Say it with me: huu-gah. Hygge is one of those not quite translatable words: it’s Danish for the idea of finding pleasure and beauty in simple, everyday things. It’s an idea of coziness that is catching on around the world.
The owners of Bar Hygge translate it here in a hodgepodge of weathered wood and vintage armchairs and couches in cozy groupings, and a dining room accented with little shabby chic decorative touches. It just feels at once stylish and homey, familiar, and comfortable.
To be clear, this is not a Danish restaurant. The menu includes a nice selection of salads, vegetarian dishes, and entrées. Their fries are good. And if you are in the mood to snack, try a hygge board where you can sample small portions of various cleverly prepared items from a list. These servings are minuscule but delicious and artfully presented. The drinks menu includes creative craft beer brewed on premises. We recently enjoyed a basil-infused IPA here. They also have tap wine and a great by-the-glass wine list, plus some inspired cocktails.
I love this bar for a late-night snack or as a place to relax after a visit to one of the art museums on the Ben Franklin Parkway nearby. It is a perfect spot to lean into a conversation with friends and savor the simple everyday luxuries of food, drink, and friendship.