Ambitious couple opens new restaurant in collaboration with the Norrlyst group

Opening in May, in the heart of Copenhagen, on Teglgårdsstræde 8, food lovers will be able to experience a restaurant destined to shine. Head chef Edward Lee, well known in culinary circles from his time spent at Jordnær and Gaijin, is opening the restaurant that has been in simmering in his mind for the last 5 years.

CEO and owner of the Norrlyst group, Bjarke Just Nielsen, alongside Edward Lee and restaurant manager, Regitze Maria Jensen, have created a concept without dogmas that offers guests a menu different from anything else in town. Taking an omakase approach, literally translated “I leave it to you,” means the guests leave the details of their menu to the chef. The menu will take inspiration from both Japanese and Nordic cuisine, where the foundation of each dish will be flavor and texture, combined with fresh local produce and seafood.

When asked about the goals for Udtryk, Edward Lee says "Our ambitions are extremely high, and our guests will always be the ultimate judges. Cooking for people gives me the greatest joy and making each guest feel both satisfied, happy and well cared for is my goal."

It's all about expressing oneself

Restaurant Udtryk represents a culinary journey where there are no set rules, and where creativity and openness are central. It’s a restaurant that breaks with traditional guidelines and instead focuses on expression through food. With his endless curiosity, fresh ingredients, and taste as the foundation, Edward Lee strives to present dishes that are not only delicious but also sharp in their concepts. 

A love letter to the industry

Edward Lee describes the restaurant as a love letter to the industry, which is also why it was named Udtryk - expression in english. The idea arose in collaboration with restaurant manager and girlfriend, Regitze Maria Jensen. The logo is similar to the cirlce of life to represent Edward Lees life experiences:

“Udtryk will be a collection of things that I have learned and loved throughout my life and career like Cantonese and Japanese flavors with the finese of French techniques. Udtryk is born of out love, not necessity and I cannot wait to welcome our guests,” says Edward Lee.

When askes about the collaberation Regitze Maria Jensen and Edward Lee was never in doubt that they wanted to do this together. 

"It was very intuitive that we should do this together. We both have the same idea of what we believe an excellent restaurant should be. We want to bring this idea into the world and share it with guests," says restaurant manager Regitze Maria Jensen.

Udtryk is not just a restaurant; it’s a space where creativity, movement and intimacy coexist. It’s a place where even the worst day can be transformed into an evening of unforgettable taste experiences.

Layered spaces and art by Bjørn Magnussen

Edward Lee describes the restaurant as a space with many possibilities. Guests can move to the courtyard to enjoy the sound of water, a beautiful evening or a glass of champagne or wine. They can choose to stay inside and enjoy the creative artwork and peaceful ambiance surrounding them. 

"It’s a layered space with many opportunities to move around or just stay at the table and have an intimate conversation. It’s an oasis in the city without distractions or interruptions to the experience," says Edward Lee.

Known for his unique and abstract works, artist Bjørn Magnussen is the artist behind the art decor of Udtryk. He has designed Udtryk's entrance and added paintings and glass sculptures, all custom made to enhance the atmosphere of the restaurant.

Restaurant Udtryk opens on May 7 at Teglgårdsstræde 8 in downtown Copenhagen.