Restaurant Schønnemann is one of Copenhagen’s oldest and most celebrated lunch restaurants. Founded in 1877, this historic institution at Hauser Plads has long been associated with the traditional Danish lunch, particularly smørrebrød accompanied by beer and snaps. In its early days, farmers would leave their horses in the square after selling their goods and stop inside for freshly brewed beer, a glass of snaps and something to eat.
Descending the four steps into the restaurant feels like entering another era. The old world dining room has dark wood panelling, deep green walls, traditional upholstered chairs and tables dressed with crisp white linens. It is atmospheric and unmistakably historic, preserving the character of a traditional Copenhagen lunch restaurant.
The extensive menu focuses on classic smørrebrød, herring, smoked fish, shellfish, plaice, potatoes, tartlets, meat dishes and other traditional specialties. Its drinks selection is equally impressive, with 24 different beers and more than 140 varieties of snaps. On paper, it sounded like exactly the kind of iconic Copenhagen experience we were looking forward to.
Unfortunately, our meal did not come close to living up to the restaurant’s reputation. In fact, Schønnemann was our least favourite meal in Copenhagen.
The shrimp pyramid looked generous when it arrived, but the shrimp were dry and almost completely tasteless. Served on white bread, the entire dish felt heavy and surprisingly uninspired. We also ordered the chicken and crispy root vegetable pie, which was equally disappointing. Neither dish had the freshness, balance or deliciousness we experienced at the other restaurants serving smørrebrød throughout Copenhagen.
The service did little to improve the experience. It lacked the warmth and polish we had encountered elsewhere in the city, and I did not enjoy the atmosphere or the crowd. Although the room was busy and filled with people clearly enjoying this longstanding Copenhagen tradition, it simply did not appeal to us.
I realize that Schønnemann is a beloved institution and that many people consider it an essential Copenhagen dining experience. However, a restaurant should ultimately be judged by the food and hospitality it delivers today, not simply by its history or reputation.
After enjoying much better smørrebrød elsewhere in Copenhagen, the difference was striking. In hindsight, I sincerely wish we had chosen Selma or Aamanns instead. For us, booking Schønnemann was a major dining mistake and one of the greatest disappointments of our trip.
Not recommended.
Happy dining,
Shanea
09/06/2026
