Welcome to Cap Horn in Nyhavn

Cap Horn is a Danish bistro full of charm and character – located in one of the most atmospheric historic buildings along the Nyhavn waterfront: Nyhavn 21, also known as Fredsfondens Hus. Here, past and present meet in both flavor and feel.

A house full of stories

Behind the painted façade and slightly tilted timber walls is a building with more than 300 years of stories to tell. Built in the late 1600s, it has welcomed sailors, artists, resistance fighters, and jazz enthusiasts alike. For many years, it operated as a hotel – and at times, served as a temporary home for the celebrated Danish artists Anna and Michael Ancher during their stays and exhibitions in Copenhagen.

During World War II, the building’s winding cellars were used by the resistance as hideouts and for the printing of underground newspapers, while the Gestapo avoided the area due to its unpredictability. In the 1950s, Cap Horn became a popular jazz venue – a place where music and life flowed freely along the quay. It was later transformed into a restaurant and taken over by the Tholstrup group in 1996, who developed it into the bistro we know today.

A Danish bistro in the heart of Nyhavn

Cap Horn serves Danish food with a light, modern touch. The menu is seasonal, rooted in tradition, and built on good ingredients and honest flavours – from classic smørrebrød at lunch to evening dishes that celebrate simplicity and good taste.

At lunch, you’ll find classic open-faced sandwiches, herring, and warm Danish classics. In the evening, the menu features favourites of fish, meat, and greens – with dishes like moules frites, fish and chips, grilled turbot, pearl barley risotto, and fresh seasonal starters.

Atmosphere and personality

The interior of the restaurant has the same charm as the building itself: old wooden floors, slanting lines, and warm colours that reflect the building’s age – all carefully preserved and paired with modern touches that respect the listed structure.

Whether you're here for a glass of wine in the sun or a long dinner by candlelight, the atmosphere is relaxed and full of charm. In the restaurant, your eyes are naturally drawn to the large signed print by Ib Spang Olsen, titled “Fri os fra os”. Daylight pours in through the tall windows facing Nyhavn, as well as the large skylight in the centre of the room.

In summer, the restaurant opens out onto the quay, where guests can enjoy the sun and views of the water. And when the cold sets in, the fireplace is lit, adding warmth to the space. No matter the season, the atmosphere is shaped by presence, history, and a clear sense of detail.

At Cap Horn, we welcome both small and large groups in the restaurant, while the first floor offers a spacious private room – ideal for events and special occasions. Whether it’s a dinner, reception or corporate gathering, we tailor the menu and setting to suit your needs.

We look forward to welcoming you!