9 Best Restaurants to Check out in Norway

9 Best Restaurants to Check out in Norway

9 Must-Visit Restaurants in Norway for a Delectable Experience

Friends_Dining_Together
WRITTEN BY
Kevin Andrew Ordoñez
PUBLISHED ONApril 2, 2024
"Snowy Mountain Village with Red Cabins by the Sea"

Norway is a culinary treasure trove, blending traditional recipes with innovative culinary techniques. Imagine eating the freshest fish or trying meats you’ve never heard of before. Norway has it all, from cozy little spots to fancy places with views that take your breath away.

Ready to explore and taste the best? Let’s dive into the top restaurants you won’t want to miss and discover why they’re considered some of the best places to visit in Norway.

1. Maaemo

Maaemo stands out in Oslo as the only restaurant to earn three Michelin stars. This prestigious award signifies an exceptional dining experience focusing on innovative Norwegian cuisine that highlights the use of organic and natural ingredients.

Guests can expect a menu of high-quality courses designed to surprise and delight the senses. The ingredients are sourced from local farmers who practice sustainable methods, ensuring each bite is delicious and environmentally responsible.

The chefs at Maaemo take pride in offering an immersive dining experience that goes beyond just eating. Every dish tells a story about Norway’s rich culinary heritage, with a strong emphasis on flavors that are both pure and intense.

One of the key highlights of dining at Maaemo is its dedication to showcasing the best of what Norway has to offer. From seafood caught in the cold Norwegian waters to wild berries from the forest, every element adds depth and flavor to your meal.

Booking a table at Maaemo requires planning due to its popularity among food enthusiasts worldwide. The price reflects the premium experience that combines breathtaking views over Oslo, meticulous attention to detail in every course, and a cozy and refined atmosphere.

2. RE-NAA

RE-NAA is Stavanger’s culinary gem, standing out with two Michelin stars. This prestigious award underscores the restaurant’s excellence in both cuisine and service.

The restaurant offers an intimate setting, featuring only 23 seats. This ensures every guest enjoys a unique and personal dining experience.

At RE-NAA, the focus is on seasonal ingredients. The chefs create a creative tasting menu that changes with the seasons. They use fresh produce to bring out natural flavors.

Visitors often praise RE-NAA for its attention to detail and innovative dishes. Each meal becomes a memorable journey through tastes and textures.

RE-NAA should be at the top of your list for those planning a trip or looking for exceptional dining experiences in Norway. Its exquisite cuisine, limited seating, and focus on fresh ingredients make it a must-visit destination.

3. UNDER

UNDER is Europe’s first underwater restaurant, and it’s located in Lindesnes, Norway. This place offers guests a chance to dine with a view unlike any other. Visitors can explore marine life from their table through its large panoramic window.

The focus at UNDER is on sustainable seafood and local produce. The staff works hard to ensure that every plate served tastes good and respects the environment. They back this up by choosing seasonal ingredients that are sourced close to home.

Due to its popularity, it’s advisable to plan ahead and book a table at UNDER. It’s not just about having lunch or dinner; it’s about having an experience that connects you with nature from inside a room beneath the ocean.

4. Cornelius Sjømatrestaurant

Cornelius Sjømatrestaurant is a unique dining destination in Norway, offering a one-of-a-kind experience. This restaurant is not just any place to eat. It’s on a small island near Bergen; the only way to get there is by boat.

What makes Cornelius truly special is its Meteorological Menu. The chefs create dishes based on the weather of the day. Sunny days might bring light, refreshing meals, while colder days feature warmer, hearty dishes.

The focus here is on fresh seafood caught right from the surrounding waters. Diners can expect delicious fish soup, main dish options that highlight local catches, and other seafood delights that change with what’s available and fresh.

Portion sizes are generous, ensuring you leave satisfied after your meal experience at this distinct location. Making reservations is recommended due to its popularity and unique access method.

5. Speilsalen Britannia

Speilsalen Britannia is nestled in the heart of Trondheim, within the walls of the historic Britannia Hotel. This restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience that deeply respects Norwegian traditions.

The focus here is on creating dishes that tell a story about Norway’s rich culinary heritage. Each plate served at Speilsalen is a masterpiece, combining local ingredients with innovative cooking techniques to produce familiar and surprising flavors.

What sets Speilsalen apart from other restaurants is its recognition by the prestigious Michelin Guide. It has been awarded a Michelin star, an honor that speaks volumes about its exceptional cuisine and outstanding service.

Achieving such an accolade requires creativity and skill in the kitchen and an unwavering commitment to quality across all aspects of dining – from selecting ingredients to setting tables and serving guests.

6. Kvitnes Gård

Kvitnes Gård is nestled on the Vesterålen Islands, offering a secluded and picturesque setting. Here, guests find stunning views that look like they’re from a fairy tale.

This place is special because it makes food using things grown on its land and fish caught by local fishermen. This means everything you eat is fresh and full of flavor.

The setting at Kvitnes Gård feels like stepping back in time. It’s cozy and small, making your meal feel personal and warm.

They believe in a farm-to-fork way of eating. This means they use animals and plants from their farm to make your meal. They also pick the best wines to go with their dishes, focusing on those that match well with local produce.

Dining here offers more than just food; it’s an experience wrapped in history, nature, and kindness toward the earth.

7. Lysverket

Lysverket is located in the heart of Bergen, Norway, housed within the walls of KODE 4, a prominent art museum. This unique setting blends the culinary and visual arts worlds, offering guests an immersive experience.

The restaurant is celebrated for its dedication to modern Norwegian cuisine. It places a significant emphasis on seafood, drawing from Norway’s rich maritime resources to create dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in local tradition.

Lysverket guests can expect a meal and an adventure for their taste buds. The menu constantly evolves, featuring seasonal ingredients that highlight the best of what Norway has to offer at any given time.

What sets Lysverket apart is not only its food but also its ambiance. The contemporary art setting provides a backdrop that enhances the dining experience, making each visit memorable.

8. Statholdergaarden

Statholdergaarden sits in the heart of Oslo’s old quarter, known for its classic fine-dining experience. This restaurant blends elegance and culinary excellence, drawing inspiration from Nordic and French cuisines.

The atmosphere inside Statholdergaarden is nothing short of elegant. Diners are treated to an ambiance that complements the food served on their plates. With its refined touch, the decor sets the perfect stage for a memorable dining experience.

What makes Statholdergaarden stand out is its location, decor, and menu. The chefs craft dishes that tell a story, combining traditional Nordic ingredients with French cooking techniques. Each plate served is a testament to the chef’s creativity and attention to detail.

Holding a Michelin star, Statholdergaarden has been recognized for its refined dishes and impeccable service. Achieving such an accolade points to the restaurant’s commitment to excellence – from food preparation to customer service.

9. Fjord Restaurant

Fjord Restaurant sits right by the Oslo fjord, offering guests a view that’s hard to beat. Its location allows diners to look out over the water while they eat. This makes it perfect for those who love nature and great food.

The restaurant is known for its seafood dishes. They use fish and other sea creatures caught in Norwegian waters. This means the food is very fresh. People come here to taste seafood that just came from the ocean.

Guests can choose where to sit when dining at Fjord Restaurant. There are tables inside and outside. Eating outdoors lets guests enjoy the beautiful scenery around them even more.

Whether you’re looking for fine dining or just want to enjoy good food in a great location, Fjord Restaurant has something special. With friendly service, diverse food options, including fries, and an unforgettable view, it’s truly a perfect place for anyone visiting Norway.

Things To Know When You Dine in a Norwegian Restaurant

"Colorful Waterfront Buildings Reflecting on Calm Water"
  • Always check the restaurant’s opening hours before visiting. Many places in Norway have specific dining times.
  • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; rounding up the bill is common.
  • Book a table in advance, especially in popular restaurants, to avoid disappointment.
  • Driving in Norway is one way to explore places, from restaurants to hotels. Ensure you have an international driving permit in Norway if you’re from outside the EU/EEA.
  • Be prepared for the cost; dining out in Norway can be expensive due to high living standards.
  • Try local Norwegian cuisine, like fish dishes, game meats, and berries, for an authentic experience.
  • Respect local customs, such as saying “takk for maten” (thanks for the food) after a meal to show appreciation.
  • Note that many Norwegian restaurants focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
  • Alcohol can significantly increase your bill. Consider this when ordering, as Norway has high taxes on alcoholic beverages.
  • Be aware of dietary restrictions and allergies. Norwegian menus often feature seafood and dairy products.

Make sure to check out our article “Best Things To Do in Norway” to fill up your itinerary with amazing activities, places to visit in the country, and more.

Discover Norway’s Culinary Treasures

Norway has amazing food places. You can try something new at Maaemo or eat under the sea at Under. Each spot is special. They use local food, cook in fun ways, and are in beautiful spots. These places show off Norway’s good food and love for nature.

They are perfect for exploring Norway’s food world. They offer more than just meals. They let you see and feel Norway’s beauty.

So, don’t wait. Book a table and start your food adventure in Norway. It’s a trip you won’t forget.

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