Trine and I had been talking about going to La Glace for ages, and on a Sunday afternoon earlier this year we finally made it happen. You can feel the atmosphere even before you step inside. The old windows, the beautiful cakes on display, and the quiet buzz from the people waiting in line. There is almost always a line outside, but it doesn’t really matter. You stand there looking at the cakes, discussing what you might want, and before you know it, it’s your turn.
La Glace is the oldest patisserie in Denmark, founded in 1870. The mirrors, the dark wood panels, and the calm atmosphere make it feel like a little piece of old Copenhagen. A place with understated elegance, a sense of tradition, and impeccable manners. I’ve never felt rushed there, even though there is usually a long line outside. You get to sit, settle in, and enjoy the whole experience.
While I’ve been to La Glace several times before, it was Trine’s first time, so of course we had to order Sportskage (Sports Cake), La Glace’s legendary layer cake. The cake was created in 1891 for the premiere of a play called Sportsmænd (sportsmen), so despite the title, there’s no hidden health angle or athletic backstory here. Sportskage is pure indulgence with whipped cream, nougatine and a chewy macaron base, and the only exercise involved is lifting your fork. It is every bit as decadent as it sounds, but it is rich, so we shared a slice, which was perfect.
We also had a slice of Forårskage (Spring Cake), a lighter layer cake with raspberry mousse, and such a nice little contrast to the Sportskage.
And then there is the hot chocolate. I’m tempted to say that you haven’t really been to La Glace until you’ve tried it, because it is one of the best cups of hot chocolate I have ever had. It is made with whole milk, heavy cream, and dark chocolate, and it comes with a big bowl of whipped cream on the side. If you still have room, they will refill the small pot for free. It is such a lovely place, and I highly recommend stopping by if you haven’t been yet.
What should you order at La Glace?
If it’s your first time, Sportskage and hot chocolate are non negotiable.
La Glace, Skoubogade 3, 1158 København
