Restaurant Schønnemann
Copenhagen, Denmark; Hauser Plads 16, 1127 Copenhagen K, Denmark
Schønnemann gives Copenhagen’s lunch traditions room to unfold at their own pace. Established in 1877, the restaurant on Hauser Plads is associated with smørrebrød, herring and schnapps rather than the extended evening tasting menus that dominate international discussion of the city. Dark wood panelling, green walls and white table linen provide a suitably traditional setting. The breadth of the sandwich menu rewards a considered order. Tourism-board coverage highlights matured herring, smoked eel with scrambled eggs and freshly breaded plaice among its characteristic offerings. These are substantial plates, and a leisurely lunch can easily become the day’s main meal. The restaurant’s extensive choice of beer and snaps provides another connection to Danish dining customs, though drinks are a matter of preference rather than an obligation. Its importance in this selection is cultural as well as culinary. Schønnemann offers a longstanding form of Copenhagen hospitality that remains legible through the room, the service format and the food. Reserve a table and check the current lunch sitting arrangements, particularly around the festive season. It is an excellent counterpoint to the city’s more experimental restaurants, with a distinct identity of its own.