Jailhouse Copenhagen

Description:

• The name of this bar reminds us of Elvis's "Jailhouse Rock." It's set amid the densest concentration of gay men's bars in town, about a block from its nearest competitor (the also-recommended Men's Bar, which attracts a similar clientele). This is the bar most quickly cited as an amicable and amenable watering hole for the leather, bear, and S&M communities -- or those who merely dream about them. The name of the place influences its decor: Imagine a large, shadowy space with a prominent, beer-soaked bar, battered walls and floors, and iron bars that subdivide the space into a series of simulated jail cells. If you're in the mood for a meal, there's a restaurant upstairs, where crisp white napery contrasts with simulations of cellblocks. Food is Danish and Scandinavian, with specialties that focus on old-fashioned, tried-and-true comfort food, with some modern and somewhat experimental twists. Overall, food is a lot better than what you might have expected in jail. The bar is open from 2pm to 2am (Thurs and Fri until 5am), and entrance is free, with a beer costing DKK45 ($7.70/£4.50). The restaurant is open only Thursday to Saturday 6 to 11pm, with a fixed-price, three-course meal going for DKK285 ($48/£29).

• © Frommer's 2013