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 Elegant restaurant with French ambience |
Øvre Slottsgate 16 Oslo 0157 Norway +47 23 10 0165 |
Downstairs from D'Artagnan, Freddie Nielsen's clean-cut, inviting bistro looks as if it had been taken straight out of Paris. The Art Nouveau décor and old French posters contribute to an authentic and elegant atmosphere. The French ambience is further emphasised by the waiters' long, white aprons. The tempting menu offers high-quality dishes. Do not leave without trying the hot bouillabaisse! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Vibrant seafront scene |
Stranden Aker Brygge Oslo 0250 Norway +47 22 83 2680 http://www.akerbrygge.no |
The old workshops belonging to Akers Mekaniske Verksted on the seafront beneath the town hall have been converted into what is, especially in the summer, one of Oslo's most popular shopping and nightlife areas. There are places to eat and shop, art galleries, theatres, an IMAX and a regular cinema. A walk along the waterfront is a great way to spend a fine summer afternoon. Take trams 10 or 15 or walk from Akershus fortress past a children's play area and numerous ice-cream stalls. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A small piece of Holland |
Universitetsgt. 11 Oslo 0164 Norway +47 22 11 4801 |
This must be the best place in town to order a Heineken. Amsterdam is a working-class, Continental café, decorated in a Dutch style with dark oak furniture, Art Deco lamps, a high, yellow ceiling and walls hung with Dutch pictures. It is very busy during the week and absolutely packed on weekends. The bar serves traditional Dutch dishes and Continental food, but only light meals. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Artists' hangout and delicious food |
Wergelandsveien 17 Oslo 0167 Norway +47 22 69 4422 |
This café and restaurant is located inside the House of Artists (Kunstnernes Hus), next to the grounds of the Royal Palace. Consequently, its patrons are mainly artists or people with connections to the cultural life of Oslo. The atmosphere is free and informal, and it is a great place to talk because of the total absence of background music. There are changing art exhibitions in the same building. The walls are naturally decorated with works of art, but in a very discreet way. First and foremost, it strikes you as a big, open room with white walls. Quite relaxing, actually. The menu changes daily, and the fare is usually Norwegian, French and Italian. There is a good selection of wines and a separate café. In the summer, food is also served on a lovely terrace with great views over the Royal Park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bente Jensen |
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Homely feeling in rustic surroundings |
Rådhuspassasjen Roald Amundsens gate 6 Oslo 0160 Norway +47 22 41 6464 http://www.babettes.no |
This very popular and good restaurant is a great option for a night out. The chef and his staff make their guests feel very welcome on the tiny premises, hidden away in a shopping arcade by the Town Hall. A fine menu is on offer together with pleasant service; three, four, five and six-course meals are offered at prices from NOK425 to NOK690. This is a charming place with a rustic, homely feel to it. The food is Scandinavian with a French twist. Dishes vary according to season, but are always well-prepared. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Exclusive restaurant with two Michelin stars |
Bygdøy Allé 3 Oslo 0257 Norway +47 22 12 1440 http://www.bagatelle.no |
With a two-star rating in the Guide Michelin, Bagatelle is one of Scandinavia's leading restaurants. The internationally renowned chef/owner Eyvind Hellstrøm's cuisine is modern Norwegian with French undertones, and will satisfy all your gastronomic needs. Three, five and seven-course menus are composed daily from the best available raw materials. You can request your own special menu if you order in advance. Bagatelle, only a short walk from the city centre, is reserved for those special occasions in life, or that important business dinner. Jacket and tie are required. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Central, next to Oslo Cathedral |
Dronningensgate 27 Oslo 0154 Norway +47 23 35 7060 http://www.baltazar.no/ |
At Baltazar you dine in the historical surroundings of the old Bazaar, directly behind Oslo Cathedral. The interior of this restaurant is simple, but the curved room and the subdued light create a sheltered atmosphere. The menu is international, with an emphasis on Italy and other Mediterranean countries. Seafood as well as meat dishes are served here. After your main course, do try the cheeses. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Excellent cocktails |
Thorvald Meyers gate 30 Oslo 0555 Norway +47 22 04 1080 |
This is probably one of Oslo's most intimate bars, with enough room only for five small tables. The atmosphere is warm, kept in a subtle 1950s style. Its main attraction is actually its owner, Jan Vardøen. He is one of Norway's few enthusiasts when it comes to mixing cocktails, and his skills have made him a minor celebrity. If you want the best in drinks, this is one of the places you should definitely visit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Henriette Kleivane |
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Gourmet brasserie by Akershus Fortress |
Akersgaten 2 Oslo 0158 Norway +47 22 42 6088 |
This gourmet brasserie, situated between the Town Hall and Akershus Fortress fortress, is a top-notch dining spot in Oslo. The explanation lies in the cuisine, in which seafood plays a major role, but which also contains a wide selection of meat dishes. Brasserie Hansken favours exciting flavour combinations created by people who know and love what they are doing. The interior is kept in typical Continental brasserie style. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A culinary work of art |
Sonja Henies vei 31 Oslo 1363 Norway +47 67 52 1020 http://www.bolgenogmoi.no |
Although situated in the Henie-Onstad cultural centre, this place is worth experiencing in its own right. The combination of fine art and excellent food is fantastic. The restaurant has been influenced by the contemporary art displayed elsewhere in the building: it is modern and stylish, but also contains a good dose of humour. The cuisine is exciting, creative and varied and the dishes are presented like works of art. The wine list is excellent and the waiters are keen to explain and advise you on your choice. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Artists' classic |
Parkveien 12 Oslo 0350 Norway +47 22 69 6904 http://www.lorry.no/ |
Traditionally a meeting place for artists, it has recently become popular with a mixed crowd of musicians, bohemians, actors and students. Lorry has close to 200 different beers, a good Norwegian menu and a buzzing atmosphere. There are comfy leather sofas and the art on the wall exude elegance. Lorry is located very close to the palace. Those wishing to combine culinary and artistic experiences will also find Kunstnernes Hus and Asur gallery nearby. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Summer retreat for everyone, including the kids |
Dronningensgt. 27 Oslo 0154 Norway +47 22 33 3430 |
This is one of Oslo's nicest outdoor cafés, located in gardens of Oslo Cathedral, surrounded by the beautiful old Bazaars. Large chestnut trees hang above the gardens that once formed the old churchyard, and the tables crowd around the lovely fountain. Old carousel toys and swings on the lawn make this an excellent place for children. Cappuccino is Café Bacchus's summer alternative, and the menu is quite similar; light warm meals and great salads, as well as delicious homemade cakes. Cappuccino is only open in the summer, weather permitting. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Very popular in the summer |
Rådhusgaten 19 Oslo 0158 Norway +47 22 42 4539 |
In the middle of the Old Town, or Kvadraturen, with its plethora of restaurants, museums and galleries, you will also find Celsius. The kitchen is situated right behind the bar, so you can observe the chef at work. The menu offers light food such as sandwiches, various pasta meals and Mediterranean dishes. The food is served with homemade bread. The historic premises are filled with a warm atmosphere, partly due to the big, old-fashioned fireplace. In the summer the vastly popular outdoor area is also open (and usually very crowded). Celsius is fully licensed. From 1 May the restaurant opens on Mondays as well and summer opening hours apply. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Successful Italian with homemade food |
Keysersgate 4 Oslo 0165 Norway +47 22 20 8207 http://www.ciaociao.no/ |
A visit to Ciao Ciao can easily make you feel as if you were dining with the Lady and the Tramp in that backyard in Rome. It is simple and rustic, but delightful, and Ciao Ciao has become a huge success due to the fact that it is very good value for money. They offer delicious homemade antipasti and pasta, and the service is exceptionally good - not to mention that one of the owners is a talented troubadour! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Nice and different |
Kirkeveien 51 Oslo 0368 Norway +47 22 69 0522 |
As the name suggests, this is an untraditional and fun place to eat. Indian food with a special twist has made this place very popular. The place is decorated like an old-fashioned, chequered grocery store. Giant bags of rice and spices adorn the room and give you a hint as to what the food contains. The guests are mostly young people who live in the west end. The specialty: chicken dishes with various tasty sauces. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Exclusive restaurant with a view |
Holmenkollen Park Hotel Rica Kongeveien 26 Oslo 0787 Norway +47 22 92 2734 http://www.holmenkollenparkhot... |
Near the famous Holmenkollen ski jump, you will find this exclusive and very Norwegian restaurant with an amazing view over Oslo. The service is distinguished and the menu offers Norwegian dishes with strong, classic roots. The three-course meal "A Taste of Norway" is well-worth trying. Lunch is served between midday and 2:15p. Jacket and tie are required for admission. This is an expensive place. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 The ultimate Chinese |
Stortingsgaten 22 Oslo 0161 Norway +47 23 10 0466 http://www.dinner.no |
This really is the place to go for high-quality Chinese food in Oslo. The intense-blue restaurant is always crowded; this unpretentious place attracts people of all kinds. Dinner is most of all known for its Szechuan dishes, but you will also find Cantonese food here. You can have Peking Duck made for you according to the original recipe (costing NOK1,245 for four people), but it must be ordered one day in advance. If anything is of an even higher quality than the food - exquisite both to look at and to eat - it has to be the service, which is efficient yet friendly. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Travis Emmel |
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Over 140 years of tradition |
Bankplassen 1 Oslo 0151 Norway +47 22 82 2525 http://www.engebretcafe.no |
This low corner building dates from the 1700s, and the restaurant has been in business for more than 140 years. Situated right across the street from the Museum of Contemporary Art, it is within walking distance of the medieval Akershus fortress. Offering traditional Norwegian food, the emphasis of the menu is on Fish, but in the autumn there is always game. Coming here to eat the fantastic Lutefisk of the Christmas season is a tradition in Oslo. In the summer guests can enjoy the beautiful outdoor dining area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Karen Duda |
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Modern and lively |
Karl Johansgt. 33 Oslo 0162 Norway +47 22 33 4079 |
This modern-looking café-bar on two floors has become one of Oslo's most popular venues. People come here to see and be seen. The clientele is young and loud, giving the bar a charming liveliness and a fast pace. During the daytime, the bar serves light, exotic courses and some bigger meals, but most visitors come to enjoy an alcoholic drink or to choose from the wide variety of teas and coffees available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A classic gourmet experience |
Balchens gate 5 Oslo 0265 Norway +47 22 12 9380 http://www.feinschmecker.no |
Feinschmecker belongs to Oslo's gastronomic élite and is a firm favourite with gourmets. The elegance and intimate atmosphere perfectly match the high standard of the food. Owners Lars Erik Underthun, one of Oslo's foremost chefs, and Bengt Wilson, one of Scandinavia's leading food photographers, make sure the food looks as good as it tastes. Give in to temptation and go on a gastronomic journey around their homepage before you visit the restaurant. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Norway's most popular tourist attraction |
Kirkeveien Oslo 0268 Norway +47 22 54 2530 http://www.vigeland.museum.no |
Within Frognerparken is Vigeland Park, Norway's most popular tourist attraction famous for 200 sculptures by Norwegian sculptor, Gustav Vigeland. During the summer, the park's outdoor cafés and restaurants are always packed. Other areas are full of joggers, skaters and walkers. There is a playground and children are allowed to climb on the sculptures. Frognerbadet outdoor pool is located next to the park. The park is open around the clock all year round; admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Zach Slootsky http://zach.slootsky.org |
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![Frogner Park photo by [charlie cravero]](pictures/86036_6.jpg) Photo: [charlie cravero] |
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 In the leafy outskirts |
Holmenkollveien 200 Oslo 0391 Norway +47 22 92 4040 |
Only 15 minutes from the city center, Frognerseteren is frequented by nature lovers before or after a hike in the surrounding woods. The underground runs almost all the way up to this café-restaurant where guests can sample traditional Norwegian food and enjoy a panoramic view of the Oslo fjord. The restaurant offers three, four and five-course meals. Various kinds of entertainment are organized from time to time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Oslo's best sushi restaurant? |
Munkedamsveien 100 Oslo 0270 Norway +47 22 43 1180 |
Fuji's speciality is sushi, which should be enjoyed in the designated sushi bar on the second floor. The food served by the kimono-clad staff is delicious, and the exciting Japanese desserts are worth trying. The atmosphere and the elegant, minimalist interior make this a great place for enjoying Japanese food. Fuji also offers very popular take-away deals. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Legend on Karl Johan |
Karl Johans gate 31 Oslo 0159 Norway |
The café at Grand Hotel was a favourite of Norwegian painter Edvard Munch and playwright Henrik Ibsen (he still has his own table). Even if absinthe-drinking anarchists and crazy artists no longer frequent it, Grand is still an important meeting place and serves a fantastic prawn sandwich. You will find Norway's largest sandwich, pastry and salad buffet here, and the à la carte menu offers a wide selection of excellent dishes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Filip Van Laenen |
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Norway's largest collection of modern international art |
Sonja Heniesvei 31 Oslo 1311 Norway +47 67 80 4900 http://www.hok.no |
This art centre was established when famous Norwegian figure-skating star Sonja Henie and her husband Niels Onstad donated their private art collection to it. Located in impressive surroundings only 30 minutes from Oslo, with a sculpture park and its own little beach, the museum invites you to view temporary exhibitions of modern art, partly based on its own collections. The museum shop has a great selection of objects, and the award-winning restaurant is definitely worth a visit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: astrid westvang |
 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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Shopping and sightseeing |
Karl Johans Gate between Drammensveien and Nedre Slottsgate Oslo 0155 Norway |
This is Oslo's main street, a pedestrian area leading from the central station to the palace. Visitors can watch the world go by at one of the street's numerous watering holes or simply follow the crowds down the road, past street vendors and entertainers, past the parliament, national theatre, Grand Hotel and the university. With hundreds of different shops, the street is also a Mecca for shopaholics. The park between the parliament and national theatre is turned into an ice-rink in the winter. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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One of Oslo's most elegant restaurants |
President Harbitz' gate 4 Oslo 0259 Norway +47 22 54 3400 http://www.lecanard.no |
Undoubtedly one of Oslo's most elegant restaurants, this exclusive place in Frogner is decorated with antiques, chandeliers and Baroque paintings. Le Canard is housed in a looming Gothic-style brick mansion with spires, built at the turn of the last century. Three, five and seven-course menus are offered at prices from NOK550 to 950. The house speciality is (of course) duck, and there is an extensive selection of wines to accompany your food; the wine cellar holds more than 2,000 bottles. All this can be enjoyed in one of the various salons, each of which has a different colour scheme. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Recently voted Oslo's best restaurant |
Frognerveien 12 B Oslo 0263 Norway +47 22 54 8980 http://www.mares.no/ |
At Mares the interior is clean and modern with light walls, big black-and-white photographs (signed Dag Thorenfeldt), chairs in turquoise, grey and green, and tables with crisp, white tablecloths. Still, the food is the important thing here. The menu is short but exciting, and both starters and main courses focus on fish and seafood. Try the amazingly fresh and exciting lobster and orange soup! Mares Brasserie was recently voted best restaurant in Oslo. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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High-quality food at Grünerløkka |
Torvbakkgata 12 Oslo 0550 Norway +47 22 37 2297 http://www.markveien.no |
Markveien Mat og Vinhus is one of the most exclusive restaurants in the Grünerløkka area. The menu offers high-quality food and a very good selection of wines in an informal and relaxed atmosphere. A special menu is created every day out of the best that the fishmongers and greengrocers can supply that day. Ask your waiter. You can grab a bite and have a glass of wine in the adjoining Dr. Kneipp's wine bar as well. The staff is professional and well-informed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Traditional Norwegian Food |
Tollbugata 24 (Nedre Slottsgate) Oslo 0157 Norway +47 22 83 7228 http://www.mauds.no |
The traditional Norwegian dishes served here are so regional that they seem exotic not only to tourists but also to some Norwegian city folk. Specialities include potato dumplings and a myriad kinds of fish. Meat dishes served with nothing less than perfectly boiled potatoes. This really is the place for those who want to discover the real, traditional Norwegian cuisine. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Delicious and cheap |
Thorvald Meyers gate 36 Oslo 0555 Norway +47 22 37 1609 http://www.muchomas.no |
This is a small, stylish Mexican restaurant with a white, yellow and black interior. All kinds of people come here, celebrities as well as good old east enders who want a great, cheap meal, or perhaps just a few beers. A few years ago this was voted Oslo's best hangout, because it is so much more than just a restaurant. People often stand at the bar and wait half an hour for a free table. In such a narrow, crowded and hectic place you don't do that unless the food and atmosphere make it worthwhile: and they do here. The food is traditional Californian-Mexican and all dishes come with vegetarian versions. You can choose from well-known dishes such as burritos, tacos, quesadillas and chilli con carne to name but a few. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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All railway connections and tourist info |
Jernbanetorget 1 Oslo 0154 Norway +47 23 15 0000 http://www.nsb.no |
If you are coming via the Flytoget express from Gardermoen Airport, this will be your entrance into the city. The main railway station by Jernbanetorget square, at the eastern end of Karl Johan street, also provides tourist information, from Monday to Saturday 8am to 5pm. The OsloCard is on sale here, and they can assist with hotel reservations and currency exchange. The station is of course the centre for the main domestic (local and Intercity) and international railway connections, as well as the terminus for the Airport train to Gardermoen. The adjacent shopping centre, Byporten, can be accessed directly from the main gallery. On the southern side you will find Østbanehallen, the old part of the station that has now been converted into a small shopping arcade. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kiran Kamtekar |
 Photo: Keiki Ichikawa |
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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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Popular chain of pizzerias |
Drammensveien 40 Oslo 0202 Norway +47 22 55 5847 / +47 22 22 5555 http://www.peppes.no/ |
This pizzeria chain has many branches all over the city, and the concept is the same everywhere. It is successful because the restaurants are cozy and homely and because everyone is able to find food that they like. With fishing nets hanging from the ceiling, old Coke posters on the walls and lit candles, the place is relaxing and neutral, but very nice and cosy. It is very family-friendly. Naturally, you get to choose from many different pizzas, but also a few salads, pies and tortillas. Vegetarians can also find things they should like. The food is easy to like, and you will soon find out why it is such a popular place. Their take-away service is equally popular. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Stylish and tastefully furnished |
Universitetsgaten 11 Oslo 0164 Norway +47 23 35 4200 |
This hotel, which dates from 1916, is next-door to the Nasjonalgalleriet and the Historisk Museum and is just two blocks away from Karl Johans Gate. It is tastefully furnished in a classic style. The Savoy Bar is popular with a young, fashionable crowd and is known for its personable service and tasty cocktails. Nearby Amsterdam is a good place to grab a bite to eat and read the international press. Breakfast and lunch are served in Hadelandstuene. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: tonje vangberg |
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Feel at home |
Stortorvet 10 Oslo 0155 Norway +47 22 41 4409 |
Sikamikanico is among the most relaxed dance clubs, with soft, homely, deep chairs and assorted second-hand furniture. But it is one of the most active club scenes in all of Oslo, with club nights that change daily, more often than not with very good DJs playing house/club/techno. The clientele is young and hip, but not as fixated on looks as is often the case, and more laissez-faire. There is a dance floor, at its best on weekends. In addition to this there is a coffee bar in the daytime. The minimum age is 24 and prices are maybe a little below average. Entrance is from Møllergata, not Stortorvet, despite the address. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Royal residence |
Drammensveien 1 Oslo 0010 Norway +47 22 04 8700 http://www.kongehuset.no |
Slottsbakken, the hill on top of which the palace is built, offers a magnificent view over Karl Johans Gate. On Norwegian National Day (17 May), the King and the rest of the royal family stand on the balcony and wave at thousands of children parading down the street. Tours are arranged three times an hour between 17 June and 12 August. Please note that tickets must be purchased in advance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Katrina |
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 Photo: PDXdj |
 Photo: atcy |
 Photo: Laurent |
 Oslo's Catholic Cathedral |
Akersveien 12 Oslo 0177 Norway +47 22 98 2165 http://www.katolsk.no |
Of about 36,000 Catholics living in Norway, 60% have been born abroad, so there is a clear need for celebrating Catholic Mass in a variety of languages. This was Norway's first Catholic congregation to be formed since the Lutheran Reformation, and was established in Oslo in 1843. Their church, built by architect H.E. Schirmer in a Neo-Gothic style, was inaugurated in 1856. On that occasion, Queen Josephine presented the congregation with the altarpiece, a copy of Raphael's Sistine Madonna executed by Countess Sophie Adlersparre. In 1953, this parish church became the main church of the Catholic Diocese of Oslo. The church boasts a tabernacle in Italian marble, donated by Pope Pius in 1857, a bishop's throne used by Pope John Paul II on his visit in 1989, and the only existing relic of King Olav, the patron saint of Norway. The church was restored in 1975-76 by architects Thomas Thiis-Evensen and Sigurd Østberg; the new high altar and the pillars in the naves are made of Norwegian granite. The new organ has 20 stops and was produced by the J.H. Jørgensen Organ Factory in Oslo. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Award-winning chef |
Rådhusgaten 11 Oslo 0151 Norway +47 22 41 8800 http://www.statholdergaarden.no |
This restaurant, located in the heart of Oslo's oldest neighbourhood, is run by award-winning chef Bent Stiansen. He is one of Norway's best-known cooks and it is often hard to get a table here. The restaurant offers a varied menu compiled from the freshest and best available ingredients. The décor is beautiful and kept in a traditional 18th-century style. The restaurant consists of five small rooms with an intimate atmosphere. The ceilings contain some of the finest stucco work in northern Europe. Guests must be suitably dressed (jacket and tie for men). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Exciting dining place in popular Grünerløkka |
Thorvald Meyersgate 26 Oslo 0555 Norway +47 22 87 0467 |
The bar, Tørst (Thirst), was opened first. It became a huge success, and this was the reason why the owners wanted to expand. Unpretentious restaurant Sult (Hunger) came into being next door to the bar, in the popular area of Grünerløkka. There is not much space in this restaurant and it is not possible to make reservations, but you can pass the time with a mood-setting drink in the bar. The menu changes every day. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Back to the 1950s |
Brugata 3 Oslo 0186 Norway +47 22 17 7183 |
Teddys Softbar is as close as you can come to John Travolta, Olivia Newton-John, shiny hair and the golden days of nylon while on a day (or night) out in Oslo. Teddys opened about the same time as Elvis was getting ready for his military service, and has survived the changes of time with grace. The guests range from the curious student to musicians and people in the entertainment industry who all enjoy a blast from the past. Try the food - the kitchen serves simple, homemade Norwegian dishes, with no fashionable extras. Prices are average (NOK43 for 0.5l of beer), and the music (if any) is exactly what you would expect it to be. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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New Mediterranean dining spot |
Stortingsgaten 2 Oslo 0158 Norway +47 22 40 5520 |
Everything at Terra is earthy in colour, including the menu. The interior is inspired by the Mediterranean countries, especially France and Italy. The choice of food includes a variety of creative fish and meat dishes, a vegetarian dish and a choice of starters and desserts. Try out the tiramisu, which is known to transport your mind to more southern latitudes. Brown is the colour at Terra and the elegant interior complements the professional service. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Intimate but busy |
Bogstadveien 27 Oslo 0355 Norway +47 22 93 0480 |
The Broker is a nice, rather small café-bar in the middle of one of the busiest shopping streets in the west end, Bogstadveien. The Broker is usually busy itself from lunchtime until midnight. The guests are mainly young businesspeople and students, who all enjoy good service at average to high prices (NOK47 for 0.5 liters of beer). Be aware that the age limit rises to 23 at 6p and especially younger men will find it difficult to get in after this. The kitchen serves creatively garnished Norwegian dishes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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An oasis |
Bernt Ankers gate 17 Oslo 0183 Norway +47 22 11 1124 |
In spite of the name, this place is not for the trend nomad who changes his or her style every week. It is rather the opposite: one of those places where you find people who just try to be themselves. The atmosphere is exotic, but not in the "drinks with umbrellas and topless dancers" meaning of the word. This is called a place "somewhere in between the Sub Pub and a salsa dance course". The mood is almost sensual and very relaxed. If you want to meet travellers, hitch-hikers and backpackers you can start searching here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Oasis for culture vultures |
Stortingsgaten 24-26 Oslo 0161 Norway +47 22 82 4050 |
One of Oslo's most popular meeting places, Theatercaféen is a magnet for people involved in the worlds of culture and finance. This culinary institution, situated on the ground floor of Hotel Continental, is the place to see and be seen in Oslo. Built in 1900, the art nouveau, Viennese-style café is one of only a few such establishments left in northern Europe. Do not leave without trying pastry chef Robert Bruun's legendary Konfektkake and Chocolate Cake. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Agnes Dorotea |
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Minimalist and modernist |
Thorvald Meyersgate 26 Oslo 0555 Norway +47 22 87 0467 http://www.sult.no/torst/index... |
Tørst (Thirst) is the bar connected to Restaurant Sult (Hunger). They have both been awarded high praise and prizes by several magazines and newspapers. Tørst was originally meant as a bar for guests waiting for tables in the restaurant (which might take a couple of hours), but today a lot of people come here just to enjoy a drink. And the reasons are quite simple: the minimalist interior, the warm atmosphere, the open and welcoming staff and the reasonable prices. And if you have the time and are hungry, go for a meal at Sult; it is very good and inexpensive. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Multicultural melting pot of Oslo |
Oslo 0190, 0188 Norway |
The Tøyen/Grønland district is very mixed, and still the cheapest place to live in Oslo within walking distance of the Central Station. This is one of the reasons why it attracts both students and people moving to Oslo for the first time. There are more multicultural people living in this area than in any other part of the city. In the food shops - mostly Pakistani or Turkish - you will find both exotic and Norwegian products side by side. Also in this area are the Botanical Gardens, which are home to both the Geological and Zoological museums. Also nearby is the Munch Museum. One place that is also worth a visit is the Islamic Mosque at Åkebergveien 28 - a beautiful sight. The Rudolf Nilsens Plass park is a skating rink in winter and a ballgame park in the summer. Other places you could take a look at while you are in this area are Urtehagen (an open square where children of all nationalities play) and Museumsleiligheten at Tøyengaten 37 (an apartment decorated as it was at the beginning of the last century). The latter is open only on Sundays or by appointment with Oslo Bymuseum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Oasis of green in the city |
Munkedamsveien 3 B Oslo 0161 Norway +47 22 83 4232 http://www.vegetavertshus.no |
Vegeta is an oasis of green in the middle of the bustling city centre. Situated next to Nationalteatret bus and tram station, this non-smoking restaurant is a popular place to come for quality vegetarian cuisine. The all-you-can-eat specials represent great value and a 10% discount is available for students. All in all, this is a great place for a healthy lunch or dinner. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jamie Campbell |
 Photo: Veggie Friendly |
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Great food, decent prices |
Grefsenveien 6 Oslo 0482 Norway +47 22 22 17 70 |
This excellent restaurant is unfortunately located in the grey asphalt desert of the area called the North Pole. The place is rather small but usually full of people, because it is very popular. The reason: you actually get gourmet food at very reasonable prices. The place is decorated with style, and there are works of art on the walls. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal. All kinds of people find it worthwhile to travel to the North Pole to eat here. The number of dishes to choose from is not too big, but the menu is extremely tempting. The cuisine is international and the results are creative and exciting. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Calm, artistic |
Christian Augustsgate 7b Oslo 0164 Norway +47 22 20 6490 |
Art exhibitions, happenings and small talk. Zoo Lounge is seen by many as one of the main intellectual bars in the capital, where urban life meets modern art. Or at least the modern art student. Whether you prefer to discuss literature, politics or art or just enjoy a beer in the company of mid-20s to mid-30s people, the Zoo offers a wide range of alcoholic beverages and soft drinks. They often let young and unknown artists show their work there. Sometimes excellent, sometimes not... Review © 2007, Wcities |