Browse by Cuisine
Restaurants in Oslo
Showing 12 of 12 restaurantsSignature Dishes
Oslo's cuisine emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients, particularly seafood, game, and berries. Flavors are often clean and natural, highlighting the quality of the ingredients. While traditional dishes remain popular, modern Oslo chefs are experimenting with innovative techniques and international flavors.
Rakfisk
Fermented trout, traditionally prepared with salt and lactic acid bacteria. It has a very strong, pungent flavor and is usually served with lefse (a thin, soft flatbread), potatoes, onions, sour cream, and flatbread crackers.
Lutefisk
Dried whitefish (usually cod, but sometimes ling or burbot) treated with lye. It becomes gelatinous and is traditionally served with bacon fat, brown cheese, mustard, and potatoes during the Christmas season.
Smalahove
A sheep's head, which is singed, dried, smoked, and steamed or boiled. It's traditionally eaten around Christmas time. The ears and eyes are often eaten first.
Fårikål
Norway's national dish, a simple mutton and cabbage stew flavored with whole black peppercorns. It's traditionally eaten in the autumn.
Brunost
Brown cheese, made from whey, milk, and cream. It has a sweet, caramel-like flavor and is often eaten on bread or waffles.
Kjøttkaker
Norwegian meatballs, typically made from ground beef and pork, mixed with spices and breadcrumbs, and served with brown sauce, potatoes, and lingonberry jam.
Laks
Salmon, prepared in a variety of ways, including gravlaks (cured with salt, sugar, and dill), røkelaks (smoked salmon), and poached or grilled salmon.
Svele
Sweet pancakes, similar to American pancakes but thicker and often served with butter, brown cheese, or jam.
Skillingsboller
Cinnamon buns flavored with cardamom, a popular treat in Oslo cafes.
Reindeer Stew (Finnbiff)
Thinly sliced reindeer meat, often seared and then simmered in a creamy sauce with mushrooms and juniper berries. Served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam.
Local Tips
When visiting Oslo, experiencing the local cuisine is a must. Here are some tips to make the most of your culinary adventure.
Explore Mathallen Oslo
Mathallen Oslo is a food hall with a wide variety of food stalls and restaurants, offering a great introduction to Norwegian and international cuisine.
Try a traditional restaurant
Seek out restaurants that specialize in traditional Norwegian dishes for an authentic experience.
Visit a fish market
Check out the local fish markets to see the fresh seafood available and perhaps sample some local delicacies.
Be adventurous with seafood
Don't be afraid to try unfamiliar seafood, such as cod tongues or roe.
Remember seasonality
Keep in mind that many dishes are seasonal, so availability may vary depending on the time of year.
Consider eating outdoors
Enjoy the stunning views of Oslo Fjord while dining at one of the many waterside restaurants, especially during the warmer months.
About Oslo
Oslo
Food History
Oslo's cuisine reflects Norway's history of resourcefulness and adaptation to a cold climate. Historically, preservation techniques like salting, drying, and fermentation were vital. Influences from neighboring countries, particularly Sweden and Denmark, are evident, as well as modern global culinary trends.
Food Culture
Food culture in Oslo emphasizes seasonality, sustainability, and sharing meals with loved ones. Meals are often social occasions, and Norwegians take pride in using local and high-quality ingredients.
Friday Tacos (Fredagstaco)
An incredibly popular tradition where families and friends enjoy tacos on Friday evenings. It is a relatively new tradition, but deeply ingrained in Norwegian culture.
Seasonal Celebrations
Many traditional dishes are associated with specific holidays and seasons, such as Lutefisk and Smalahove at Christmas, and Fårikål in the autumn.
Coffee Culture
Norway has a strong coffee culture, and Oslo is home to numerous specialty coffee shops.
Outdoor Grilling (Grilling)
During the summer months, grilling is a popular activity, often enjoyed in parks or gardens.
The importance of bread
Dark, whole-grain bread is a staple in the Norwegian diet. Often eaten with cheese, fish, or meat.