Danish Chef Frederik Bille Brahe Transforms Apollo Bar & Kantine into a Gastronomic Haven
When Danish chef Frederik Bille Brahe took over Apollo Bar & Kantine in 2017, little did he know that he would transform it into a bustling meeting place for art, design, and fashion enthusiasts in central Copenhagen. What started as a simple museum cafe soon became a hotspot for elevated comfort food and creative gatherings.
Under Bille Brahe’s direction, the once-unassuming cafe evolved into a vibrant space with a menu featuring daily ceviche, homemade sourdough toast, and other innovative dishes. The interior was adorned with paint-splattered chairs and classical statues, creating a unique atmosphere that attracted a diverse crowd.
However, by 2020, the success of the Apollo began to weigh on Bille Brahe, who felt disconnected from his creative roots. The pandemic further pushed him to reevaluate his priorities and reignite his gastronomic ambitions. Inspired by feminist theorist Donna J. Haraway’s philosophy of adjusting things bit by bit, Bille Brahe decided to revamp the Apollo and focus on dinner service.
The new Apollo, which opened in late February, offers a seasonal menu of lunch dishes and a more refined dinner experience. Bille Brahe, along with his executive chef Yuta Kurahashi, served a family-style dinner to friends, family, and collaborators, featuring dishes like redfish sashimi and a unique radicchio salad.
The evening was filled with laughter, good food, and music, as guests enjoyed a natural Chenin Blanc and an impromptu piano concert by jazz pianist August Rosenbaum. The intimate dining room, adorned with a symbolic painted tapestry and restored furniture, provided the perfect backdrop for the gathering.
As Bille Brahe shared his philosophy of generosity and hospitality, guests reflected on the transformation of the Apollo and the importance of creating a welcoming space for all. The evening ended with a reminder from Bille Brahe: “Give everything you can without expecting anything in return. That’s my philosophy.”
With the reopening of the Apollo, Bille Brahe has found a renewed sense of purpose and connection to his culinary roots. The Apollo Bar & Kantine continues to be a place where art, food, and community come together, creating a unique and unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Copenhagen.
