It’s coffee time: New café finally set to open in Aalborg

Good news for animal and coffee lovers.

Earlier this year, we reported that Starbucks would be opening in Aalborg Zoo. Now, they are finally in place.

While Aalborg Zoo has been buzzing with joy over the newborn orangutan baby, the setting for zoo visitors’ coffee breaks is now ready.

“The former greenhouse café has just reopened as Orangeriet – a modern oasis in the heart of the park focusing on quality, relaxation, and an improved guest experience,” Aalborg Zoo writes in a press release.

Previously, Penny Lane Café operated in the space, but now Aalborg Zoo itself manages both the concept and operations.

After extensive renovations, the café has been transformed into a coffee experience where the taste of Starbucks blends perfectly with the lovely atmosphere and greenery of the zoo.

“We wanted to create a gathering place in the middle of the park where guests can take a break and enjoy a good cup of coffee in calm, green surroundings,” says Henrik Vesterskov Johansen, director of Aalborg Zoo.

“Orangeriet combines the best of two worlds: the familiar quality and taste associated with Starbucks, and the unique atmosphere that only a zoological garden can offer.”

Global flavor in a local setting

The new café concept caters both to local visitors and the growing number of international guests who visit Aalborg Zoo each year.

“When traveling, people often look for something familiar. With this setup, we can give our guests an experience that feels both international and local at the same time.

We know many have a special connection to Starbucks’ coffee taste and selection – and now they can enjoy that with us, just with a view of wildlife, playgrounds, and the cozy atmosphere,” says Henrik Vesterskov Johansen.

Orangeriet is centrally located by the large lawn opposite Skovbakken and serves as a natural meeting point for the park’s guests.

As part of the new initiative, a large wooden terrace has been built around the building, where guests can enjoy their drinks outdoors under the open sky.

“We are constantly working to improve the guest experience – not only through animal encounters and education but also through facilities, wait times, selection, and those natural breaks that are important during the day. Orangeriet is more than just a café. It’s a place where you can breathe, share a good cup of coffee, and be together with those you’re visiting with,” concludes Henrik Vesterskov Johansen.

More new initiatives

The new café is part of a larger development at Aalborg Zoo in 2025, with ongoing investments to improve both facilities and experiences.

Earlier this year, a new entrance area with an improved ticket system and a new shop was inaugurated – a solution that has already significantly reduced waiting times at the entrance and created a more flexible and welcoming arrival for guests.

On June 21, Aalborg Zoo will also open a new and larger enclosure for red pandas, where the pandas will be joined by Japanese cranes, moving into the park for the first time.

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