The inside track to New York

How long have you been living in New York and what do you do professionally?
I have lived in this city for 15 years. I am the founder & co-owner of The Copenhagen in Manhattan – the only Danish restaurant in NYC.

What is the best thing about living in New York?
That you can do ANYTHING at ANY time of the day or night. If you fancy oysters and a glass of chilled champagne or a good movie at the theater at 3 am, there is always somewhere you can go.

What do you find surprises Scandinavians most when they visit New York?
It still comes as a great surprise to most Scandinavians that you are expected to tip here when you go out for something to eat or drink. Our lovely servers at The Copenhagen have been left everything from no tip at all to a couple of Danish (!) pennies after an expensive lunch or dinner.

When is the best time to visit New York and why?
There is nothing like NY in the fall – it is totally magical to see the trees change color to beautiful vibrant orange and red hues. Every year it comes as the same pleasant surprise.

What three things would you recommend for people to visit/eat/try in New York, besides the well-known tourist attractions?
Coffee is in fashion like never before, and here in the city, gourmet coffee shops are springing up one after another.  I would highly recommend a bit of coffee-shop-hopping. Start at WTF in Fort Greene, Brooklyn – and don’t forget to finish with a large licorice latte in Greenpoint at BUDIN. They also have more than 9 different espresso beans that are all worth a try – the perfect pick-me-up after a long flight!

I have a Master’s in music therapy and psychology from Aalborg University and I love music – especially jazz. 55 Bar in the West Village offers great jazz, with a mix of the super-famous and up-and-coming talents. I’ve had some of my best NY moments there, basking in the beautiful sounds, with a cheap drink in one hand and a slice of pizza in the other –the pizza is from the joint next door as 55 Bar does not have any food on its menu.

Then I recommend the Sleep No More show at The McKittrick Hotel. An interactive theater experience like nothing you’ve experienced before. Just do it! I’m not saying any more...