Oslo might be famous for its fjords and sleek design, but we found just as much joy in its food scene. Tucked between the minimalist architecture and icy harbours are cosy cafés, bustling food halls, and restaurants that put a modern twist on Norwegian comfort food. We spent our days eating our way through the city — warming up with cinnamon buns, sampling local seafood, and stumbling across a few gems we’ll never forget.
In this Oslo food guide, we’re sharing the best places to eat in Oslo — the spots that truly made our trip unforgettable.
Helt Vilt (Completely Wild), Mathallen
Helt Vilt lives within Mathallen Vulkan – a food hall situated in the trendy area of Grünerløkka. The food hall itself offers multiple different types of cuisine, however we chose to dine at Helt Vilt for a traditional Norwegian experience. Here, you can find elk, deer, reindeer, wild boar and Fårikål. It’s the perfect place to indulge in a traditional cosy meal, where the décor is the kind of rustic, wood-and-candlelit décor that feels straight out of a Norwegian cabin. As always in Oslo, it is on the expensive side, but the food is worth it.
Fishmasters, Grünerløkka
A short walk from our AirBnB, dining at Fishmasters Grill was a local recommendation, and it did not disappoint! With a limited menu, their speciality is Mediterranean great quality simple fish dishes. All food is cooked fresh, and it’s not super busy during peak times. Not what we expected one of our favourite meals to be in Oslo, but we are so glad we found this place. If you are in the area, you must visit.
Rorbua Aker Brygge, Fjord waterfront
Our walking tour guide (see post to find out more) recommended this restaurant to us in search of traditional Norwegian food, whilst avoiding any tourist traps. Although situated in the city centre, Rorbua definitely provides a very cosy, welcoming atmosphere. They serve up very generous portions, we tried the fish soup and reindeer. Perfect for a lunch stop during your sightseeing.
Fiskeriet Youngstorget, City Centre
A little more upmarket than your average spot, but absolutely worth it for the quality. This cosy restaurant and fish bar serves some of the freshest seafood in Oslo, from fish and chips (Norwegian style) to perfect fish tartar. Prices are on the higher side, but the flavours and presentation more than make up for it. It’s a popular place with both locals and visitors, so we’d recommend booking ahead — it gets busy fast.
Syverkiosken, Alexander Kiellands plass
Legendary and the last of it’s kind, Syverkiosken serves up sausages in a traditional flatbread, lompe, from a road-side wooden kiosk full of quirky character. There are a range of toppings and types of sausage to choose from, it’s perfect for a quick (and cheap) lunch bite. How long this kiosk has existed – nobody knows! However, it is very clear that it is a family kitchen, where everyone is welcome, and truly represents Oslo’s food scene.
Ostebutikken, Grünerløkka
A tiny French-inspired bistro with serious charm, complete with checkered tablecloths and a cosy vibe. The menu is small but outstanding, with beautifully prepared dishes and a well-curated wine list. It feels like a slice of Paris in the heart of Oslo — perfect for a relaxed, memorable evening. It feels intimate and authentic, serving up the best Beef bourguignon we’ve ever had. You heard it here first!
Café Grensen, Grensen Rd
Tucked away down a warm, inviting alley, this spot feels like a hidden gem in the middle of Oslo. The focus here is on delicious small plates, each one beautifully made and full of flavour. It’s the kind of place you stumble across by chance and instantly want to tell everyone about — cosy, memorable, and well worth seeking out. Perfect for a little lunch / coffee stop, you must pay particular attention to the Sardines – wow.
SALT, Fjord waterfront
SALT is a cultural village located right on the Fjord, where you can visit the sauna, go for food or attend a music event. It offers cosy outdoor campfires and plenty of food vendors to choose from. By day or night, SALT is a trendy, relaxed place to visit for any occasion. We were gutted we didn’t explore this place sooner, as we would recommend visiting in the evening for chill, cosy vibes. We stopped for coffee in Naustet Boathouse before our boat trip – check out our Oslo post to find out more!
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