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Bæst (Copenhagen, Denmark): A Masterclass in Organic, Farm-to-Table Pizza
Located in the vibrant Nørrebro district of Copenhagen, Denmark, Bæst is more than just a pizzeria—it’s a culinary experience that embodies sustainability, local sourcing, and a deep-rooted passion for creating the best pizza using organic ingredients. Since its founding, Bæst has consistently ranked among the top pizzerias globally, earning acclaim not only for its exceptional pizza but also for its commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship.
This article takes an in-depth look at how Bæst was started, why it’s considered one of the best, how it gained popularity, and what pizzas you must try when visiting.
How Bæst Started
Bæst was founded in 2014 by renowned chef Christian Puglisi, a former chef at Noma, one of the world’s most famous restaurants. Puglisi, of Italian origin, sought to combine his Italian heritage with the ethos of the New Nordic culinary movement, which emphasizes local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. With Bæst, Puglisi envisioned a pizzeria that would not only honor traditional Italian pizza-making techniques but also be deeply committed to sustainability.
From the very beginning, Puglisi set out to control as much of the production process as possible. He established a nearby organic farm called Farm of Ideas to supply the restaurant with fresh, seasonal produce, and built an in-house creamery to make fresh mozzarella and burrata. Bæst’s focus on in-house production and local sourcing has made it a standout in the world of pizza, offering a farm-to-table experience that few pizzerias can match.
Why Bæst is the Best
Bæst’s success and reputation are rooted in several factors that make it stand out from other pizzerias in Europe and beyond.
1. Organic, Farm-to-Table Ingredients
What truly sets Bæst apart is its commitment to sustainability and local sourcing. Almost all the ingredients used at Bæst come from their Farm of Ideas or other nearby organic producers. This means the vegetables, meat, and dairy products are always fresh, seasonal, and of the highest quality. This focus on organic, locally sourced ingredients is not only better for the environment but also results in pizzas bursting with authentic, natural flavors.
2. In-House Mozzarella and Charcuterie
Bæst is famous for its house-made mozzarella and burrata, which are produced fresh every day in the restaurant’s own creamery. Puglisi’s background in fine dining is evident in the craftsmanship and attention to detail that go into making these cheeses. The mozzarella is soft, creamy, and rich, while the burrata has a delicate, buttery texture that pairs beautifully with the crispy pizza dough.
In addition to the cheese, Bæst also produces its own charcuterie, including salami and prosciutto, which are cured on-site. This allows them to have complete control over the flavor and quality of their toppings, ensuring that every bite of pizza is packed with the finest ingredients.
3. The Perfect Dough
At the heart of any great pizza is the dough, and Bæst takes this seriously. The pizza dough at Bæst is made using organic, locally sourced flour and undergoes a slow fermentation process. This long fermentation creates a dough that is light, airy, and incredibly digestible, with a perfect balance of crispiness and chew. The dough is cooked in a wood-fired oven imported from Italy, which gives it a characteristic char and smoky flavor.
4. Nordic-Italian Fusion
Bæst’s pizzas are a fusion of traditional Italian techniques and Nordic culinary principles. While the base remains true to Italian traditions, the toppings often reflect the flavors of the local region, incorporating ingredients like Danish potatoes, wild mushrooms, and herbs from the restaurant’s own farm. This unique blend of Italian and Nordic influences gives Bæst a distinctive identity, offering diners a pizza experience they won’t find anywhere else.
How Bæst Became Popular
Bæst’s rise to fame can be attributed to several key factors that quickly made it a hotspot in Copenhagen and a global destination for pizza lovers.
1. Critical Acclaim
From the very beginning, Bæst received rave reviews from both local and international food critics. Its unique approach to pizza-making, commitment to sustainability, and innovative use of local ingredients caught the attention of major publications such as The Guardian, New York Times, and Eater, all of which praised the restaurant for its exceptional quality and ethos.
In 2018, Bæst was named one of the top 20 pizzerias in the world by 50 Top Pizza, further cementing its reputation as one of the best pizza places outside of Italy.
2. Sustainability Focus
As sustainability became an increasingly important factor in the food industry, Bæst’s farm-to-table philosophy resonated with a global audience. The restaurant’s transparency about where its ingredients come from and its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint appealed to environmentally conscious diners, adding to its popularity.
3. Social Media and Word of Mouth
Social media has played a significant role in Bæst’s popularity. The visually stunning pizzas—topped with fresh ingredients and house-made cheeses—are frequently shared on Instagram by food bloggers and influencers, attracting pizza enthusiasts from around the world. Coupled with glowing reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor and Yelp, Bæst’s reputation spread rapidly, making it a must-visit destination for tourists in Copenhagen.
The Story Behind Bæst: Christian Puglisi’s Vision
Christian Puglisi’s vision for Bæst was to create a pizzeria that went beyond just serving great pizza. His goal was to challenge the notion of what a pizzeria could be by combining the best of both worlds—classic Italian pizza-making traditions with the principles of New Nordic cuisine. This meant using only the freshest, organic, and locally sourced ingredients while still respecting the craftsmanship involved in making traditional pizza.
Puglisi’s attention to detail is evident in every aspect of Bæst, from the careful selection of flour for the dough to the on-site production of mozzarella and charcuterie. By controlling every step of the process, he ensures that the quality of the pizza is never compromised.
Must-Try Pizzas at Bæst
When visiting Bæst, there are several standout pizzas that showcase the restaurant’s commitment to quality and innovation.
1. Margherita
A classic that never disappoints, the Margherita at Bæst features their signature house-made mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. The combination of rich tomato sauce and creamy mozzarella is simple yet divine, and the crispy, airy crust adds the perfect texture.
2. Speck & Smoked Burrata
One of the more indulgent offerings at Bæst is the Speck & Smoked Burrata pizza. Topped with thinly sliced speck (Italian smoked ham), smoked burrata, and fresh arugula, this pizza is a harmonious blend of smoky, creamy, and peppery flavors.
3. Potato & Truffle
This pizza is a nod to Nordic cuisine, with toppings that include thinly sliced Danish potatoes, fresh truffle, and house-made mozzarella. The earthy flavors of the truffle and potatoes are perfectly balanced by the creamy cheese and light dough.
4. Salami and Peppers
For meat lovers, the Salami and Peppers pizza is a must-try. The spicy, flavorful house-made salami is paired with roasted peppers and mozzarella, creating a deliciously savory and slightly spicy pizza.
Pricing at Bæst
While Bæst offers an elevated pizza experience, the prices are reasonable given the quality of the ingredients and the craftsmanship that goes into each pizza. Here’s a general idea of the pricing:
- Classic Pizzas (Margherita, Marinara): DKK 120–140 (€16–18)
- Specialty Pizzas (Potato & Truffle, Speck & Smoked Burrata): DKK 150–180 (€20–24)
- Premium Pizzas (Salami and Peppers): DKK 180–200 (€24–27)
In addition to pizza, Bæst also offers a selection of starters and charcuterie boards, with prices ranging from DKK 70–150 (€9–20). Drinks include a curated selection of organic wines and local craft beers, typically priced between DKK 50–100 (€7–13).
Conclusion: Why Bæst is a Must-Visit for Pizza Lovers
Bæst is not just a pizzeria; it’s a destination for those who appreciate craftsmanship, sustainability, and innovation in their food. Christian Puglisi’s commitment to organic, local ingredients and his dedication to the art of pizza-making has resulted in a dining experience that is both authentic and groundbreaking.
Whether you’re a local or a traveler visiting Copenhagen, Bæst is a must-visit for any pizza lover. From its in-house mozzarella and charcuterie to its farm-fresh toppings, every bite at Bæst tells a story of quality, sustainability, and passion for food. So next time you’re in Copenhagen, make sure to stop by Bæst for an unforgettable pizza experience that blends the best of Italy and Denmark.
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