Oslo might be known for its stunning fjords and Nordic charm, but its food scene is seriously underrated.
This city is packed with innovative eateries that blend traditional Norwegian flavors with global influences, creating dishes that’ll make your taste buds sing.
From cozy cafés serving up the fluffiest cinnamon buns to high-end spots reinventing Nordic cuisine, we’ve scoured the city to find the absolute best restaurants in Oslo.
Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, hearty comfort food, or plant-based perfection, this guide has you covered. Get ready to eat your way through Oslo like a local!
1. Maaemo – Where Nordic Cuisine Gets a Michelin Star
If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience, Maaemo is the place to be.
This three-Michelin-starred restaurant takes Norwegian ingredients and turns them into edible works of art. Think reindeer tartare, cloudberries, and foraged herbs—all plated like a Scandinavian fairy tale.
Their tasting menu is a journey through Norway’s landscapes, with dishes that change with the seasons. Even the homemade sourdough bread is so good, you’ll want to smuggle a loaf home.
Vegans, don’t fret—they offer a fully plant-based tasting menu that’s just as mind-blowing.
Pro tip: Book months in advance—this place is that popular.
2. Fru Hagen – The Coolest Brunch Spot in Town
Brunch lovers, rejoice—Fru Hagen is Oslo’s go-to spot for lazy weekend mornings.
This hip, plant-forward café serves up avocado toast, fluffy pancakes, and Norwegian-style eggs Benedict that’ll make you question why you ever settled for sad hotel breakfasts.
Their vegan shakshuka is a game-changer, packed with smoky spices and creamy cashew cheese. And the cardamom buns? Pure Scandi comfort food at its finest.
The vibe is laid-back and artsy, with mismatched furniture and local art on the walls. Perfect for lingering over coffee and pretending you live here.
3. Illegal Burger – Oslo’s Juiciest Burgers
Sometimes, you just need a big, messy burger—and Illegal Burger delivers. These aren’t your average fast-food patties; we’re talking grass-fed beef, house-made sauces, and buns so soft, they practically melt in your mouth.
The “Outlaw” burger (with bacon, cheddar, and caramelized onions) is a meat lover’s dream, while the vegan “Green Rebel” (with a crispy chickpea patty) holds its own.
Don’t skip the truffle fries—they’re crispy, salty, and totally addictive.
4. Villa Paradiso – Oslo’s Best Pizza (Yes, Really!)
You might not expect next-level pizza in Norway, but Villa Paradiso will prove you wrong. This Neapolitan-style pizzeria uses imported Italian flour and wood-fired ovens to create pies with the perfect chewy, blistered crust.
The “Vesuvio” (spicy salami and honey) is a sweet-and-savory masterpiece, while the vegan “Marinara” lets the tomato sauce shine.
The cozy, candlelit vibe makes it ideal for date night or a carb-loaded solo feast.
5. Kverneriet – A Hidden Gem for Seafood Lovers
Their fish and chips are crispy on the outside, flaky on the inside—just how they should be.
The rustic, maritime decor makes you feel like you’re dining in a cozy fisherman’s hut.
6. Nordvegan – Plant-Based Perfection
Even meat lovers will be impressed by Nordvegan, Oslo’s top spot for vegan comfort food.
Their “Nordic Bowl” (with roasted root veggies, lentils, and tahini) is hearty and flavorful, while the vegan “fish” and chips (made with banana blossom) is shockingly convincing.
The chocolate avocado mousse is so rich, you won’t believe it’s dairy-free.
A must-visit for anyone curious about Nordic plant-based cuisine.
7. Døgnvill Burger – For When You Need a Cheat Day
Another burger joint worth obsessing over, Døgnvill Burger serves gourmet patties with creative toppings like blue cheese, crispy onions, and lingonberry mayo.
The “El Diablo” (with jalapeños and chipotle sauce) brings the heat, while the vegan “Green Monster” (with a quinoa-beet patty) is surprisingly satisfying.
Wash it down with a thick vanilla milkshake—because why not?
8. Stock – A Cozy Spot for Norwegian Classics
For traditional Norwegian dishes with a modern twist, Stock is a local favorite. Their lamb stew is fall-apart tender, and the potato dumplings are pure comfort food.
Vegetarians will love the roasted cauliflower with brown butter—simple but insanely delicious.
The warm, cabin-like interior makes it perfect for chilly Oslo evenings.
9. Sabi Omakase – Sushi That’ll Blow Your Mind
Oslo’s best sushi is hiding at Sabi Omakase, a tiny chef’s counter where every piece is crafted with precision and care.
The salmon nigiri (with locally sourced fish) is buttery perfection, and the vegetable tempura roll is light and crispy.
A splurge-worthy experience for sushi purists.
10. Café Cathedral – The Ultimate Fika Spot
No trip to Oslo is complete without fika (the Swedish/Norwegian coffee break ritual), and Café Cathedral does it best.
Their cinnamon buns are sticky, sweet, and irresistible, while the cardamom latte is pure Scandi hygge.
The sunny outdoor seating is perfect for people-watching on a lazy afternoon.
11. Arakataka – Where Nordic Innovation Meets Comfort Food
If you want to taste Norway’s culinary future, Arakataka is where it’s happening.
This sleek, modern bistro takes traditional Nordic ingredients and spins them into something unexpected yet familiar—like your grandma’s cooking if she trained at a Michelin-starred kitchen.
Their lamb shoulder with fermented cabbage will make you rethink everything you know about comfort food, while the roasted celeriac steak proves vegetables can be the star of the show.
The open kitchen lets you watch chefs work their magic, and the minimalist Scandinavian decor makes you feel like you’re dining in a Nordic design magazine.
Final Bite
Oslo’s food scene is full of surprises, from Michelin-starred magic to cozy cafés that feel like home. Whether you’re here for Nordic fine dining or a killer burger, this list has you covered.
So grab your stretchy pants and start exploring—your taste buds will thank you!
Got another favorite Oslo restaurant? Drop it in the comments and help a fellow foodie out!