"The fish soup in Bergen is very unique," says the chef. Here are the restaurants you must visit in the city on Norway's west coast.
"If you want to criticize the fish soup, you shouldn’t come to Bergen," Ole-Johnny warns us with a laugh.
If there is anything the people of Bergen specialise in, it's fresh seafood and local ingredients, he points out. Ole-Johnny works in De Bergenske as head chef at Zander K Hotel.
"The fish soup is very special here in Bergen," he says and adds with enthusiasm:
"It's got cream, it's got mussels, and all the good stuff!"
By all the good, Ole-Johnny means shrimp, shellfish, and fresh fish from the sea off the capital of Western Norway. Bergen fish soup not only represents the city's maritime heritage, but it also gives the taste buds an experience of the rich diversity of seafood found in the city.
Here are the top five eateries in Bergen, according to chef Ole-Johnny:
1. Bryggen – dining experiences in historic surroundings
Bryggen in Bergen is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and represents an important part of the city's history and cultural heritage. If you've seen pictures of Bergen, you've definitely seen the crooked and colourful wooden houses that line its wharf, Bryggen. This is also Ole-Johnny's favourite place, with the large selection of restaurants offering everything from fish restaurants, to Italian and Asian as well as several cosy cafés and bakeries.
2. Bare – A Top-Tier Restaurant
At BARE Vin og Matbar, the focus is on local seafood and exclusive cuts of meat and fish. You can choose to dine in the restaurant or sit at the bar and enjoy cocktails crafted by one of Bergen's best sommeliers. BARE is located at Bergen Børs Hotel.
3. Zander K Hotel – for the social butterfly
If you want to have a lively and social time, enjoy good food, and taste local micro brewed beer, go to Matbaren at Zander K Hotel. On the menu you will find everything from lunch and freshly brewed coffee to main courses such as pizza or braised beef cheeks. Or, how about a glass of bubbly after work?
Zander K Hotel is urban and new and is located right in the centre of Bergen.
4. Cornelius Seafood Restaurant - an intense seafood experience
Located on an islet in the middle of the seaward approach to Bergen, Cornelius Seafood Restaurant is known for its fantastic views of the fjord. The restaurant was also the inspiration for the dark horror comedy, The Menu, which came out in 2022. The film is about guests visiting a luxury restaurant on a remote island, with a chef who has anything but good intentions.
Fortunately, the reality is much more pleasant, and a visit here is an unforgettable culinary experience. You will also get to meet Alf Roald Sætre, one of the owners who entertains guests with his stories about his life and restaurant.
5. Wesselstuen – an authentic Bergen experience
Wesselstuen is a traditional and renowned restaurant, with a history dating back to 1957. The place has been a regular haunt of journalists and actors for years. If you want to experience something authentic and a real Bergen institution, head to Wesselstuen. The restaurant serves everything from Wesselburgers and the catch of the day to tenderloin steaks and venison.
Bon appétit and have a wonderful trip to Bergen!
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