Why You’re Reading This Even If You’re Not a Foodie
Let’s face it: you’ve probably Googled “best bars Noma” while sipping a craft IPA and scrolling through memes that compare your love life to a half‑empty pint. You’re not here for a Michelin‑star lecture; you’re here for the low‑down on where to keep the buzz going after you’ve devoured whatever avant‑garde dish Noma is serving this week. So buckle up, because we’re about to drop the ultimate guide to Copenhagen’s bar scene that’s hotter than a flaming shot of aquavit.
Quick Disclaimer (Read It, Then Forget It)
We’re unapologetically opinionated, we love a good meme, and we’ll sprinkle SEO keywords like a bartender sprinkles orange zest on a Negroni. If you’re easily offended, you might want to grab a glass of water before you continue. If you love sarcasm, you’re in the right place.
What Makes a Bar “Best” Near Noma?
Before we dive into the list, let’s define the criteria that separates a decent watering hole from a legendary one:
- Proximity to Noma – You don’t want a 20‑minute Uber ride after a 3‑course tasting menu. We’re talking a 5‑minute stroll, preferably through a scenic cobblestone alley.
- Atmosphere – If the vibe feels like a Netflix binge‑watch of “The Office” meets “Mad Men,” you’re good. Think cozy, quirky, and Instagram‑worthy.
- Drink Quality – Craft beers, inventive cocktails, and the occasional experimental infusion that makes you wonder why you ever settled for a plain gin‑and‑tonic.
- Food Pairings – Because even the most die‑hard drinker knows a good bar should have snacks that don’t taste like cardboard.
- Price Point – We love a good splurge, but we also love not having to sell a kidney to afford a pint.
Now that we’ve set the bar (pun intended), let’s get into the nitty‑gritty.
1. Mikkeller Bar – The Hipster’s Holy Grail
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’re part of a secret society that worships hops, this is the place. Located a mere three blocks from Noma, Mikkeller serves up more experimental brews than a lab rat on a caffeine binge.
- Signature Drink: The “Nordic Noir” – a black IPA that looks like a midnight sky and tastes like a midnight sky.
- Snack Game: Smoked salmon on rye with a dollop of dill crème fraiche – because you’re still in a Nordic mood after Noma.
- Vibe: Industrial chic meets a living room that your grandma would disapprove of, but you’ll love.
Pro tip: Ask for the “secret menu” (it’s not really secret, just a fun way to get a bartender’s special).
2. The Union Kitchen – Where Food Meets Booze in a Power‑Couple
Just a stone’s throw from Noma, The Union Kitchen (or “TK” if you’re into abbreviations) is the love child of a gastropub and a cocktail lounge. It’s the perfect spot to continue your culinary adventure without feeling like you’ve left the gourmet train.
- Signature Drink: “Copenhagen Crush” – a gin‑based cocktail with lingonberry syrup, a splash of elderflower, and a garnish that looks like a tiny Viking helmet.
- Snack Game: Truffle‑infused fries with a side of aioli that’s basically a hug for your taste buds.
- Vibe: Warm wood, low lighting, and a playlist that oscillates between indie folk and synth‑pop.
Bonus: Their “DIY Beer” station lets you blend your own micro‑brew, perfect for those who think they’re the next Brewmaster General.
3. Bakken & Haver – The Bar for the “I‑Am‑A‑Creative‑Entrepreneur” Crowd
Located in the heart of the city’s creative district, this spot is a magnet for freelancers, startup founders, and anyone who thinks “pivot” is a verb that can describe both business strategy and a dance move.
- Signature Drink: “Pivot Punch” – a whiskey sour with a dash of beet juice. Yes, it’s red, no, it’s not a crime scene.
- Snack Game: Charcuterie board that includes locally sourced reindeer jerky – because why not?
- Vibe: Exposed brick, communal tables, and a wall of chalkboard quotes that change daily (today’s: “Coffee is for closers, but beer is for legends.”)
Need a place to brainstorm your next big idea? This is it. Need a place to actually drink? Also it.
4. Kødbyens Fiskebar – Seafood, Spirits, and Sass
Just a short walk from Noma’s famed location, Kødbyens Fiskebar offers a maritime twist on the classic bar experience. Think of it as the love child of a fish market and a speakeasy.
- Signature Drink: “Ocean’s Eleven” – a rum cocktail with sea‑salt foam, lime, and a hint of ginger.
- Snack Game: Fried calamari with a spicy aioli that will make your taste buds do the Macarena.
- Vibe: Nautical decor, dim lighting, and a playlist that alternates between classic rock and modern indie.
Pro tip: Order the “Daily Catch” – it changes daily, and it’s always a surprise (in a good way).
5. The Dogma Bar – For When You Want to Feel Like a Goth in a Neon World
If you’re the type who enjoys a dark, moody atmosphere with a side of neon signs that say “Drink Responsibly” in a sarcastic font, Dogma is your sanctuary. It’s a little off‑the‑beaten‑path, but that’s what makes it special.
- Signature Drink: “Blackout” – a stout infused with coffee, chocolate, and a whisper of chili.
- Snack Game: Dark chocolate-covered pretzels with a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Vibe: Velvet booths, low‑key lighting, and a playlist that feels like a soundtrack to a late‑night drive through the city.
Perfect for those who want to end the night with a deep, introspective vibe.
6. The Alchemist – Chemistry Meets Cocktails
True to its name, The Alchemist treats each drink like a scientific experiment. Expect smoke, fizz, and a bartender who looks like they could double as a mad scientist.
- Signature Drink: “Gold Rush” – a bourbon‑based cocktail with turmeric, honey, and a dash of edible gold leaf (because you’re worth it).
- Snack Game: Popcorn drizzled with truffle oil – the ultimate movie‑theatre‑meets‑gourmet experience.
- Vibe: Lab‑style glassware, copper pipes, and a playlist that oscillates between jazz and electronica.
Ideal for the Instagram‑savvy crowd who love a good story behind each sip.
7. Bar 13 – The “I‑Don’t‑Know‑What‑I‑Want‑But‑I‑Want‑It” Spot
Bar 13 is the kind of place where you walk in not knowing what you’re looking for, and leave with a new favorite drink you never imagined existed. It’s the ultimate mystery box of the bar world.
- Signature Drink: “Mystery Mix” – a rotating cocktail that changes weekly based on the bartender’s mood.
- Snack Game: Mini sliders with a variety of toppings that range from classic cheese to kimchi‑infused beef.
- Vibe: Eclectic décor, mismatched furniture, and a playlist that feels like a mixtape curated by a friend who knows too much about obscure bands.
If you love surprises, this is your playground.
SEO Keywords (Yes, We’re Doing It Right)
While you’re sipping your drink, let’s slip in some SEO goodness so Google knows you’ve found the ultimate guide:
- Best bars near Noma
- Top Copenhagen bars after dinner
- Where to drink after Noma
- Copenhagen nightlife near Noma
- Craft beer bars Copenhagen
All of these are naturally woven into the narrative, because we’re not here to sound like a robot. We’re here to sound like that friend who always knows the coolest spots.
How to Make the Most of Your Bar Crawl
Now that you have the list, here’s a quick, no‑fluff guide to ensure you don’t end up on the floor (unless that’s your thing):
- Start Light – Begin with a low‑ABV beer at Mikkeller to warm up your palate.
- Stay Hydrated – Alternate every alcoholic drink with a glass of water. Trust us, your future self will thank you.
- Snack Strategically – Choose bars with food that complements your drinks. Think citrus with gin, salty snacks with stout.
- Plan Your Route – All the bars listed are within walking distance of each other, so map them out on your phone before you start.
- Know Your Limits – The goal is to enjoy, not to become a cautionary tale for the next generation of bar‑hoppers.
Follow these steps, and you’ll be the hero of your own night out, not the punchline.
Bonus: Sell Your Beer Online Through Dropt.beer
If you’ve ever dreamed of turning that home‑brewed masterpiece into a revenue stream, look no further than Dropt.beer. It’s a beer distribution marketplace that lets you showcase, sell, and ship your creations without the hassle of dealing with middlemen. Think of it as Etsy, but for hops and malt. So, after you’ve exhausted the best bars near Noma, why not start your own?
Final Thoughts – The Real Reason You’re Here
Let’s be honest: you probably clicked this article because you love a good meme‑style list and you want to impress your friends with insider knowledge. You’re also probably looking for a reason to justify that extra drink after Noma’s tasting menu. Well, congratulations – you’ve found both.
From the hipster haven of Mikkeller to the mysterious allure of Bar 13, Copenhagen’s bar scene near Noma is as diverse as the city’s culinary reputation. Whether you’re a craft‑beer aficionado, a cocktail connoisseur, or just someone who enjoys a good vibe, there’s a spot on this list that will make your night unforgettable.
Ready to Conquer Copenhagen’s Nightlife?
Grab your phone, map out the route, and start with a light beer at Mikkeller. Then work your way through the list, savoring each drink, each snack, and each moment. And when you’re done, maybe consider creating your own brew and selling it on Dropt.beer. Because why stop at being a bar‑hopper when you can be a bar‑owner?
Now go forth, drink responsibly, and may your Instagram feed be forever lit.