What is New Nordic cuisine

The Nordic countries are famous for the New Nordic Cuisine, and they have a rich culinary heritage and use many local products.

In 2004, twelve Nordic chefs wrote the manifesto for the New Nordic Kitchen, aiming to combine the best of Nordic culinary traditions.

It stated that chefs should focus more on purity, season, ethics, sustainability, and quality. Since then, Denmark has been a frontrunner in gastronomic innovation.

The focus on protecting nature and climate has been critical for the Nordic countries for many years.

These facts help create fantastic eco-friendly agricultural products. In combination with natural ingredients, you will find one of the secrets behind the famous New Nordic Cuisine.

New Nordic kitchen manifesto

As Nordic chefs, they feel that the time has come to create a new Nordic kitchen that, in its good taste and unique character, compares with the standards of the world's most incredible kitchens.

The chefs also want to develop new applications for traditional Nordic food products and combine the best of Nordic cookery and traditions with the impulse from abroad. So, like Nordic design, The New Nordic Cuisine sticks to the basics.

5 principles of New Nordic Cuisine

1. Local and seasonal ingredients

Chefs focus on using locally sourced and in-season ingredients, promoting sustainability and supporting local farmers and producers.

2. Nordic flavors and traditions

The cuisine draws inspiration from traditional Nordic ingredients and cooking methods, such as smoking, curing, fermenting, and foraging for wild plants and herbs.

3. Simplicity and purity

Dishes are often prepared with simple techniques to highlight the natural flavours of the ingredients. The presentation tends to be minimalistic, allowing the food quality to speak for itself.

4. Creativity and innovation

While rooted in tradition, New Nordic cuisine encourages chefs to experiment and innovate, incorporating modern cooking techniques and creative presentations.

5. Ethical and sustainable practices

The movement strongly emphasizes ethical sourcing and sustainable food production, with a focus on minimizing waste and environmental impact.

Overall, New Nordic cuisine seeks to celebrate the region's unique flavors and culinary heritage while promoting sustainability, innovation, and a connection to nature.

Best restaurants in the world

Denmark has a leading role in gastronomy, and in 2026, Denmark 42 Michelin restaurants. This makes Denmark the leading country in the Nordic region for gastronomy.