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Picture this: you’re strolling through one of Copenhagen’s leafiest districts, the city’s hum quieting to birdsong and rustling leaves. You follow a garden path, duck past the hedges of Landbohøjskolens Have, and suddenly - like a mirage - you find Væksthuset, a cozy café tucked inside this lush urban oasis. Locals know it. Tourists rarely stumble across it. And now you do too.
This café is not just a place to eat - it’s a feeling. A hidden nook where the coffee flows, the sun filters through the trees, and the food is simple, fresh, and full of heart.
What is the story behind Væksthuset?
Væksthuset - meaning “The Greenhouse” in Danish - is located in Landbohøjskolens Have, the former Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University’s botanical garden. Once the domain of horticulture students and plant nerds, the garden has opened its arms to the public, offering a quiet green pocket in the heart of Frederiksberg.
In 2020, amid a citywide hunger for nature and simplicity, Væksthuset Café blossomed in this spot. Run by a passionate local team, the café was designed as a space where Copenhageners could reconnect with the outdoors over a great cup of coffee or a light meal. They operate with a sustainability-first approach, sourcing ingredients locally, minimizing waste, and keeping everything beautifully low-key.
The setting? Pure magic. You’ll find mismatched wooden tables under chestnut trees, cozy corners among flower beds, and a rustic counter serving up coffee, pastries, and seasonal specials. It's a far cry from the hipster hustle of Nørrebro or the polished cafés of Indre By. Here, time slows down - and so do you.
What should you try at Væksthuset?
Væksthuset doesn’t pretend to be anything it’s not. The menu is short, fresh, and entirely driven by seasonality and simplicity. Think Danish-style smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches), homemade cakes, and hearty soups in colder months - all prepared with organic and local ingredients.
Top picks include:
- Rugbrød med kartoffel og purløg – A potato and chive open sandwich on dense rye bread. Perfectly Scandinavian.
- Dagens kage (Cake of the Day) – Often baked with berries or herbs from the garden itself. Light, moist, and usually gone by mid-afternoon.
- Homemade lemonade and elderflower sodas – Refreshing and garden-sourced when possible.
The food is straightforward, but the setting makes it unforgettable. Imagine sipping lemonade while bees buzz lazily nearby and garden students sketch wildflowers at the next table. That’s Væksthuset.
Why is Væksthuset a Frederiksberg must-visit?
Because it’s a hidden café in Frederiksberg that offers something few other places can: tranquillity.
It’s also a cultural crossover: part café, part botanical haven, part historical site. Landbohøjskolens Have has existed since 1858 and still belongs to the University of Copenhagen, though it now welcomes the public. You’ll find students studying horticulture alongside parents with prams, couples on casual dates, and locals reading novels in the shade.
And here’s a fun detail: the garden paths and benches are designed to encourage wandering. So even if you came just for a bite, you’ll end up exploring - and that’s exactly what StoryHunt wants you to do. The audio walk of Frederiksberg includes stops that tell the story of this historic garden and its evolving role in Copenhagen life.
Who will love Væksthuset?
Honestly? Pretty much everyone. But especially:
- Slow travelers who prefer calm over crowds
- Plant lovers and botanical nerds (you’ll be in heaven)
- Families – the open garden space is great for little ones
- Digital detoxers – there’s no WiFi, and you won’t miss it
- Locals looking to recharge
If you’re visiting in spring or summer, go early - seating fills up fast, especially on sunny weekends. Autumn has its own magic, with golden leaves and hot soup. Winter? Væksthuset often closes in the colder months, so check their Facebook page before you go.
Is it worth visiting Væksthuset?
Absolutely - if you want to experience a different side of Copenhagen. Væksthuset isn’t flashy or famous, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s a local secret, a peaceful retreat, and a celebration of slow, intentional living.
More than just a café, it’s a reminder that the best travel moments often happen between the landmarks - in quiet gardens, over homemade cake, and with sunlight on your face.
Whether you’re exploring Frederiksberg solo, with friends, or as part of a StoryHunt audio walk, don’t miss the chance to pause here. Let the city fade behind the trees and simply be.
What else is nearby Væksthuset?
Once you’ve had your fill of cake and calm, you’re perfectly placed to explore more of Frederiksberg:
- Frederiksberg Gardens – A few minutes' walk brings you to one of Copenhagen’s grandest parks, complete with swans, canals, and a view of the Royal Palace.
- Hart Bageri – One of Copenhagen’s most famous bakeries is just a short walk away. If you didn’t get enough carbs, now’s your chance. Read more in our feature on Hart Bageri.
- Falkoner Allé – Lined with shops, cafés, and cultural venues, it’s the place to stroll, shop, or catch a show.
Better yet, connect the dots with StoryHunt’s immersive walk through Frederiksberg - it’s like having a local whisper secrets in your ear as you explore.
