Top Norwegian food & Hidden Gems You Can Experience in Norway

Norway offers more than just stunning fjords and Viking heritage, its traditional Norwegian cuisine and hidden travel gems provide unique experiences. From fårikål (lamb stew) to rakfisk (fermented fish) and off-the-beaten-path destinations, this guide explores the top Norwegian foods and hidden gems, plus the best time to experience them.

Traditional Norwegian Dishes You Must Try

Norwegian cuisine is deeply rooted in tradition, with dishes reflecting the country’s natural resources and Viking heritage. From hearty stews to preserved seafood, each meal tells a story of Norway’s past and present. Whether you’re exploring Oslo, Bergen, or the Arctic Circle, these authentic Norwegian dishes are a must-try for any traveler.

Fårikål, Norway’s National Dish

• • A simple yet flavorful dish made with lamb, cabbage, whole peppercorns, and water, slow-cooked to perfection.
  • Traditionally eaten in autumn, with a dedicated “Fårikål Day” celebrated on the last Thursday of September.
  • Best enjoyed in Norwegian homes and local restaurants, especially in rural areas.

Rakfisk, Norway’s Fermented Fish Delicacy

• • A strong-smelling fermented trout, aged for up to a year before being served.
  • Typically eaten raw, paired with flatbread, sour cream, onions, and aquavit (a traditional Scandinavian spirit).
  • A winter specialty, best experienced at Christmas markets and in local Norwegian homes.

Kjøttkaker, Traditional Norwegian Meatballs

• • Norwegian-style meatballs made with ground beef or a mix of pork and beef, seasoned with nutmeg and ginger.
  • Served with rich brown gravy, boiled potatoes, peas, and lingonberry jam for a balance of flavors.
  • A staple comfort food available year-round in Norwegian households and countryside restaurants.

Klippfisk, Dried & Salted Cod

• • A dish made by drying and salting cod, a method that dates back to the Viking Age.
  • Popular in coastal areas like Ålesund and Kristiansund, often used in fish-based stews and casseroles.
  • Best enjoyed in traditional seafood restaurants, where chefs prepare it using historic Norwegian recipes.

Best Norwegian Desserts to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Norway may be known for its seafood and hearty meals, but its desserts are just as delightful. From cloudberry-infused treats to buttery pastries, Norwegian sweets are a perfect way to end a meal or enjoy with a cup of coffee. These desserts can be found in bakeries across Norway, from Oslo’s trendy cafés to cozy countryside bakeries in the fjords.

Krumkake, Crispy Waffle Cookies

• • Thin, rolled waffle cookies made with butter, sugar, eggs, and cream, then baked in decorative irons.
  • Typically filled with whipped cream and enjoyed during Christmas and festive gatherings.
  • Best served with a cup of Norwegian coffee or hot chocolate.

Multekrem, Cloudberry Cream Dessert

• • A luxurious dessert made from tart, golden cloudberries mixed with sweetened whipped cream.
  • Often served during special celebrations and Christmas feasts.
  • Best experienced in Northern Norway, where wild cloudberries are harvested between July and August.

Skillingsboller, Norwegian Cinnamon Buns

• • Soft, buttery cinnamon rolls, originally from Bergen, known for their rich flavor and fluffy texture.
  • Often topped with sugar or a light glaze and enjoyed as a breakfast treat or coffee-time snack.
  • Found in nearly every Norwegian bakery and café, making it a must-try when exploring local markets.

Unique Dining Experiences in Norway

Norway’s culinary scene goes beyond traditional dishes—it offers some of the most extraordinary dining experiences in the world. From an underwater restaurant to Arctic reindeer feasts, these unique spots are a must-visit for food lovers seeking something special.

Eating at “Under”, Europe’s First Underwater Restaurant

• Located in Lindesnes, “Under” is the first and only underwater restaurant in Europe, submerged beneath the North Sea.
• This Michelin-starred dining spot offers an immersive experience, allowing guests to enjoy gourmet seafood dishes while watching marine life swim past panoramic glass walls.
• The restaurant focuses on sustainable dining, featuring locally sourced seafood like Norwegian lobster, sea urchins, and langoustine.

Savoring Reindeer Meat in the Arctic

• A staple of Sami cuisine, reindeer meat has been part of Northern Norwegian food culture for centuries.
• Available in various forms, from smoked reindeer jerky to rich, flavorful stews served with lingonberries and mashed potatoes.
• Best enjoyed in Alta, Tromsø, and Kirkenes, where you can dine in Sami lavvu tents under the Northern Lights.

Norway’s Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Villages

Beyond the famous fjords and cities, Norway is home to charming hidden villages where travelers can experience traditional culture, scenic landscapes, and local delicacies. These lesser-known spots are perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and discover Norway’s untouched beauty.

Undredal, A Tiny Fjordside Cheese Village

• Nestled along Aurlandsfjord, Undredal is famous for its brunost (Norwegian brown goat cheese), which has been produced here for generations.
• Despite having a population of only around 100 people, the village is home to over 500 goats, making it a paradise for cheese lovers.
• Visitors can tour local cheese farms, taste fresh goat cheese, and enjoy spectacular fjord views.

Røros, A Historic Mining Town

• A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Røros is one of Norway’s best-preserved historical towns, known for its 17th-century wooden houses and copper mining history.
• In winter, the town transforms into a magical Christmas market, complete with horse-drawn sleigh rides and traditional Norwegian crafts.
• The town’s local food scene is famous for its reindeer dishes, artisanal cheeses, and handcrafted baked goods.

Top 10 Restaurants in Norway

Norway offers a diverse culinary scene, from Michelin-starred fine dining to cozy local eateries. Whether you’re craving traditional Norwegian cuisine or contemporary fusion dishes, these restaurants provide some of the best dining experiences in the country.

Best Time to Experience Norwegian Food & Hidden Gems

Norway offers much more than just its famous fjords and Viking history. From delicious traditional dishes like fårikål and rakfisk to hidden villages and secret beaches, there’s something for every traveler looking to explore the best of Norwegian cuisine and culture.

Plan your visit based on the best seasons to enjoy these experiences, whether it’s food festivals in winter or fjord-side adventures in summer.

FAQs

1. What is the most famous food in Norway?

Fårikål (lamb and cabbage stew) is Norway’s national dish, best enjoyed in autumn.

2. Where can I try authentic Norwegian seafood?

Coastal towns like Ålesund, Bergen, and Tromsø offer the freshest seafood dishes, including klippfisk and salmon.

3. What’s a must-visit hidden gem in Norway?

Undredal, a tiny village famous for its goat cheese and fjord views, is a must-see.

4. What’s the best dessert to try in Norway?

Skillingsboller (Norwegian cinnamon buns) and krumkake (waffle cookies) are delicious local treats.

5. Is Norwegian food expensive?

Dining out in Norway can be pricey, but you can find budget-friendly options in bakeries, food markets, and local cafes.