Vegetarian and experimental kitchen

A few years ago, Huset No 7 fully embraced a green, meat-free kitchen—and with great success. Deputy Cultural House Manager Jonas Bondrop explains that when they first made the shift from traditional food to vegetarian, there was concern about whether it could sell and whether it was a sustainable business in the long run. But as Jonas told the staff back then: "If it doesn’t work out, we’ll just change it again." With a "what’s the worst that can happen" attitude, they dove in and haven’t looked back since.

At the café, which is open Monday to Thursday, guests can enjoy vegetarian open-faced sandwiches, nachos, paninis, and the "hit of the day" in a cosy setting. There is also a vegetarian communal meal Monday to Thursday at 5:30 PM. On Thursdays, the weekends with "Candlelight and Leftovers," which, amusingly, is the most popular night and also helps reduce food waste.

In the kitchen, it’s second nature to experiment daily while also focusing on food waste. And the result? Ingredients that truly shine, and guests who keep coming back.

"We want to be the informal place where you can meet, get inspired, and enjoy a good meal—perhaps one you wouldn’t have made yourself."

Jonas Bondrop, Deputy Cultural House Manager at Huset no 7

People at the centre

At Huset No 7, they aren’t afraid to be among those who lead the way and show that the path can look different from the traditional one. They cherish the cosiness, passion, and excitement of bringing together people from all backgrounds to work towards one goal—running the cultural house. The majority of staff members at Huset No 7 are in flexible jobs, vulnerable in various ways, or have invisible disabilities.

The dedicated employees, mostly parttime job workers, ensure a warm and welcoming atmosphere from Monday to Thursday while managing the kitchen, serving guests, organizing activities, and maintaining both indoor and outdoor spaces.

In addition to the everyday creativity, culture, and cosiness, Huset No 7 also aims to support the cultural scene in Herning. For example, the café closed during the World Cup week in Herning in June 2024 to be a meeting point for over 350 volunteers, an essential part of the large event. The staff provided catering every day for up to 150 volunteers at a time, and the menu, as always at Huset No 7, was vegetarian.

"It’s inspiring to be around people who have a great desire to succeed."

Pia Worm, Cultural Consultant and Volunteer Coordinator at Herning Municipality