Reference
Reader questions
The questions readers send me most often, answered as directly as I can. Where the answer depends on Alchemist's own policy, I say so.
How much should I budget in total?
The published menu price is DKK 5,600 per guest, with beverage pairings from DKK 2,000. With an entry pairing, allow around DKK 7,600 per person before transport and accommodation, and note that drinks are settled at the end of the visit. Prices change; check the restaurant's own site.
How long does the evening really take?
The published range is four to six hours and the upper end is common. Plan nothing afterwards and arrange your journey home in advance.
Can you help me get a reservation?
No, and I would be suspicious of anyone who says they can. I am one person writing about a dinner I paid for, with no relationship to Alchemist or its booking partner. My planning notes explains the release rhythm so you can use the official channel effectively.
Why is nothing ever available when I look?
Because availability is not continuous. Dates are opened in quarterly blocks and taken up quickly, so an empty calendar between releases is the normal state rather than a fault. Follow the restaurant's newsletter and social channels for release announcements.
Is a table for two harder to get?
Yes. The restaurant seats parties of two, four and six, and has said demand concentrates on the smallest tables. A party of four or six has better odds.
Is it suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Ask the restaurant directly at the time of booking. A menu of this length can accommodate a great deal when told in advance, and very little when told on the night.
Is there a dress code?
No. Wear what you like, but wear shoes you can stand in for hours and bring a real coat between October and April — the island is exposed.
Is the room accessible?
The evening involves moving between several spaces and time on your feet. Anyone with mobility needs, back trouble or limited stamina should contact the restaurant before booking; they handle the question routinely and can advise on what is possible.
Can I bring children?
Practically, it is a poor fit: a late finish, a long sequence, and content deliberately intended to be uncomfortable on adult subjects. Ask the restaurant about its policy if you are considering it.
Is photography allowed?
Phones are not banned, but the room is dark by design and images generally disappoint. The guests who describe the most rewarding evenings put the phone away early.
Do I tip?
Service is included in Denmark and tipping is not expected. Small additional amounts for exceptional service are appreciated and never assumed.
What happens if I need to cancel?
The restaurant's own reservation policy governs this, and it is the only document that counts. Note that the service fee charged on the deposit is not refundable. Read the policy before you book.
Should I take the non-alcoholic pairing even though I drink?
It is a serious option. Six hours is a long time to be drinking, several servings are designed to unsettle you, and the non-alcoholic programme is priced level with the entry wine flight for a reason. The combined pairing is the middle path.
Is it worth it?
Depends entirely on what you want from an evening. If you want an outstanding meal in a comfortable room, there are better values in Copenhagen and I would point you to them. If you want a piece of authored work that happens to be edible, and you are willing to be a participant rather than a customer, there is very little else like it. I would not recommend it as anyone's first fine-dining experience, and I say that as someone who is glad she went.
Where do your facts come from?
My own visit for anything I describe first-hand, and for everything else: material published by Alchemist, the MICHELIN Guide, the World's 50 Best listings and mainstream press coverage. See how I write this for what I check and how I correct mistakes.