Top 10 Must-Visit Bars in Copenhagen

Ruby is often regarded as the granddaddy of Copenhagen’s cocktail scene, and it’s easy to see why. Set in a charming townhouse near Nyhavn, Ruby exudes old-world elegance while offering some of the city’s most innovative and meticulously crafted drinks. The intimate setting, with leather armchairs and candlelit tables, invites you to linger over cocktails that highlight fresh, local ingredients, a true indulgence for any drinker.

“Ruby has become an institution in the Copenhagen bar scene, not just by existing for a long time but by upholding high quality all these years,” he says. “They represented Copenhagen in the Top 50 Best Bars many years before the Nordic buzz started. They are creative, but what makes them earn their top spot is that comfort in their consistency—good service, good cocktails.”

In the heart of the ultra-trendy Vesterbro neighborhood is Curfew, a speakeasy-style bar that blends Art Deco-inspired decor with a spectacular cocktail menu. Imagined by award-winning mixologist Humberto Marques, Curfew is known for putting a modern twist on classic cocktails, with drinks like the ‘Aquavit Sour’ and ‘Old Cuban’ capturing the imagination of locals and visitors alike.

Rehal highlights Curfew’s unique appeal, noting that the bar’s strong thematic expression, inspired by the glamour and secrecy of Prohibition-era speakeasies, sets it apart in Copenhagen. “It’s the only bar we have that has such a strong conceptual expression from start to finish, focusing on the roaring ‘20s and ‘30s with a hidden entrance, uniforms, live music, vintage bar gear, and a cocktail list to support it all,” he explains. “Even though the speakeasy-themed bars might have had their time, Curfew deserves all the attention due to the excellent execution and quality.”

Gensyn, in Frederiksberg, is the Danish equivalent of the Cheers bar, “where everybody knows your name.” The interior’s mix of vintage furniture and soft lighting makes it feel like a home away from home, while the drink menu focuses on classic cocktails with a modern twist. Regular events like quiz nights and live music add to the bar’s charm, making it a beloved local waterhole.

Rehal highlights Gensyn’s success in preserving the cozy feeling of traditional Danish “Brune Værtshuse” (brown pubs), combining it with a non-pretentious yet high-quality selection of spirits and cocktails. “Denmark has a long and proud history of what we call Brune Værtshuse,” Rehal explains. “They have slowly started to die out, but Gensyn has found a way to preserve some of that cozy feeling. Danish hygge, a casual setting, and a non-pretentious yet quality selection of spirits and cocktails make this bar a great place to visit.”

Brus, nestled in the trendy Nørrebro district, is a haven for beer lovers. This bar and brewery seamlessly blend a laid-back vibe with a spacious, industrial-chic ambiance, making it the perfect spot to savor a diverse selection of beers brewed on-site. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, Brus offers something for every palate, along with innovative beer cocktails and elevated pub fare.

With communal tables and a lively outdoor terrace, Brus is the ideal spot to unwind with friends, promising a casual yet satisfying drinking experience. “Brus is a place that has managed to make craft beer not just accessible but also exciting,” says Rehal. “It’s a bar where the love for beer is evident in every aspect, from the brewing process to the ambiance.”

Inside the elegant Hotel Sanders, TATA adds a touch of old-world glamour to Copenhagen’s bar scene. Named after the iconic red velvet curtains of the nearby Royal Danish Theatre, TATA’s luxurious interior features plush seating and warm lighting. The cocktail menu blends classic and modern creations, with highlights like the ‘Green Tea Gimlet.’ TATA brings that high-end cocktail experience to Copenhagen while maintaining the Danish hygge (there’s that word again!) that keeps the atmosphere inviting and comfortable.

“Almost all capitals worldwide have high-end, high-quality cocktail bars, yet Copenhagen never really seemed able to provide that until TATA,” says Rehal. “Even though it’s in an expensive part of town in a beautiful hotel, they’ve still managed to keep the Danish down-to-earth atmosphere. We need a hotel bar that can provide this high-end experience like other big cities, and the bar team behind TATA has the creativity and skill set to deliver the high-quality cocktails and service to match the hotel’s beautiful setting.”

Mikkeller Bar, the craft brewery that put Danish beer on the global map, has a standout outpost in Refshaleøen. This industrial-chic bar offers a spacious, minimalist environment where the focus is firmly on the beer. Mikkeller Bar features a rotating selection of innovative brews, including unique collaborations and limited-edition releases you won’t find anywhere else.

With large communal tables and an outdoor seating area, it’s the ideal spot to gather with friends and enjoy some of Copenhagen’s best craft beer (and that’s saying something!). “Mikkeller is more than just a brand; it’s a movement that has brought Danish beer to the forefront of global craft brewing,” says Rehal. “The Refshaleøen location captures the essence of what makes Mikkeller special—creativity, quality, and a deep passion for brewing.”

Tucked away in Nørrebro, The Barking Dog is a neighborhood favorite known for its laid-back vibe and expertly crafted cocktails. The rustic, unpretentious interior, with wooden tables and vintage posters, sets the perfect tone for an evening out. The Barking Dog’s menu focuses on creative cocktails that balance classic flavors with a Nordic twist, such as the ‘Mezcal Margarita’ or the ‘Scandinavian Negroni.’

Rehal highlights the bar’s significant contribution to Copenhagen’s cocktail scene, particularly for its focus on agave spirits. “Besides being a cozy neighborhood bar with great cocktails, Barking Dog has an exceptional place in the Copenhagen bar scene,” he says. “They were the first bar to really focus on agave spirits, educating not just their drinking audience but also bartenders on what agave is capable of.”

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, Balthazar Champagne Bar at Hotel d’Angleterre is the ultimate destination. This sophisticated bar is entirely dedicated to champagne, offering an extensive selection of over 160 labels from the world’s most prestigious houses. The sleek, modern interior, with plush seating and dim lighting, creates an intimate setting perfect for indulgence.

Whether toasting a special occasion or enjoying a night out, Balthazar offers a luxurious experience with impeccable service that’s second to none. “Balthazar is where you go when you want to celebrate life’s finest moments with elegance and style,” says Rehal. “It’s an experience that captures the essence of Copenhagen’s luxury.”