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 Heavy basement stuff |
Slemdalsvn. 7 Oslo 0369 Norway +47 22 85 6372 http://www.betong.as |
Betong is located in the basement of Chateau Neuf, a five-floor building owned by the students at Oslo University. The building itself is worth a tour, with all its hidden bars and concert areas(where Betong offers larger concerts and gigs). These give you the freedom to move around in the building and get a taste of everything that's going on. Betong, meaning concrete in Norwegian, is exactly what you get. Dark concrete walls, sparse lighting and a bit of that, "after-the-bomb" feel. They often stage high-quality DJs and bands, including some unknown, up-and-coming-ones. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Music and politics |
Pilestredet 30 Oslo 0164 Norway |
The Blitz building was occupied by left-wing youth in 1981, and is still a centre for alternative, left-wing activity in Oslo. Famous painter Edvard Munch lived in this building for a couple of years, and it is easily recognisable by the black-and-white mural of the Scream that covers the south wall. Today, most people have learned to accept Blitz's existence in the city. Blitz usually offers one or two concerts a week, covering everything that is considered part of the underground music movement. Try the waffles in the café, they are homemade, and the best you can get in the way of traditional Norwegian waffles anywhere. The café also serves vegetarian dishes at very reasonable prices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: haley m |
 Photo: Tuva Langfeldt |
 Photo: chelsea strate |
 Photo: Reetta Asikainen |
 Lively and international |
Møllergata 26 Oslo 0179 Norway +47 22 11 3308 http://www.cosmopolite.no |
By many considered to be the most exciting concert stage in Oslo. It is run by the North-African Miloud Guiderk, who has put his heart and soul into making a stage for ethnic, native and international artists, ranging from the Lapps in Northern Scandinavia to African, Asian and American music. All are certainly off the beaten track. But you will also find jazz, funk and folk music, tango and southern European inspirations. The best tip is to check the papers. The guests and the audience vary with the music being staged, but the atmosphere is always friendly and warm. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ketil Blom |
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Restobar cum club |
Grønland 10 Oslo 0188 Norway +46 22 17 1861 http://www.dattera.no |
Live music, good food and exotic cocktails...all add up to make an unforgettable evening at Dattera til Hagen. A unique three-in-one experience, arrangements can be made for private parties. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fredrik Mortensen |
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Two in One |
Grønland 10 Oslo 0188 Norway +47 22 17 1861 http://www.dattera.no |
A restaurant by day and a club by night. This joint has a lot ot offer from good food, cocktails to live music. Bookings can be made for private arrangements. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Friendly Irish |
Aker Brygge Stranden 53 Oslo 0250 Norway +47 22 83 7082 |
"Come and get it", is Dirty Nelly's motto. Located by the seaside at Aker Brygge, this Irish-inspired pub offers foamy ales, lots of whiskey and a good atmosphere. Major sports events are shown on big-screen TV. Food is not served at Dirty Nelly's. In the summer the opening hours are extended, and you can enjoy a drink outdoors and as well. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Unpretentious and heavy |
Dronningens gate 32 Oslo 0154 Norway +47 22 42 1427 |
Elm Street is living up to its image of a rock cafe. Most of the people who frequent the place wear black leather jackets and jeans, and very few bands will get played here if they even thought about such things as keyboards or synths. The interior is rather dark and the loudspeakers are massive. Many of the patrons belong to the music industry or the media, and large numbers of bands must have been inspired by this place. The prices are OK, and the food is quite simple, but good. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Rock and blues |
Grensen 1 Oslo 0159 Norway +47 2335 6379 |
Gamla is home to the Oslo Rockabilly Festival, and that very much sets the tone of the place. It is old, it is dark and it is full of life. If you want to escape urban trends and pretentious nightspots, Gamla is where you will find people just like yourself. It is located under the same roof as Stortorvets Gjæstgiveri, and apart from beer, the kitchen also serves lighter meals and dinner. There is usually live music on weekends and some weekdays, mainly roots, rock and blues. Most of the guests share an interest in rockabilly and blues. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Poprock, Hardrock and Metal |
Grensen 9 Oslo, NO Norway +47 22 42 37 44 http://www.garageoslo.no |
Garage is the among the best places to go and hear Norwegian rock music, from Rock 'n Roll to Heavy Metal. All the best Norwegian bands, including Turbonegro have played at Garage since it opened in 2003. Live gigs happen several times a week, but even on a regular night, the music in the bar area ensures that it is jammed packed. In addition to showcasing well-known bands Garage also has an open mic night on a Tuesday, which tends to pulls in a younger alternative crowd. The predominant drink is beer, but more unusual is the wide selection of Scottish and Irish whiskeys. -Rosie Collyer Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Classic jazz haunt |
C. J. Hambros plass 5 Oslo 0164 Norway +47 22 33 5405 http://www.herrnilsen.no/ |
There is one of these in every major city and happily also one in Oslo: a place that looks like jazz, feels like jazz, smells like jazz and definitely sounds like jazz. Herr Nilsen is a small and intimate jazz café with regular concerts on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Drinks are reasonably priced and the staff always friendly. Light snack food is available. This is the kind of place where you can sit back and relax. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Martin Stabenfeldt  |
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Small and rough |
Torggata 16 Oslo 0181 Norway +47 22 20 32 32 http://www.rockefeller.no/ |
Every city has its legendary spots, and the Zebra Pub in Oslo was one of them. Now in that space, John Dee is one of the most successful small music stages around. Located in the same building as its big brother, Rockefeller, John Dee is an intimate and warm venue. Check the papers for what is on; special events and concerts are scheduled throughout the year, even during the chilly winter months. Come early if you want a seat. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marï Rustan |
 Photo: Rasmus Olsen |
 Photo: Ed Verillo |
 Photo: Martin Ernstsen |
 Photo: kristinebj |
 Photo: Torstein |
 Photo: Flameboy |
 Inn with traditions |
Møllergata 15 Oslo 0179 Norway |
This old, working-class inn is more famous than its unremarkable appearance would suggest. This is mainly because it has a longer history than most places in Oslo, and because it has been the favorite watering hole of the youth of Norway's Labour Party. But it is also known as the restaurant that serves the cheapest Lutefisk (a traditional dish that looks like a cross between a fish and a jelly and has a, shall we say, distinctive taste) in the festive season. The bar is good, even if it is not cheap, and the building dating from 1820 has the cosy air of old pubs. There are also infrequent concerts, most often jazz and gypsy music. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Club Nights in Oslo |
Rosenkrantz gate 11b Oslo, Oslo 0159 Norway +47 2282 5022 http://www.kaarehansen.no/ |
There is a place where the beer flows like a river and music plays late into the night. Featuring live music and DJs, Kaare Hansen is a stylishly hip joint, but never forgets its mission of providing laid-back fun for all. With a diverse list of performers, Kaare Hansen attracts locals as well as visitors from around the globe. See their website for more information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Rock'n'Roll never dies |
Karl Johansgate 45 Oslo 0162 Norway |
Last Train on Karl Johan Street has a long tradition of housing musicians, especially those with a predilection for rock. It has been the starting-point for countless Norwegian chart-raiders and flops, and is still important for those who want to be seen with the right people. If you feel like taking a break from the ultra-trendy and fashionable parts of Oslo, Last Train is a useful hideout. The beer is inexpensive and staff and patrons alike are generally nice and welcoming. Even the bouncers have a nice reputation... Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marï Rustan |
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Airport on the east side |
Toftes gate 69 Oslo 0552 Norway +47 22 37 3970 |
Mir is the bar connected to the cultural center called Grünerløkka Lufthavn. They put on concerts (mostly techno, punk and underground), various kinds of workshops, and exhibitions. A small record company is based here, and several bands use the location for rehearsals. Mir is by many regarded as the heart of all this activity, with its rough, airport-like interior. They serve small dishes like bacon and eggs and different kinds of toasted sandwiches, coffee and tea, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Prices are low. In the evenings and at night the clientèle consists mainly of people in their twenties and thirties (many connected to the underground music movement), artists and students. Mir is well hidden. Look for a sign for Grünerløkka Lufthavn on Toftes gate, then turn right into the backyard. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: makedolisten |
 The biggest names in rock and pop |
Sonia Henies Plass 2 Oslo 0185 Norway +47 22 05 2900 http://www.oslospektrum.no |
Norway's largest indoor concert hall can seat an audience of up to 10,000 people. Ever since it was built in 1990, Oslo Spektrum has been used for rock and pop concerts, such as Bruce Springsteen, Elton John and Sting, big-time shows like Disney on Ice, political rallies, trade fairs and sports competitions. All the facilities are state of the art, as is the architecture of the building designed by Guttorm Guttormsgaard. The Champ Sports Bar is located in the main building. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paolo Tonon |
 Photo: Stian Grytøyr |
 Dining in the west end |
Solligate 2 Oslo 0254 Norway +47 23 13 1140 http://www.palacegrill.no |
This chic restaurant in the west end of town started out small but is now widely recognized as one of the best places in town. Don't let the word 'grill' confuse you, the atmosphere may be relaxed, but this is far from a fast-food restaurant. The menu is basically Norwegian, with some inspiration from the French cuisine. The menu varies constantly, depending on what is in season and features a variety of game, poultry, meat and fish dishes. The restaurant attracts a young and trendy clientèle who can enjoy a drink in the adjoining bar while waiting for one of the eight tables. Booking is not possible, but make sure you come early, otherwise you'll have no chance but to grab one of the highly-prized seats. Palace Grill is situated next to Palace Bar and Bollywood Dancing, both hip and trendy places frequented mainly by young people. An outdoor bar is open in the summer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Where something is always happening |
Torggaten 16 Oslo 0181 Norway +47 2220 3232 http://www.rockefeller.no/ |
Black is the color of choice here, and the walls were those of Oslo's city swimming pool in the 1930s. Rockefeller is the main concert venue for both local and famous bands that prefer a more intimate setting for gigs. With a capacity of 1,400 people, Rockefeller is also used for TV shows, rock cinema, literature evenings and various club nights. Even though it can accommodate more than 1,000 people, the atmosphere is still intimate because the place is split into several levels. Special events are held throughout the year here and at John Dee, its sister spot. Claim a cozy nightspot for a cold winter's night. Check out the newspaper Dagbladet for what is going on at the moment. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Casper Kongstein |
 Photo: Jose Sa |
 Photo: fishball |
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Celebrity-spotting |
Rosenkrantzgate 22 Oslo 0160 Norway +47 22 42 5262 http://www.smuget.no/ |
Smuget is one of the largest and most well rounded bar-discos in Oslo, with three stages, seven bars, a café-restaurant part and a disco. It is crowded every night, with long queues on weekends that can be avoided by becoming a member. The concerts are high in quality and cover everything from jazz and rock, blues, R&B, funk and soul to folksongs. The spectrum of artists ranges from young hopefuls to major stars like Guns 'n Roses or Stevie Wonder. Club music is played by diverse professional and well-known DJs. Smuget also serves food until 3am Mon-Sun, and even has its own restaurant, Darwin P, open until 11p M-Sa. This place even has its own free magazine, and is regularly used as a theatre stage. Smuget is also the number-one place for spotting Norwegian celebrities,; you are bound to run into at least a couple of famous or semi-famous people at any time. Mondays are "poor musicians' days", when musicians (and others) can buy cheap soup and bread to keep the cold winter out of their bodies. The minimum age is 23, and from there the guests are of all ages, with a majority in their thirties. The staff are very professional and service-minded. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Traditional 300-year-old eatery |
Grensen 1 Oslo 0159 Norway +47 23 35 6370 / +47 23 35 6360 http://www.stortorvets-gjestgi... |
The building is 17th century and the food is good, in old-fashioned Norwegian style. During Christmas season, you cannot miss the traditional lutefisk. The first floor has a section reserved for private parties. In the summer, dine outdoors in the enclosed patio. Live Dixieland jazz is played every Saturday from 1:30pm in the café on the ground floor, which serves simpler traditional meals, cakes and sandwiches. On the other side of the square is Oslo Cathedral, built around the same time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Students in the mood |
Karl Johansgate 45 Oslo 0162 Norway +47 22 42 5680 http://www.studenten-cafe.no/ |
Studenten is usually very crowded and lively, on weekdays as well as on weekends. The guests are, as the name implies, mainly young students and other people under thirty, who meet for a drink or a night on the town. The ground floor is dominated by a huge wooden bar, which offers a variety of beverages. In the daytime, the basement is used as an internet café, but if you need to go on the internet, make sure you reserve enough time for it. The machines are very popular, and quite cheap to use (NOK35 per hour). In the night-time they usually have talented pianists who play famous cover songs. Studenten is mainly for students, but the prices are not (NOK48 for 0.4l of beer). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tine Wendel |
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Latin rhythms |
Torget 11 Oslo 0181 Norway |
Every Tuesday, Norwegian and international musicians meet for one of the most exciting jam sessions Oslo can offer. The warm green and orange colors in here take your mind away from the capital of Norway to cities miles further south, where salsa, Latin rhythms and the North-African raï dance all become natural. The guests at Cafe Sør or Club Sør as it is called on weekends, come from all corners of the world, together creating a unique atmosphere. During the day Cafe Sør offers coffee, tea and cakes; at night it changes into more of a drinking place. The bouncers have a reputation for being strict but fair. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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See Arnie |
Waldemar Thranes gate 70 Oslo 0173 Norway +47 22 37 4633 |
Scientists have studied Tranen for years. It was established as a pub for industrial workers dying for a beer after work, and has stayed that way right into the twenty-first century. Every Saturday you are bound to meet at least one bachelor party on the premises, due to the living legend Arnie "Skiffle Joe" Norse. Now in his seventies, this character still rides his one-wheeled bike, plays guitar and sings his own folk songs, with lyrics best not translated. Watch out for the female drummer, she is Arnie's wife. When Arnie is not on, the music ranges from rock'n'roll to country, the beer is cheap, and the atmosphere has to be experienced. Review © 2007, Wcities |