Ark Copenhagen: Michelin Green Star Vegan Restaurant Review

Copenhagen has long been known as a culinary capital, and in recent years, it has become a global leader in sustainable dining. At the heart of this movement is Michelin Green Star vegan restaurant Copenhagen: Ark Copenhagen, which is redefining what vegan fine dining can be. With a 9-course tasting menu that balances creativity, seasonality, and sustainability, Ark offers an unforgettable dining experience for food lovers seeking something beyond traditional plant-based cuisine.

What Is a Michelin Green Star?

The Michelin Green Star is awarded to restaurants that demonstrate outstanding commitment to sustainability. Unlike the traditional Michelin Stars, which recognize culinary excellence, the Green Star specifically highlights restaurants that embrace eco-friendly practices such as reducing waste, sourcing locally, and innovating with plant-based ingredients.

Ark Copenhagen holds this distinction proudly, setting an example of how fine dining and sustainability can coexist.

Ark Copenhagen: A Pioneer in Vegan Fine Dining

Ark is part of the larger Ark Collection, a group of restaurants in Copenhagen that focuses on sustainable gastronomy. What makes Ark unique is its entirely vegan approach. From the interior design made with reclaimed wood to the seasonal, locally sourced tasting menus, everything here emphasizes a low-impact yet high-quality experience.

The Dining Experience at Michelin Green Star vegan restaurant Copenhagen - Ark

Ambience and Interior Design

The restaurant features a minimalist, Nordic aesthetic with warm lighting, earthy textures, and an inviting, intimate atmosphere. It’s fine dining without pretension - sophisticated yet approachable.

Service and Hospitality

The staff at Ark balance professionalism with friendliness, explaining each course in detail and sharing insights into the local farms, foraged herbs, and fermentation techniques that shape the menu.

Wine Pairings and Plant-Based Beverages

Ark offers a carefully curated selection of natural wines and non-alcoholic pairings, each designed to complement the complexity of the dishes. We paired white wine that was made in Copenhagen in a garage - the story was really interesting and the wine was amazing.

Sustainability at the Heart of Ark’s Philosophy

Ark doesn’t just serve plant-based food—it embodies a whole-restaurant sustainability model. Ingredients are sourced locally, often foraged or grown by nearby producers, and the menu changes with the seasons. Even the wines and beverages are chosen for their sustainable production methods.

Signature Vegan Dishes Worth Trying

Ark’s tasting menu evolves with the seasons. During our July 2025 visit, the 9-course menu included:

1. Tomato, kimchi, cherry – A refreshing opening with sweet and fresh sour notes.

2. Coral tooth, rocket, mascarpone – A playful mushroom-based dish balanced with creamy vegan mascarpone.

3. Chawanmushi, corn, pineapple weed – A delicate take on the Japanese classic, showcasing summer flavors.

4. Peas, lemon basil, shio koji – Bright and herbaceous, highlighting local produce.

5. Bread, XO – House-made bread paired with a rich umami-packed vegan XO spread.

6. Blue oyster, plum, ramson – Earthy and tart, combining mushrooms with wild garlic.

7. Koji, shiso, verbena – A fermented, aromatic dish that bridges savory and herbal flavors.

8. Strawberry, green asparagus, meadowsweet – An inventive combination of sweet and vegetal elements.

9. Apple, grapefruit pine, cardamom – A vibrant, refreshing dessert to end the evening.

Each course tells a story of seasonality, sustainability, and creativity—without relying on traditional luxury ingredients like meat, fish, or dairy.

Why Ark Copenhagen Stands Out in Denmark’s Culinary Scene

Copenhagen is home to world-famous restaurants, but Ark distinguishes itself by being:

• Fully vegan at a Michelin-recognized level.

• Focused on sustainability, making it more than just fine dining—it’s conscious dining.

• Innovative in flavor combinations, surprising even seasoned gourmands.

Final Thoughts: Is Ark Copenhagen Worth a Visit?

For travelers exploring Copenhagen’s luxury dining scene, Ark Copenhagen is a must-visit. The Michelin Green Star recognition reflects not only its commitment to sustainability but also its ability to push the boundaries of vegan cuisine. With a 9-course tasting menu that celebrates local ingredients and inventive techniques, Ark proves that fine dining can be both plant-based and world-class.

At the end of our dinner we were served our menu on a paper which had seeds inside of Forget me not plant so we can take it home and plant it!

Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply curious about the future of gastronomy, Ark delivers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Copenhagen.

Kisses!

PetraG