Taste of Copenhagen

About

Taste of Copenhagen transforms the industrial-chic Gasværket Cultural Center into Denmark's premier culinary playground each August, where families can sample dishes from the city's top restaurants in a festival atmosphere. Kids can explore food in fun, interactive ways while parents enjoy some of Scandinavia's finest cuisine, all set in beautiful outdoor grounds perfect for children to roam. It's an excellent opportunity to introduce young travelers to Danish food culture beyond traditional tourist restaurants.

What to Expect

Expect a lively outdoor food festival with multiple restaurant stalls offering tasting-sized portions, cooking demonstrations on various stages, and typically some dedicated children's activities. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, with plenty of green space at Gasværket where kids can play between tastings. Music, entertainment, and a festive vibe make it feel more like a community gathering than a formal dining experience. The venue's industrial architecture provides interesting visual appeal, and there are usually designated seating areas where families can settle in to eat together.

Highlights for Kids

• Sampling desserts and sweet treats from Copenhagen's best pastry chefs and chocolatiers
• Watching live cooking demonstrations where chefs prepare dishes right before their eyes
• The freedom to try lots of different foods in small portions, making it less risky for picky eaters to experiment
• Playing in the open green spaces at Gasværket between tastings
• Discovering fun Nordic ingredients like cloudberries, licorice, and unique Danish dairy products

Pro Tips for Families

1. Purchase the festival currency (tasting vouchers) strategically—start with a smaller amount to gauge portion sizes and what your kids actually like before committing to a large bundle
2. Visit during the early afternoon on weekdays if possible to avoid peak crowds, making it easier to navigate with children and get to popular stalls without long waits
3. Bring a blanket or small folding chairs as seating can fill up quickly, and kids often need a comfortable spot to rest between food adventures
4. Download the festival app or grab a program at entry to identify which restaurants offer more kid-friendly options like sliders, fries, or desserts—Danish pastries and ice cream stalls are usually safe bets for reluctant young eaters

Best Time to Visit

Early to mid-afternoon (1-3 PM) on a Friday or during weekend mornings if attending a multi-day event offers the best balance of crowd management and energy levels for kids. Avoid peak dinner hours (6-8 PM) when adult crowds are largest and wait times increase. If your children are early risers, weekend mornings right at opening offer the most relaxed experience with shortest queues, though some restaurants may still be setting up.

Food & Drinks

The festival features tasting-sized portions (smaller than restaurant mains) from 20+ top Copenhagen restaurants, ranging from traditional Danish smørrebrød to international fusion cuisine. Kid-friendly options typically include burgers, fries, pizza variations, pasta dishes, and always popular dessert stalls with ice cream, pastries, and chocolate creations. Food is purchased using festival vouchers rather than cash, with dishes typically costing 3-6 vouchers each. Water stations are usually available, and soft drinks can be purchased. Plan to share dishes family-style so kids can try various flavors without committing to full portions.

Parking & Access

Gasværket is located in Østerbro, easily accessible by Copenhagen's excellent public transportation—take Metro M3 to Vibenshus Runddel station (10-minute walk) or buses 1A, 3A, or 350S stop nearby. Parking is limited in the residential area, so public transport is strongly recommended for international visitors. The venue is mostly stroller-accessible with paved pathways, though grass areas can be bumpy after rain. Consider bringing a baby carrier as a backup for navigating crowded areas. Copenhagen's bike culture means many locals cycle—bike parking is available if you're comfortable renting bikes with child seats.