Indulge in some royal shopping at Royal Copenhagen, Denmark’s oldest and most exclusive design brand. The flagship store on Amagertorv in the heart of downtown Copenhagen is a bastion of Danish traditions, and home to the classic Danish blue fluted dinnerware that continues to be handpainted by skilled craftspeople.
Annual Christmas Tables exhibit at Royal Copenhagen. — Photo courtesy of Royal Copenhagen
Royal Copenhagen started out as the Royal Danish Porcelain Manufactory in the 1700s, by a pharmacist named Müller who formed a partnership with the Danish Royal Family, passing into private hands in 1868.
Service at the beautiful Amagertorv store is attentive and knowledgeable: Should you want your packages gift wrapped, this will be done to perfection.
Do note however that the Royal Copenhagen museum exhibit is no longer on the premises, despite many online listings continuing to suggest otherwise. Instead, we suggest a trip to Amalienborg Museum for the Flora Danica exhibit. Flora Danica is Royal Copenhagen’s most expensive range: it dates from the 1700s as a gift between royals and is still used by kings and queens; a plate will cost you upwards of USD 700.
The store holds occasional events. During fall break, for example (in 2012, this is between 15 and 19 October), children can take an art workshop and can paint their own plate – though this will unfortunately only be available to collect after glazing and firing three weeks later.
Another tradition is the Royal Copenhagen Christmas Tables exhibition, held each year in December; the tables are decorated by a select group of artists and designers using company products and a special theme, transforming the store front into a miniature art gallery.
The store’s restaurant, The Royal Cafe, makes a pleasant break from shopping – and the chance to dine on Royal Copenhagen porcelain, naturally.
