Copenhagen's best Italian restaurants

As winter settles over the Nordics, Copenhagen locals often seek out comforting, hearty meals to lift their spirits. With this in mind, we’ve curated a guide to five must-visit Italian restaurants in the city. Each has its own unique charm, atmosphere, and signature dishes; from classic to contemporary and lively to relaxed, there’s something here for every mood and palate.

Mangiamo!

Barabba

Follow the glowing red neon sign, and you’ll know you’re on your way to heaven on a plate. At Barabba, you’ll experience a cutting-edge take on Italian cuisine, brimming with creativity, yet still capturing the true essence of Italian cuisine we all adore.

This much-loved, vibrant establishment with its atmospheric lighting is helmed by restaurateur Riccardo Marcon—also the force behind the popular Korean restaurant Propaganda and the newly opened Bar Vitrine, which brings a touch of Indian spices to the mix.

Barabba isn’t just a favorite among locals; it’s also a spot where many from the restaurant industry come to unwind after their shifts. Back in the day, it was a go-to late-night haunt, and even now, its after-hours allure remains strong. One dish in particular—their exquisite spaghetti with butter, colatura, and a dollop of caviar—is worth the trip alone. Don’t miss it; it’s nothing short of spectacular.

Store Kongensgade 34
1264 København
barabba.dk

Boutique Emilia

Don’t be misled into thinking there’s someone named Emilia behind this restaurant. Boutique Emilia's name pays homage to the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, which serves as the inspiration for its cuisine.

Run by Stefano Baravelli and Noemi Sulas, a couple from Bologna, Boutique Emilia offers one of the most personal and unique Italian dining experiences in Copenhagen. With only five tables and a single seating per night, dropping in without a reservation is near impossible. However, once you secure a table, you’ll quickly understand why it’s generally booked up for weeks in advance.

Expect a pre-set menu where pasta takes center stage, even making an appearance in dessert if you’re so inclined. Pair this with a thoughtful selection of wines, and you’ll be reluctant to leave. And if you can’t get enough of their homemade pasta by the end of the evening, you’re in luck—you can buy a pack to take home.

Frederiksholms Kanal 4, kl.th
1220 København
boutiqueemilia.com

Mirabelle

At this all-day eatery in Nørrebro, it’s all about celebrating the very best of authentic Italian cuisine. The latest creation of chef Christian F. Puglisi, Mirabelle is just one of his many ventures, alongside Bæst (right next door), Rino VinoFino, and previously the highly acclaimed Relæ and Manfreds.

Mirabelle serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner every day of the week from 9:30 to 22:00. Their scrumptious pasta, homemade mozzarella, ricotta, charcuterie, and sourdough bread are just the tip of the iceberg—it’s no surprise that this spot stays busy all day long!

Before heading off to your next adventure, be sure to savor an espresso paired with one of their homemade cannoli filled with ricotta—perfect for a quick stop at the counter as well. Rumor has it their arancini is another must-try dish.

Guldbergsgade 29
2200 København N
mirabelle-spiseria.dk

Rufino Osteria

It’s cozy, it’s casual ... it’s Rufino Osteria! This basement restaurant in Christianshavn, just near the Knippelsbro bridge lets you savor flavorful Italian cuisine in a relaxed, unpretentious setting with the lively buzz of conversation from fellow diners adding to the charm.

The menu is full of comfort food, with their pasta standing out as a major highlight. How does fettuccine with duck ragù and orange butter sound? Mouthwatering, if you ask us. Pair it with a glass of wine recommended by the staff, and you’re all set!

Even the complimentary bread service, featuring butter buns, pane carasau, and Roman-style focaccia served with olive oil is a delight. On weekends, Rufino Osteria also offers a lunch menu, including deli-style sandwiches that are well worth checking out.

Strandgade 14
1401 København
rufino-osteria.com

Mangia

Named after the Italian word for "eat," this restaurant and bar is in the Vesterbro area of Copenhagen. Once inside, you’ll feel the energy immediately, with staff bustling between full tables, serving food and drinks amid the lively chatter of contented guests. But don’t be discouraged if it seems packed, especially on weekends. If there’s even the slightest chance to squeeze in an extra table for you, rest assured the staff will make it happen.

The menu offers two tempting options: a four-course tasting menu or an à la carte selection featuring dishes that will undoubtedly make your mouth water. One standout is their signature Plin al Fondo d’Arrosto— pasta stuffed with veal and pork and served in dripping. You’ll also find an enticing selection of antipasti, mains, and desserts to round off your meal.

Bagerstræde 9
1617 København
mangia.dk

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