Although it is translated as cold buffet, Danish koldt bord is a traditional meal in which a variety of cold and warm dishes are served buffet-style. Danish tradition suggests that every buffet should have a serving of meat, cold cuts, seafood, cheese, bread, sandwiches, pickles, and desserts, but there are no strict rules concerning the choice of food.

Many luncheon restaurants include koldt bord as part of their regular service, and traditional Christmas or Easter lunch in Denmark is often served in a similar manner.