Badstuen Brasserie & Bar (Copenhagen, DENMARK) ★★★☆☆

It's going to be a very busy day for us in the Danish capital. Right after breakfast, we got off to a fast start checking out a number of places behind our hotel including Wallmans Circus Building. Then, it was time to visit Strøget, Copenhagen's main shopping street which is one of Europe's longest pedestrian streets with a wealth of shops, from budget-friendly chains to some of the world's most expensive brands.

The 1+km stretch covers streets like Frederiksberggade, Nygade, Vimmelskaftet, and Østergade and runs from City Hall Square all the way to Kongens Nytorv square.

We didn't realize it but by the time we finished taking pictures and videos, it was already 1:30pm; and we have yet to have lunch. Looking around the century-old buildings on Vimmelskaftet, we were so relieved to spot Badstuen Brasserie & Bar on the first floor of one of those buildings which was still open for business.

Badstuen is a French brasserie in the afternoon and bar at night. They boast a nice view of the pedestrian street from the window seats but we decided to sit at a quiet corner for some privacy.

Jelloman was all too happy to have found a few things she liked from the shops on the pedestrian street.

Reindeer carpaccio, parmesan chips, balsamic, mustard – This was a dish that we didn't see often in Hong Kong so Jelloman decided to jump all over it. The reindeer carpaccio had this nice moist and chewy texture to it and I thought the balsamic and mustard really helped to minimalize the gamey flavors. It would have been perfect if there was a bit of crunch added to the mix (pine nuts?). 

Chestnut velouté, scallop, peanut, raspberry – While Jelloman went with the reindeer carpaccio as her starter, I had the chestnut velouté myself. The silky smooth chestnut soup was nicely matched with pan-seared scallops and crushed peanuts; and I loved the raspberry compote and ganache there to bring some lovely acidity to the dish. A very well-balanced starter with a strong mix of flavors.

Roasted spring chicken, seasonal vegetables – We shared a main dish together and this roasted spring chicken turned out to be a rather decent choice. It was tender and juicy, working well with the carrot, purple onion, asparagus, leeks and assorted peppers.  

This was a very nice meal in a relaxing atmosphere but it's time to move on. Next up, 

Helligaandskirken (or Church of the Holy Spirit) which is located right across the street. It would be followed by a visit to the iconic Nyhavn at the waterfront area. Should be a lot of fun! 

Food Rating: 6/10

Price: $$$

Address: Vimmelskaftet 47, 1161 København, Denmark

Closest Subway Station: Rådhuspladsen / Gammel Strand