Where to Eat in Oslo Norway

I’ve been fortunate enough to travel to Norway numerous times because my grandmother was born there and all the family on my mother’s side still calls it home. Our family is from a small town 45 minutes from Stavanger (in southern Norway) called Vikesa.  Because most of our visits are to see family in Stavanger I have surprisingly only been to other parts of Norway a few times. Besides Stavanger I’ve been to Bergen, Oslo, Kristiansand, & Mandal (Southern Coast of the Ocean).  I found Oslo to be a very typical European city with a lot of character and charm.  It’s a very small walkable city with amazing sites to see, museum’s to visit and very typical Norwegian culture to experience. If you’re wondering, Where To Eat In Oslo Norway read below for a few of my favorite spots!

Julius Fritzer – This came recommended not only by our Hotel Concierge but also  in various travel guide’s and magazines as one of the best fine dining restaurants in Norway. I had visited the restaurant prior to our dinner and met the chef Chef Patrick O’Toole who I learned was an American (and fellow Midwesterner from Minnesota). I also met Daniele one of the server’s who along with Chef Patrick O’Toole were gracious hosts showing me around and inviting me back for dinner. The meal was fabulous! My Mom and I experienced the 3-course tasting menu which was divine. For dessert we split a Lemon Sorbet and a Chocolate Fondant (The Fondant was hands down one of the best I’ve EVER had).  Everything from the elegant restaurant’s interior, to the attentive personable service, to the food was superb. I highly recommend you experience Julius Fritzer.  It’s a magnificent dining experience as well as a gorgeous sight to see in one of the most historic grand hotel’s in Oslo. Karl Johans gate 31, 0159 Oslo, Norway.

The J.S.F. & Chef Patrick O’Toole

 The to die for Chocolate Molten Cake

My Mom and The J.S.F.

Dinner Bar & Restaurant  – This came recommended by my cousin Ase. It was an Asian restaurant with a great location across the park from the Grand Hotel Oslo. The food was delicious, very flavorful and authentic (this coming from a former New Yorker who’s used to very authentic Asian food). I’d recommend this to anyone coming to Oslo, especially if you want a break from the typical Norwegian fare you’ll be experiencing (which is delicious but can be a bit heavy).  Be sure to make a reservation as the restaurant was full with a line out the door.  Stortingsgata 22. 0160 Oslo, Norway. 23 10 04 66. 

Yaya’s Thai Beach Bungalow Restaurant Vika – This was a charming restaurant our local Tour Guide Trygve took us to for our first night in Oslo. It was a fun Thai restaurant that was reasonably priced (reasonably priced in Norway means $25-$30 entrees).  If you want something fun with authentic Thai food and a good location near nightlife this is a perfect spot. Munkedamsveien 53B  0250 Oslo, Norway. 22 83 71 10.

Eataly Ristorante – Whether it’s Saturday afternoon or Thursday evening this spot had a great scene. I went for a late lunch with my Mom and we loved taking in the water views  as well as watching all the people strolling around the newer Aker Drugge area (along the water) bouncing between bars, shops, and restaurants. We shared a pizza and salad both which we were impressed with  and of course some Vino for our leisurely lunch. I’d recommend this for good Italian, great views and a fun scene. For any New Yorker’s wondering if Eataly is affiliated with Mario Batali’s Eataly in NYC it is not. Bryggetorget 18. 0250 Oslo, Norway. 22 83 13 00.

Eataly’s Patio Dining

Grand Cafe (at The Grand Hotel Oslo) – Another great restaurant inside the Grand Hotel Oslo. As a guest at the hotel I was lucky enough to enjoy brunch here during our stay. It also serves lunch and dinner, and is popular for outdoor dining with wonderful park views. My favorite part of brunch was the assorted fresh juices served mini soup/shot glass style. Karl Johans gate 31, 0159 Oslo, Norway.

The delicious assorted fresh juices at the Breakfast Buffet

The Palmen Restaurant (at The Grand Hotel Oslo) – If you’re looking for a light snack, tea, and/or sandwiches this is the spot for you. It’s off the hotel lobby with great light and beautifully decorated furniture. It would also be a great spot for a coffee or a quiet area to work. Karl Johans gate 31, 0159 Oslo, Norway.