Bar Vitrine
Bar Vitrine, a project born across cultures and across industries, comes to life on the corner of Møntergade and Vognmagergade in the heart of Copenhagen. The 16-seat contemporary wine bar and eatery is an organic development of three distinct visions: FRAMA founder Niels Strøyer Christophersen, restaurateur Riccardo Marcon, and chef Dhriti Arora. An “ensemble” coming together in a way that they might not have apart. The result is a space without pretense — much like any endeavor of FRAMA’s could be described — and an intimate experience.
The space suggests the feeling of finding yourself in someone’s kitchen for a generous, impromptu glass of wine and bite of food — hospitality in the truest sense. Its interior is designed to encourage gathering around honest food, wine, and conversation. Panoramic street-facing windows outlined with steel frame, the warm interior for the eyes of those passing by the busy corner. These steel frames are mirrored by the wooden plate and glassware storage inside; on view to guests, affirming that this is a space of comfort and warmth.
Once inside, a large birch communal table defines the modest space, complemented by inviting seating by the large windows. The Danish brutalist architecture of the building itself and its surroundings is another essential component, and new materials balance old throughout the experience. In a busy area, a haven for simplicity and warmth was the clear answer to what would be welcomed and needed in the space.
Helmed by the Indian-born, Noma-alum chef Dhriti Arora, the food program is made up of simple gestures with big impact. The menu will be à la carte and constantly changing, allowing guests to come in for a glass of wine and a small bite, or a full meal shared among friends. Arora’s approach is influenced by the food cultures she grew up with, where many different components come together to create a meal — reflective of the approach to the Bar Vitrine concept and space itself.
