Danes do not mix the various dishes on their plates but have them in strict order. Given its geographical position, it is not surprising that shellfish also forms an important part of Danish cuisine. Apart from traditional dishes, French or international cuisine is the order of the day. In Copenhagen, superb gourmet restaurants can be found, whilst Ålborg is noted for its number of restaurants. Most towns have fast food outlets, and the sausage stalls on most street corners, selling hot sausages, hamburgers, soft drinks and beer, are popular. There are no licensing hours.
National specialties:
• Smørrebrød
is a highly popular traditional Danish dish that is often eaten for lunch. It consists of a slice of dark bread with butter, topped with slices of meat, fish or cheese and generously garnished. It needs to be eaten sitting down with a knife and fork.
• Buffet-style lunch (the
koldt bord) is also popular with a variety of fish, meats, hot dishes, cheese and sweets, usually on a self-service basis.
• A normal Danish breakfast, or
morgen-complet , consists of an assortment of breads, rolls, jam and cheese, often also sliced meats, boiled eggs and warm Danish pastries.
National drinks:• Danish coffee is delicious.
• Denmark also has many varieties of beer, famous breweries being Carlsberg and Tuborg. Most popular is
pilsner (lager) but there are also darker beers.
•
Akvavit, popularly known as
snaps is meant to be drunk with cold food, preferably with a beer chaser. It is served ice cold.
Tipping: Hotels and restaurants quote fully inclusive prices and tipping is not necessary. Taxi fares include tips. Railway porters and washroom attendants expect to receive tips.
NoteThe Danish Hotel and Restaurant Association displays signs indicating restaurants where the needs of
diabetics are given special attention. It consists of the words ‘
Diabetes mad – sund mad for alle’ (‘Food for Diabetics – healthy food for everyone’) encircling a chef’s head.
NightlifeThere is a wide selection of nightlife, particularly in Copenhagen, where the first morning restaurants open to coincide with closing time at 0500. Jazz and dance clubs in the capital city are top quality and world-famous performers appear regularly. There are numerous beer gardens.
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