Last week was week 42 of the year, also known as the autumn holiday. Many people use week 42 to jet off on a holiday and have a little break from the hustle and bustle of everyday Copenhagen. However, if you found yourself without the necessary means, or time even, to up and leave on a trip to a fancy European city: worry not. Instead, head on down to Værnedamsvej, a little side street off Vesterbrogade that’s sometimes called ‘Little Paris’, and enjoy some French delicacies and charming atmosphere in the centre of Copenhagen.
Le Gourmand
Danish supermarkets may be fine for your everyday needs, but when you want proper delicatessen food, you simply have to look elsewhere. Le Gourmand is one of those speciality grocers that you’ll never want to leave. It’s filled with charcuterie from all over France: cheeses of every taste and texture, wine of course, and so much more. If you like good food, you’ll love this store.
Værnedamsvej 3A; open Mon-Fri 11:00-18:00, Sat 10:00-15:00, closed Sun; 3326 2025
Helges Ost
You can’t talk about French cuisine without mentioning stinky – yet oh-so-delicious – cheese. Helges Ost does offer a vast selection of European cheeses, with something for everyone. Whether it’s a pungent Danish cheese, a tangy Gruyére or a sharp cheddar, you’ll find it here. And don’t forget to buy some of their fluffy homemade bread.
Værnedamsvej 9; open Tue-Thu 10:00-18:00, Fri 10:00-19:00, Sat 09:00-14:00, closed Sun-Mon; 3324 4102
Cofoco Le Marché
This low-key takeaway place offers some seriously delicious food inspired by both Italian and French cuisine, and it is perfect for when you want to have a lovely meal at home, but simply don’t have the energy to cook. For lunch you can have one of their hearty sandwiches or cold dishes, and for dinner you can choose between a variety of dishes, including boeuf bourguignon, coq au vin, lasagne or the weekly dinner dish. For those with a sweet tooth there are three desserts to choose from: tiramisu, chocolate mousse and the monthly dessert dish.
Værnedamsvej 2; open daily 11:30-21:00; 3331 3935
Cafe Viggo
Sit down at this cosy cafe after your shopping and enjoy some crépes or galettes – a savoury delicacy from Brittany. If you visit the restaurant after 17:30 you can even treat yourself to some moules mariniere, rabbit confit or a classic foie gras. The restaurant is homely and the walls are decorated with some of the most beloved characters of French cartoons such as Gaston Lagaffe, Asterix and Lucky Luke.
Værnedamsvej 15; open Mon-Wed 10:00-24:00, Thu 10:00-01:00, Fri 10:00-02:00, Sat 11:00-02:00, closed Sun; 3331 1821
