Updated 2019 – Michelin Star Restaurants in Oslo offer unforgettable journeys through the Nordic nature as well as classical gourmet.
I know Noma in Copenhagen is on countless bucket lists, but also Oslo has many great options for those that enjoy Michelin star culinary experiences. Hardcore gourmet fans might be tempted to try all Michelin star restaurants in Oslo during one visit – after all, you can count the restaurants on one hand.
Maaemo. Photo: VisitOslo/Anders Husa.
Maaemo – 3 Michelin Star restaurant in Oslo
Distinctively Nordic, Maaemo is Oslo’s only 3 Michelin star restaurant. Prepare for flavours, textures and combinations that push the limits of imagination. You’ll also experience familiar ingredients with a new Nordic twist. Langoustine with spruce butter? Yes please.
Contemporary architecture lover? The Nordic minimalistic interior has a luxurious feel to it thanks to dark tones. You’ll also enjoy the architectural eye candyjust outside the restaurant.
Fun fact: The name Maaemo is in fact Finnish (the language that is not related to Norwegian) and means Mother Earth.
Schweigaardsgt. 15b.
Statholdergaarden.
Statholdergaarden – Classic Michelin Star restaurant
Having trouble pronouncing that name? So do I, even after nearly 10 years in Oslo. Name aside, Stathodergaarden is without a doubt the best classical gourmet restaurant in Oslo. The interior is charming with details such as chandeliers and old plasterwork.
Housed in a building from 1640, the restaurant has an extensive wine list and focus on seasonal Norwegian ingredients, such as meat and seafood. The menu varies by season, but you’ll likely find a nice mix of classics and modern dishes, however I have always let the chef delight me with the menu of the day.
Kontrast – Modern Scandinavian Michelin star restaurant
Located a short ride from the city center, in the Vulkan area, Kontrast serves seasonal, local ingredients with a modern twist. The interior is the epitome of what I call Nordic Luxury, with mostly dark colours, raw brick walls and concrete floors. Wood and soft fabric upholstery soften the look.
Kontrast is moving the needle when it comes to the texture and coupling of ingredients: perhaps the most memorable dish I’ve had at Kontrast was bone marrow ice cream.
Fun fact: The restaurant has as rooftop garden where they grow the flowers that are used for decorating dishes.
“Nothing wrong with this restaurant” would be a funny thing to say in Norwegian. That’s because Galt translates as “wrong”. This restaurant, which falls under the category Modern European, surprised everyone in 2018 by gaining its first Michelin star under one year after opening.
Similarly to Kontrast, Galt has a very simplistic Nordic interior with rough brick walls, concrete floors and bare wooden tables – no white tablecloths or chandeliers.
The ingredients are sourced mostly from small producers in Norway, so an evening at Galt will be like a flavour journey through Norway.
Looking for the perfect restaurant for a romantic dinner in Oslo? Here are our top 5 choices.
When you’re planning a special evening or want to surprise someone (wink wink: Valentine’s Day is happening this year too), what would be better than a romantic dinner in a restaurant that has a special atmosphere. Maybe it’s sitting by a fireplace, the service that makes you feel special, or the surroundings. Oslo has something for every occasion and taste. Here are our recommendations for romantic restaurants in Oslo.
Statholdergaarden
Statholdergaarden – Classical gourmet in Oslo
The Michelin star restaurant is located in a 17th century building right in the heart of the city. You can even book a private dining room. There is a lot of local flavours on the classical menu, and the wine list is impressive. The chandeliers and the outstanding service are just some of the elements that create the perfect atmosphere for a special night out. One of the best restaurants in Oslo. Statholdergaarden holds a Michelin star Our tip: Make sure you book a table in advance. Statholdergaarden, Rådhusgate 11.
Restaurant Fjord
Fjord offers a great selection of fish and seafood and a nice selection of wines to wash it all down with. The interior is on the dark side, dominated by tones of blue – like the night sky in the winter before it gets really dark. A good choice if you want to experience a romantic atmosphere and local flavours. Restaurant Fjord, Kristian Augusts Gate 11
Let’s start with a small personal disclosure: This is where me and my significant other had our first date, so Cru will always have a special place in my heart. But it’s not just me: the place comes highly recommended by many food connoisseurs in Oslo. It has also made its way to the Michelin guide. The wine list is guaranteed to satisfy even the most demanding guest, while the British-inspired menu (the manager is originally from the UK), rustic interior and knowledgeable team ensure that your evening is memorable. Highly recommended! Do also check out their wine bar which is downstairs. In addition to wine, they also have a seasonal 3-course menu. Cru, Industrigata 51.
Eik Annen Etage
Located in the same building as the Continental hotel, the restaurant Annen Stage is decorated in dark colours such as black, red and gold for a feeling of contemporary luxury. The menu has focus on Nordic ingredients, such as seasonal root vegetables, fish and meat. The wine list will also please even the connoisseurs, and among other things includes a wide selection of top champagnes. Great choice for that special night out. Eik Annen Etage, Stortingsgata 24.
Hos Thea – One of Oslo’s hidden gems
This is a charming little restaurant that you probably won’t come across by accident. Located in Skillebekk, a central residential area, the restaurant is equally popular among the locals and visitors. A touch of classical, old fashion charm and a menu boasting local flavours (especially seafood) with a a French twist are the ingredients for a memorable evening. The restaurant is fairly small, so do make sure you book your table well in advance. Hos Thea, Gabels gate 11.
A dinner or lunch at Aker Brygge is never a bad idea. We put together a list of 10 great restaurants to consider – something for every taste.
“So much food, so little time” fits perfectly with Aker Brygge: the wining & dining possibilities are fantastic, and whether you’re after fine dining or a super juicy gourmet burger, you’ll find it here. Here are our top picks for every occasion.
Restaurant Sjømagasinet is situated by the canal, with views towards the Astrup Fearnley Museum, designed by the Italian architect Renzo Piano.
1. Tjuvholmen Sjømagasin – Seafood
I’ve been to this restaurant on all types of occasions: an informal lunch with friends, a date night and a business dinner, and it really works for every occasion. The interior is light, simplistic and Nordic, and the big windows allow you to soak in the views and atmosphere of the Aker Brygge / Tjuvholmen area while you eat.
Situated just by the canal, Tjuvholmen Sjømagasin has a seasonal menu that offers many local, seasonal flavours (for example root vegetables in the winter) and ingredients in addition to a good selection of seafood. Try the Norwegian King Crab if you want to try a local alternative to lobster (which they also have on the menu, of course). Another local speciality is the shrimp, which often comes from Norway, and is peeled by hand (by you that is). There is also something for the meat lover and the vegetarian. The wine list is also very good. Ask for pairings with food, as the staff really know their wine.
If you prefer a young, hip restaurant with a rustic interior, you’ll love Delicatessen. It’s a a super popular, Spanish-inspired restaurant that offers small tapas dishes and a nice selection of wines. In addition to the regular menu, there is always a selection of seasonal flavours. Whether you’re a meat lover or a vegetarian, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.
Delicatessen is almost always crowded (read: booking an advance is highly recommended), and there is a reason for that: the dishes are perfect for sharing with your date, family or friends, and the atmosphere is perfect for meeting friends. Delicatessen has two other locations: Grünerløkka and Majorstuen.
Private room Le Cave, the wine cellar at Le Vin is the perfect place for private events.
3. Le Vin Wine & Food – The Hidden Gem with French Twist
While not literally in Aker Brygge, Le Vin, opened in late 2018, is worth an introduction. As the name suggests, this is the place for wine lovers. The food menu combines French and Norwegian flavours (mostly meat and fish) , and there is nice selection of bar snacks if you feel like just having a glass of wine and a small bite to eat. The charming restaurant has become a favourite among the locals after it opened in late 2018 and is on the small side – make sure you book a table in advance. They also have a wine cellar – Le Cave – for private groups up to 20 people, the perfect place for a celebration with a larger group or business associates.
Hot tip: Next door to Le Vin sits another hidden gem, Barotto, a small bar that is run by the team behind Le Vin. They serve good cocktails and have an impressive wine menu (also top champagnes) – the perfect place for pre-dinner or post-dinner cocktails.
Hanami terrace faces the canal and is a great place for sunset spotting on a summer evening.
4. Hanami – Modern Japanese Cuisine in Oslo
Hanami is a favourite among those that love Japanese food. The restaurant has two kitchens: one dedicated to sushi and another for warm fusion food. There is also a nice cocktail bar that has many cool Hanami signature drinks. The menu consists of a large variety of Japanese small dishes, various meat types from the grill and salads for those that prefer a lighter meal – in other words, something for everyone. If you love food that also looks beautiful (read: Instagram friendly), you’ll enjoy a visit to Hanami.
The restaurant is located just by the waterfront, and a dinner on the popular terrace on a warm summer evening is one to remember. It’s a popular restaurant throughout the year, so book your table in advance.
Ling Ling by Hakkasan is an architectural gem designed by the agency Alliance Arkitekter. Photo: Ling Ling Hakkasan.
5. Ling Ling by Hakkasan – Trendy Cantonese Food
If you’re into architecture, you’ll love dining at Ling Ling, “the naughty little sister” of the world-famous Hakkasan restaurants. The hip restaurant is located in a landmark building in Aker Brygge. It’s not just a place to see, but also a place to be seen: it’s known as the venue for many celebrity parties. Those who are familiar with Hakkasan, won’t be disappointed with Ling Ling. Ling Ling is a good choice for a special night out with someone special or friends: there is a DJ every night from Thursday to Saturday.
Hot tip: request for a table with a view over Aker Brygge or Akershus festning, because the views are that great. Read more about the restaurant building here.
Terrace at restaurant Lofoten offers great views towards the Aker Brygge Marina.
6. Lofoten Fish Restaurant Oslo – For seafood lovers
Lofoten fish restaurant in Aker Brygge, opened in 1992, specialises in seafood only, and does it really well – the restaurant is mentioned in the Michelin Guide. A particularly popular choice for business lunch or dinner, the restaurant has a minimalistic Nordic interior and the menu consists of a wide variety of seafood. Try their signature fish soup (starter) and fresh lobster from the tank for specialities, or order the shellfish platter (they request that you order this at least a day in advance) to taste a little bit of everything. We recommend meat lovers and vegetarians to consider other restaurants.
Book a table on the heated terrace for a great view towards the Aker Brygge promenade and for some people watching while you eat.
Lofoten Fiskerestaurant, Stranden 75, Oslo.
7. The Thief Foodbar
If you’re staying at The Thief, this is where you’ll have breakfast, but for lunch and in the evenings this restaurant turns into a modern food bar.
This is a great place if you are not up for fine dining, but want to enjoy a stylish environment and good service. During the day, there are many small dishes you can combine for a full meal, and in the evening the menu is a balanced combination of meat, seafood and vegetarian dishes.
Looking for the perfect place to dine on a warm summer evening? Try the rooftop bar at The Thief – it offers one of the best views over the Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen area.
The Thief Foodbar: Landgangen 1, 0252 Oslo (one floor up from the reception)
8. Louise – Norwegian flavours in a nautical atmosphere
Louise is a true classic and many locals remember this place from company dinners, but it’s a great restaurant for a lunch, a romantic evening or even a dinner with the family. The menu has something for everyone – including vegetarians – and has a lot of fresh local ingredients such as fish to choose from. Generous seafood platters are their signatures – pick one with lobster for that little extra.
Vingen is located in conjunction with the Astrup Fearnley Museum. Photo: Oslolux.com.
9. Vingen – The Astrup Fearnley Museum Cafe & Restaurant
Let’s face it: Vingen, especially the terrace, has one of the best views in the Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen area, although it’s rarely mentioned among places to visit.
The café and restaurant closes early (depending on the day, 6 pm or 7 pm), so it’s most suitable as a lunch place, and actually because of its location, the perfect place for a little break if you’re exploring the area or sightseeing in Oslo. The menu and drinks are partially inspired by the museum exhibitions, so expect signature drinks you won’t get anywhere else. In the summer time, the terrace is the perfect place for a lunch or a drink.
Hot tip: Sunsets on the Vingen terrace are lovely as you’ll have a good view over the Oslo fjord.
Wondering where to find the juiciest burgers in town? Try Burger Joint. It’s a small, rustic American style burger joint that relies much on local ingredients. Try one of their classics such as the Juicy Lucy, Bacon Supreme or Holy Smoke and their Fries Royale (black truffle mayo & parmesan) and wash it all down with a shake for a meal that will keep you going all day.
Hot tip: In the summer, grab your burger to go and enjoy it by the waterfront in Aker Brygge or Tjuvholmen.
OsloLux 