Esmée

Esmée is the kind of place that nails the Copenhagen brasserie formula without trying too hard. Chef Andreas Bagh (of Sovino Brands) took the classic French playbook and gave it a light Nordic touch — think La Belle Époque inspiration with polished wood, warm lighting, and green accents that make the room feel both dressed-up and genuinely welcoming. It's on Kongens Nytorv, so you're steps from Nyhavn and the Royal Danish Theatre, which makes it a natural pre-show stop.

Start with their Martini — it's properly made and sets the tone. The garlic bread sounds simple but it's a genuine standout: soft, buttery, and packed with garlic. For mains, the roast chicken with chanterelles walks that line between hearty and refined, but the real showstopper is the truffle mac and cheese. It's creamy, decadent, and those earthy truffle notes stay with you long after you've left. Service is attentive without hovering, and the staff actually know their wine pairings.

Yes, it's on the pricier side, and the restaurant itself admits it can get "a little loud" — but that's part of the lively atmosphere they're going for. Book ahead, especially if you want the outdoor terrace in summer when the city buzz is at its peak. With over 1,600 reviews averaging 4.2+ stars and 49K Instagram followers, this isn't a secret — but it earns the hype.