Conrads has been one of my go to spots in Vejle for years. It’s tucked inside Den Smidtske Gård right in the center of town, and it’s always busy. Most of my visits through the years have been for brunch, which is really good and one of the reasons Conrads is so popular, but the other day Trine and I stopped by for dinner, and that turned out to be just as solid.
I ordered their Helt i Fisk, which is built on butter fried Danish rye bread and topped with panko breaded plaice, hand peeled shrimp, salmon, and crisp lettuce. There’s a lot going on, but it all works. It’s fresh and flavorful, and the portion is big without feeling heavy. If you’re in the mood for seafood, this is a good pick.
Trine went for what’s listed on the menu as En Stor Tartelet (A Big Tartelet), and that turned out to be a bit of an understatement. It was gigantic. Creamy chicken and asparagus served in a crisp puff pastry shell, set on a base of salad and cherry tomatoes. Tarteletter are a big deal in Jutland, and this oversized version was a hit with both of us.
Tarteletter are old school Danish food. They originated in France, but we have made them our own. You’ll find them all over Denmark, especially in Jylland where I’m from, and they’re usually smaller than the giant one we had at Conrads. The typical filling is the one with creamy chicken gravy and asparagus but another common filling is ham in white gravy with peas and carrot. My grandma would make them with fish balls in tomato sauce, but I haven’t seen that version anywhere else
We had a very nice evening at Conrads. The food is classic Danish cafe fare done well, but what really makes Conrads stand out is the atmosphere. The staff are genuinely friendly, and the place is always busy, whether you come for brunch or dinner. That steady crowd tells you everything you need to know. If you’re in Vejle and not sure where to go, Conrads is a very safe bet.
Conrads, Søndergade 14E, 7100 Vejle, Denmark
