Perched above one of Copenhagen’s most legendary music venues in the heart of Christiania, SpiseLoppen offers something you won’t find anywhere else in the city: exceptional organic cuisine served in a space that perfectly embodies the free-spirited soul of Copenhagen’s most famous alternative community. This isn’t just dinner—it’s a cultural immersion into the beating heart of Danish counterculture, where outstanding food meets radical philosophy in the most unexpectedly delightful way.
Located directly above the iconic Loppen concert venue, SpiseLoppen has been quietly serving some of Copenhagen’s most thoughtful, sustainable cuisine since the early 1990s. While tourists flock to Nyhavn and locals debate the merits of New Nordic cuisine, this hidden gem continues to prove that the most memorable meals often happen in the most unlikely places.
What Makes It Special
SpiseLoppen isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a living piece of Copenhagen’s cultural history. Operating within Christiania, the autonomous neighborhood that declared its independence from Denmark in 1971, the restaurant embodies the community’s core values of sustainability, creativity, and social consciousness. Every meal here supports not just exceptional cuisine, but an entire alternative way of life that has somehow thrived in the heart of one of Europe’s most expensive capitals.
The restaurant’s commitment to organic, locally-sourced ingredients isn’t a trendy marketing ploy—it’s been their philosophy from the beginning. Long before “farm-to-table” became a buzzword, SpiseLoppen was building relationships with local organic farmers and crafting menus that change with the seasons. The kitchen operates with a level of environmental consciousness that would make even the most dedicated sustainability advocate proud.
What truly sets SpiseLoppen apart is its unique position above Loppen, one of Copenhagen’s most important music venues. The building pulses with creative energy—you might enjoy your appetizer while sound checks drift up from below, creating an atmosphere that’s simultaneously intimate and electric. This combination of exceptional food and cultural significance makes dining here feel like discovering a secret that locals have been keeping for decades.
The Experience
Walking into SpiseLoppen feels like entering a friend’s well-loved living room—if that friend happened to be an incredibly talented chef with impeccable taste in vintage furniture and an extensive vinyl collection. The interior reflects Christiania’s aesthetic: eclectic, warm, and refreshingly unpretentious. Mismatched wooden tables, plants cascading from unexpected corners, and artwork created by local artists create an atmosphere that’s both bohemian and surprisingly sophisticated.
The dining room buzzes with an interesting mix of curious tourists, local Christiania residents, music lovers grabbing dinner before shows downstairs, and Copenhagen food enthusiasts who’ve discovered one of the city’s best-kept culinary secrets. Conversations flow easily between tables—there’s something about the space that breaks down the typical Danish reserve and encourages connection.
The menu changes frequently based on seasonal availability, but expect dishes that showcase the best of Danish ingredients prepared with creativity and respect. You might find yourself savoring perfectly prepared fish from the Baltic Sea, vegetables from organic farms just outside Copenhagen, or inventive vegetarian dishes that prove plant-based cuisine can be both satisfying and sophisticated. The wine list focuses on natural and biodynamic selections that complement the food’s organic philosophy.
Service strikes the perfect balance between knowledgeable and laid-back. Staff members are genuinely passionate about both the food and Christiania’s history, often sharing stories about the community while explaining the evening’s specials. Don’t be surprised if your server can also recommend the best spots to explore in Christiania after dinner.
Practical Information
SpiseLoppen is located at Bådsmandsstræde 43, 1407 København K, directly above the Loppen music venue in Christiania. The easiest way to reach it is by taking the metro to Christianshavn Station, then walking about 10 minutes through Christiania’s main entrance on Prinsessegade. Look for the distinctive Loppen signage—SpiseLoppen is accessed through the same building.
The restaurant typically opens for dinner Tuesday through Saturday, with service usually beginning around 6 PM. However, hours can vary seasonally and for special events, so check their current schedule before visiting. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends or when popular bands are performing downstairs at Loppen.
Expect to spend approximately 500-700 DKK (roughly $75-105 USD) per person for a full dinner with wine. While this might seem steep, the quality of ingredients, preparation, and unique experience justify the price point. They accept both cash and cards, though some smaller establishments in Christiania prefer cash.
The restaurant is accessible, though the historic building may have some limitations. If you have specific accessibility needs, call ahead to discuss arrangements.
Insider Tips
The most magical time to dine at SpiseLoppen is when there’s a concert at Loppen afterward—you can often hear the sound check during your meal, and the energy in the building is palpable. Check Loppen’s concert schedule when making your reservation; dining before a show creates an unforgettable evening.
If you’re visiting Christiania for the first time, arrive early to explore the community before dinner. The contrast between the alternative shops, cafes, and art installations and the sophisticated dining experience upstairs perfectly encapsulates Copenhagen’s ability to embrace both tradition and rebellion.
Ask your server about the evening’s specials—these often feature the most seasonal and interesting ingredients. The kitchen takes pride in creating dishes that you won’t find anywhere else in Copenhagen, so be adventurous with your ordering.
Don’t rush your meal. SpiseLoppen operates on Christiania time, which means the pace is more relaxed than typical Copenhagen restaurants. Embrace the slower rhythm—it’s part of the charm and allows you to fully appreciate both the food and the unique atmosphere.
Similar Alternatives
If SpiseLoppen is fully booked, consider Café Wilder in Nørrebro which provides creative cuisine in an artistic setting, though it lacks the historical significance of dining within Christiania.
A Meal Worth the Journey
SpiseLoppen proves that Copenhagen’s most memorable dining experiences often happen in the most unexpected places. This isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a window into a different way of life, where exceptional food serves as a bridge between Copenhagen’s mainstream culture and its radical alternative. Whether you’re a food enthusiast seeking outstanding organic cuisine, a culture lover interested in Christiania’s unique story, or simply someone who appreciates dining experiences that can’t be replicated anywhere else in the world, SpiseLoppen delivers something truly special.
For visitors wanting to understand the full spectrum of Copenhagen’s identity—from royal palaces to autonomous communities—a meal at SpiseLoppen is essential. Just remember to verify current hours and prices on their website before visiting, as schedules can vary with the seasons and special events at the venue below.