Før Natten is Copenhagen's new place to be The Danish capital's nightlife has a new epicenter

In the heart of Copenhagen, along the streets where nightlife moves with natural elegance, Før Natten emerges as a new chapter in the city’s bar culture. Its name, which in Danish means “before the night,” says it all: it’s a space designed to anticipate the rhythm of the night, to create an atmosphere of expectation and connection before the lights of the clubs fully come to life.

The project was born from the collaboration between Christian Anker and Victor Maxner, two figures with different yet complementary backgrounds. Anker is known for overseeing the opening of Soho House Copenhagen and for his ability to transform social gatherings into something curated and intentional. Maxner, on the other hand, comes from the world of brand experiences, having collaborated with names like YSL Beauty to create immersive, multisensory events. After years of working together across Copenhagen’s most refined venues, the two decided to establish their own space—one where taste, aesthetics, and hospitality converge seamlessly.

Før Natten is open only on Fridays and Saturdays, from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and entry is reserved for a carefully selected guestlist. The concept is simple yet precise: a list of expertly balanced cocktails, a single wine label, the signature Maxan shot, and a rotating selection of drinks or experiences that change weekly, all priced at 70 DKK. There are no excesses or distractions—each element contributes to shaping a clearly defined moment, designed to accompany the transition between day and night.

The atmosphere is intimate and visually striking. Bathed in soft red light, the space seems to breathe to the rhythm of the music, shifting from Italo disco to live piano performances. The walls reflect shadows and glimmers, creating a visual play that enhances the feeling of suspension. Adding to the layered experience is Little Simon’s Bar, a smaller, more secluded room accessible only at certain times during the evening, revealing a more private and contemplative dimension of the venue. In a nightlife landscape often dominated by repetitive formats, Før Natten stands out for its ability to give shape to anticipation, turning the prelude to the night into a distinct, curated, and conscious experience.