In towns there are many restaurants, café’s and cafeterias to choose from, and many large supermarkets have their own cafeterias. The danish cuisine is varied and very delicius – hot meals as well as “smørrebrød” (open sandwiches) are popular, but almost anything is obtainable.

A normal Danish breakfast, is generally “continental” and consists of an assortment of breads, rolls, jam and cheese, often also sliced meats, boiled eggs and warm Danish pastries – and coffee or tea. Danish coffee is delicious and if you like it very strong, ask for mokka.

Most Danes have smørrebrød for their lunch. This is a slice of dark bread with butter and topped with slices of meat, fish or cheese and generously garnished. It bears no resemblance to traditional sandwiches and needs to be eaten sitting down with a knife and fork.

Buffet-style lunch (the koldt bord ) is also popular with a variety of fish, meats, hot dishes, cheese and sweets, usually on a self-service basis. Danes do not mix the various dishes on their plates but have them in strict order. Given its geographical position it is not surprising that shellfish also form an important part of Danish cuisine. Apart from traditional dishes, French or international cuisine is the order of the day.

Most towns have ‘fast food’ outlets for hamburgers and pizzas.

Denmark also has many varieties of beer, famous breweries being Carlsberg and Tuborg. Most popular is pilsner (a lager). The other national drink is akvavit, popularly known as snaps, which is neither an aperitif, cocktail nor liqueur and is meant to be drunk with food, preferably with a beer chaser. It is served ice cold and only accompanies cold food.

In the countryside, the Danish inns – “Kro” have restaurants as well as accommodation.

The Danes drink a lot of beer, which is served everywhere, and can be bought in the shops by persons over 15 years of age. At restaurants alcoholic drinks are allowed for persons over 18 years of age.

The Danish Hotel and Restaurant Association is introducing a new sign to indicate restaurants where the needs of diabetics are given special attention. It consists of the words ‘Diabetes mad – sund mad for alle’ (‘Food for Diabetics – healthy food for everyone’) encircling a chef’s head.