SMK Kafeteria - State Museum of Art in Copenhagen: Hygge eats

I started my visit to the National Gallery of Denmark (SMK) with lunch at their in-house Kafeteria, because I was absolutely famished and could not start my visit without having eaten.

 

I really hoped for a place that has something other to offer than chocolate croissants and sandwiches. Luck! It turned out to be the perfect introduction to the whole place. We were so lucky to find a spot that offers proper food.

We ordered the pumpkin soup (it was delicious) and it came with a huge slice of sourdough bread. Warm and flavorful; you could tell it was made with good ingredients. We sat by the window, feeling happy and cozy, and just indulged in the meal. The weather was slightly overcast, which only made the atmosphere more contemplative and hygge.

The design of the Kafeteria is minimalistic and clean in total Scandinavial style. The space is flooded with natural light from big windows overlooking Østre Anlæg park. It’s this clever mix of old and new when you sit in a modern, airy space (designed by Anna Maria Indrio), with views into the historic museum building. Clean lines, functional furniture, nothing that takes away from the art or the view. It doesn’t feel like a typical museum cafeteria at all—more like a natural, peaceful part of the museum.

Their philosophy is “honest food”—simple, sustainable, and made with care, which totally mirrors the authenticity you come to find in art. Starting a day of exploring masterpieces with such a warm, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing meal was just right.

2 soups with sourdough, sardines, drinks — 315 Danish Krones, — approx 42 eur.

Water - free.

Highly recommended if you’re looking for a thoughtful bite in a truly inspiring setting.