, Flensburg’s iconic lion monument, a symbol of valor and history amidst scenic surroundings.
St. Nikolai Kirche zu Flensburg der Ev.-Luth. St. Nikolai-Kirchengemeinde Flensburg
10.0 km
Brick Gothic grandeur, Baroque artistry and one of northern Europe’s most remarkable organs make St. Nikolai the spiritual and architectural heartbeat of Flensburg.
Historische Hinterhöfe
10.2 km
Uncover the charm of Flensburg's Historische Hinterhöfe, a captivating attraction with historic courtyards, local shops, and rich cultural experiences.
Nøffelskoven med træskulpturer
13.0 km
Small, sculpture-filled Nøffelskoven is a young forest playground of winding paths, wooden art, fire circle and shelters between Sønderborg and Gråsten.
Nybøl Mølle
13.4 km
A hilltop windmill where traditional engineering, borderland battles and quiet fields meet in a single white tower north of Nybøl.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Bind
0.0 km
Michelin-starred Nordic cuisine in a historic fjord-side villa, where fresh ingredients and open-kitchen artistry meet modern hospitality.
Restaurant Quellental
3.3 km
Experience exquisite German and Scandinavian cuisine at Restaurant Quellental in Glücksburg, with stunning views of the Baltic Sea.
Das Grace
6.6 km
Experience culinary artistry at Das Grace with stunning waterfront views in Flensburg's finest dining establishment.
Den Gamle Skomager
8.7 km
Laid-back Danish bodega in central Gråsten, mixing hearty comfort food, cold beer and small-town hygge in a lived-in, locals-first setting.
Den Gamle Kro
8.7 km
A traditional Danish inn in central Gråsten, blending nostalgic kro charm, hearty regional cooking and simple rooms a short stroll from the town’s royal castle.
Byens Pizza & Grill Dybbøl - Sønderborg
18.0 km
Experience the best pizza, barbecue, and burgers in Sønderborg at Byens Pizza & Grill Dybbøl – where flavor meets comfort!
Ballebro Færgekro
18.3 km
Historic waterside inn and restaurant on the shores of Als Fjord, blending nostalgic 1890s charm, refined seasonal cuisine and deep Sønderjysk tranquility.
Restaurant Sundhalle V/Eva Iversen
18.6 km
Relaxed harborfront restaurant in Sønderborg serving hearty Danish comfort food and pub classics in a cozy, down-to-earth bar atmosphere by the water.
Grey Ghost ApS
18.8 km
Candlelit Danish brasserie in Sønderborg’s old town, blending hygge, seasonal cooking and carefully chosen wines in a warm, intimate setting.
Karikatur Restaurant og Bar i Sønderborg
18.8 km
Modern Nordic plates and inventive cocktails come together in a clean-lined, harbor-close restaurant that anchors Sønderborg’s contemporary dining scene.
Restaurant Alsik
18.8 km
Contemporary waterfront restaurant in the Alsik Hotel, blending South Jutland ingredients with classic European flavours in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Bistro Grand Mère
18.8 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.
Syttende
18.8 km
Michelin-starred sky dining on the 17th floor of Alsik, where New Nordic cuisine meets sweeping waterfront views over Sønderborg and Alssund.
Restaurant Colosseum
18.8 km
Harbourfront Danish comfort food in a cosy, family-friendly setting with views over Sønderborg’s waterfront and a welcoming slice of Southern Jutland hygge.
Promenaden - Is med udsigt
18.8 km
Casual harbourfront ice cream and hot dogs with wide-open views towards Sønderborg Castle, outdoor seating only and a playful, family-friendly seaside atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Förde Park
12.4 km
Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Förde Park, Flensburg's top destination for fashion, food, and family fun.
Scandinavian Park
14.3 km
Explore Scandinavian Park, a unique hypermarket near the German-Danish border offering diverse Scandinavian products and local delicacies.
Mr Klausen Herre-og Drengetøj
19.1 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
19.1 km
Compact Danish fashion and lingerie boutique on Sønderborg’s main pedestrian street, combining everyday practicality with relaxed, personal service.
Jim P.
19.1 km
Curated fashion for discerning shoppers seeking distinctive style beyond the mainstream.
Viller
19.1 km
Independent women’s fashion boutique on Sønderborg’s main pedestrian street, blending Scandinavian style, curated brands and personal, one-to-one service.
Tøjeksperten
19.2 km
Denmark's largest menswear chain brings premium brands and accessible style to central Sønderborg.
Kop & Kande
19.2 km
Welcoming Danish homeware and gift shop on Sønderborg’s main street, stocked with practical kitchen essentials, stylish tableware and thoughtful presents.
JACK & JONES
19.2 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
19.2 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.
Gundtoft Sønderborg
19.2 km
Classic women's fashion since 1957, nestled on Sønderborg's charming pedestrian street.
Borgen
19.2 km
Sønderborg's complete shopping experience: 40 stores, dining, cinema, and culture under one roof.
Normal
19.2 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.
Juhl Bolighus A / S
19.2 km
A vast Danish design furniture house in Sønderborg’s historic center, blending showroom and museum to showcase timeless craftsmanship and iconic interiors.
Noa Noa
19.2 km
A small Danish fashion boutique on Sønderborg’s main street, showcasing Noa Noa’s feminine, bohemian-inspired style in a calm, easy-to-browse setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tinsoldaten/Kim Jakobsen
17.3 km
An unpretentious neighborhood bar in central Sønderborg, offering simple drinks, local color and a relaxed glimpse of everyday Danish nightlife.
Caféen
18.5 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
18.8 km
Harbourfront hotel bar with Nordic myth touches, crafted drinks and hygge-rich lounge seating overlooking Sønderborg’s Alssund and skyline.
Visselulles Vinbar
18.8 km
Intimate waterfront wine bar showcasing world-class vintages and French-inspired ambiance in historic Sønderborg.
Nebula.dk ApS
18.9 km
Atmospheric shisha lounge and cocktail bar in Sønderborg’s historic center, offering intimate lighting, cozy seating and slow-paced evenings for adults.
New Orleans Jazz I Sønderborg
18.9 km
Intimate, association-run jazz club in central Sønderborg, serving up New Orleans–inspired live music, close-up performances and a friendly, community atmosphere.
Rabalder Bar - Sønderborg
19.0 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.
Penny Lane Sønderborg
19.0 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.
Old Danish Pub
19.0 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.
SKAAL Sønderborg
19.0 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.
Bar' Vinbar
19.0 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.
Heidi's Bier Bar Sønderborg
19.1 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.
Den Lille Vinbar
19.1 km
Cosy fromagerie-style wine bar on Perlegade, pairing carefully selected bottles with generous cheese tapas in an intimate, continental-feeling corner of Sønderborg.
the tea house
19.2 km
South Jutland's premier bubble tea destination with customizable flavors and signature boba varieties.
Restaurant Viking - Pool and billiards Sønderborg
19.5 km
Authentic Danish neighborhood pub where locals gather for affordable drinks, billiards, and genuine community atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Dance All Over
16.1 km
Sønderborg’s sociable dance hub, where fitness, swing and party-ready moves come together in energetic, community-driven classes across the city.
Kaizen ApS
18.9 km
Compact disco-style nightclub in central Sønderborg, pulsing with late-night beats, colourful lights and a straightforward bar for an unpretentious night out.
Ela-Ela Schleswig
37.2 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Schleswig at Ela-Ela, where music and dancing come alive in an unforgettable disco experience.
VILLA PRESTIGE Schleswig
37.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at VILLA PRESTIGE Schleswig, a lively night club perfect for dancing and socializing until dawn.
TANZ-FABRIK / Tanzlokal
38.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Schleswig at TANZ-FABRIK, where music and dance create unforgettable memories every Saturday night.
Al Capone
41.2 km
Tønder’s sole nightclub, Al Capone blends a rustic 1920s‑inspired mood, late‑night beats and strong drinks into an intimate speakeasy‑style party den.
P2 Champagne & Cocktail Tønder
41.3 km
Intimate champagne and cocktail lounge bringing late-night sparkle and city-style glamour to the historic heart of Tønder.
Discothek Vineta
42.8 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Busdorf at Discothek Vineta, where vibrant music and dancing await in a welcoming atmosphere.
Ærø Golf Klub
46.5 km
Distinctive links course on Ærø’s northwest cape, blending historic lighthouse views, Nordic coastlines, and a classic Danish golfing challenge.
Ærø Whiskey Destilleri
58.2 km
Experience the artisanal charm of Ærø Whisky Distillery in Ærøskøbing, where local ingredients and traditional methods create unique island whiskies.
Ærø Jazzfestival
58.3 km
Experience the soul of Danish jazz at Ærø Jazzfestival, where international rhythms meet island heritage in the historic harbor of Ærøskøbing each summer.
Cheyenne-Club
61.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Cheyenne-Club in Rendsburg, the ultimate disco club and restaurant for an unforgettable evening.
Ommel
63.0 km
A small, sociable island nightspot near Marstal where locals and travelers share quiet drinks, simple music and the easygoing charm of Ærø after dark.
Romo Golf Links
65.4 km
Romo Golf Links offers an authentic coastal golf experience amid the windswept dunes and wild beauty of Rømø, blending challenging play with stunning North Sea views.
Rømø Lege- & Labyrintpark
65.6 km
Discover outdoor mazes, creative playgrounds, and family-friendly amusements at Rømø’s most imaginative recreation park, nestled in coastal nature near Havneby.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Adults Only