La Fontaine

La Fontaine describes itself as the oldest jazz venue in Copenhagen, and this small bar on Kompagnistræde, in the old town between Strøget and the canal, has a devoted following among musicians and jazz fans. It is a traditional late-night jazz bar rather than a concert hall, and the music happens close to the audience.

Live music is the main reason to come. Bands play on Wednesday from 20:30 to 23:00 and from Friday to Sunday from 21:00 to 01:00. The programme lists quartets, trios and organ groups, and on Sundays there are jam sessions. The atmosphere at a good set is intimate and lively, and it is one of the best places in the city to hear jazz without the formality of a concert.

La Fontaine suits jazz lovers, night owls and anyone looking for an authentic late-night bar in the centre. Seating is limited and there are no table reservations: it is first come, first served, so arrive before the music starts if you want a seat. The bar is busy on Friday and Saturday nights, when the music can run late and the room fills up quickly. Musicians who want to play there book through a separate email address.

The bar is open late every night. From Monday to Thursday and on Sunday it is open from 19:00 to 03:00, and on Friday and Saturday from 20:00 to 05:00, so it is a natural last stop after dinner or drinks elsewhere. Check the online programme for upcoming bands before you go, as the line-up changes from week to week.

Kompagnistræde is a narrow street parallel to Strøget, a short walk from Gammel Strand metro station and from City Hall Square. Ruby on Nybrogade is a short walk away, and the restaurants and bars of the old town are all within a few minutes on foot. For a regular night of jazz in the centre, La Fontaine is the classic choice.

Because the bar opens long before and closes long after the music, it also works simply as a late-night bar on nights without a band. On busy nights be prepared to stand, and if you want somewhere to sit, arrive well before the first set begins.