Pilen bar & bodega Bornholm

07/08/2025: This restaurant, once known as Ella’s Konditori and famed for its traditional dishes like wienerschnitzel, has been completely reimagined. Thanks to the passion of four incredibly enthusiastic owners, Simon, Ludvig, Malthe, and Max, and the help of many talented friends, it has blossomed into one of the most exciting Italian restaurants I’ve experienced in Denmark. Today, the focus is purely on pasta, with three main courses to choose from. Don’t let the limited menu fool you, each dish is so well-crafted that even something you might usually pass over elsewhere becomes a revelation here. Every bite is a journey through layers of flavors, perfectly balanced and deeply satisfying. Portion sizes might seem modest at first glance, but the food is rich and hearty, especially if you opt for the menu including a starter and dessert. Everything is handmade, and I was lucky enough to peek into the kitchen and watch as each pasta screw was hand-rolled. They go to great lengths to source locally, sometimes even foraging for wild garlic near Hammersø in the spring. Reservations are highly recommended. We were fortunate to get a table as walk-ins, but saw several people turned away. This is a “please wait to be seated” restaurant, and the cozy atmosphere makes it worth the wait. The space retains the charm of its past, with beautiful old trees and a tranquil fish pond from the original Konditori. If you’re willing to swap “brun sovs og kartofler” for some of the finest pasta in the country, this spot is a must-visit. It’s a heartfelt, flavor-packed experience and I can’t recommend it enough. Bravo to Simon, Ludvig, Malthe, and Max for creating something truly special!

17/07/2025: So cozy and quiet - close to the beach and people - but we didn't feel it