Amator Cph: A Masterpiece of Minimalist Restaurant Design in Copenhagen

A Unique Dining Experience in Østerbro

Nestled in the heart of Østerbro, Copenhagen, Amator Cph is a restaurant that redefines minimalist restaurant design with its raw materials, handcrafted furniture, and intimate atmosphere. Designed by Polish architect Adam Wierciński of wiercinski-studio, the space merges functionality with aesthetics, offering an experience that blurs the line between a café, restaurant, and private dining venue. The project embraces simplicity, using custom-made furniture and carefully curated design elements to create an inviting and homely environment.

A Vision Rooted in Culinary Passion

The concept of Amator Cph was born from the vision of Mateusz Sarnowski, known as Mati Pichci, who honed his skills at the world-renowned Noma before opening his own space. His goal was to create a restaurant that felt like a home dining room, where guests could enjoy food in a warm, communal setting. To bring this vision to life, he collaborated with Adam Wierciński, marking the architect’s first interior project in Copenhagen.

The Essence of Minimalist Restaurant Design

Amator Cph embraces a design philosophy that prioritizes raw materials, clean lines, and a strong connection between space and purpose. The intimate 50 m² interior revolves around a central communal table composed of multiple angled oak tabletops, which can be reconfigured to accommodate different dining arrangements. The unique modular design allows for flexibility while maintaining the aesthetic integrity of the space.

Minimalist oak stools, part of the upcoming wiercinski-objects furniture line, further enhance the sense of simplicity and functionality. The use of raw steel and solid oak throughout the interior creates a cohesive material palette that reflects the authenticity of the chef’s cuisine.

Seamless Interaction Between Kitchen and Guests

One of the defining aspects of minimalist restaurant design is the seamless connection between the kitchen and dining area. At Amator Cph, a low bar made from raw steel and brown mirrors serves as a subtle partition, maintaining an open dialogue between the chef and guests. This openness is reinforced by a large storefront window, which provides passersby with a glimpse into the heart of the restaurant.

A high counter by the window offers an alternative seating option, allowing diners to take in the views of Copenhagen’s charming townhouses while enjoying their meals. Every detail of the space is designed to foster interaction and engagement, making the dining experience feel both personal and immersive.

A Tribute to Craftsmanship and Authenticity

All of the furniture and interior details were meticulously crafted in Poland before being transported to Copenhagen. The commitment to authenticity is evident in the hand-finished steel structures, custom shelving, and the use of natural Polish linen as a backdrop for floating shelves. The presence of a tree trunk fragment near the entrance serves as a subtle homage to the natural materials that define the restaurant’s aesthetic.

Breaking the otherwise neutral palette, yellow plywood shelves add a playful touch, reminiscent of cozy home interiors. The integration of these elements ensures that the space remains visually engaging while staying true to its minimalist ethos.

Enhancing the Atmosphere with Music

Amator Cph extends its design philosophy beyond visual aesthetics by incorporating high-quality sound into the dining experience. A custom-designed vinyl shelf, paired with speakers from Arda Audio, creates a rich auditory atmosphere that complements the intimate setting. The presence of a turntable and curated vinyl collection further reinforces the restaurant’s commitment to sensory engagement, making it a space where guests can enjoy not just food, but an immersive experience.

A New Standard in Minimalist Restaurant Design

Amator Cph is a testament to the power of minimalist restaurant design, proving that simplicity and raw materials can create a space that is both elegant and inviting. The collaboration between chef Mateusz Sarnowski and architect Adam Wierciński has resulted in a dining environment that feels personal, thoughtful, and deeply connected to its purpose. By prioritizing craftsmanship, sustainability, and a seamless guest experience, Amator Cph sets a new standard for intimate restaurant interiors.

All Photographs are works of Paolo Galgani