Small Group Travel Blog: Expert Travel Tips, Destination Guides & Tour Advice

Where to Eat in Oslo: Favorite Food Stops on Our Norway Small Group Tours

We’ve been traveling to Norway since 2013 on our Norway and the Fjords by Scenic Rail trip, and after dozens of visits, Oslo has quietly won us over—especially when it comes to food. While Norway isn’t typically known for a headline-grabbing restaurant scene like Paris or Rome, Oslo offers plenty of memorable places for casual bites, local favorites, and special meals. These are some of our go-to eating spots in Oslo that we happily share with our small group travelers.

Vippa

Located right on the waterfront, Vippa is one of Oslo’s most enjoyable casual dining spots. This lively food hall features a wide range of international street food, making it ideal for groups with varied tastes. The relaxed, social atmosphere and views of the Oslofjord are hard to beat—especially on a sunny day. While food quality can vary by vendor and indoor seating can feel busy, the outdoor tables and overall vibe make Vippa a favorite stop on our Traveling Professor tours.

Syverkiosken

Norwegians love their hot dogs—known locally as pølse—and Syverkiosken is proof. This historic, no-frills stand serves some of the best pølser in the city, wrapped in soft lompe (think of it as a soft tortilla wrapping up your hot dog to keep all the toppings from falling out) and topped with house-made sauces and crispy onions. It’s affordable, flavorful, and authentically local. Expect to eat standing up, but also expect big taste and friendly service.

Ekebergrestauranten

Perched high above the city, Ekebergrestauranten delivers one of the most spectacular dining views in Oslo. Overlooking the Oslofjord and skyline, this restaurant pairs its setting with a seasonal menu inspired by Nordic and modern European cuisine. While service consistency can vary, the combination of scenery, terrace seating, and thoughtfully prepared dishes makes it an excellent choice for a memorable evening meal.

Bislett Kebab House

After a full day of sightseeing, Bislett Kebab House is exactly what you want: fast, filling, and full of flavor. A longtime Oslo favorite, it’s known for juicy kebabs, crispy falafel, and generous portions topped with bold house-made sauces. Open late and popular with locals, this spot is perfect for a quick, satisfying bite with zero pretension.

Mauriske Salonger

If there’s one culinary category Norwegians truly excel at, it’s brunch. Mauriske Salonger at Hotel Bristol offers an elegant brunch experience in a stunning Moorish-inspired room. Expect beautifully presented open-faced sandwiches, pastries, scones, and an excellent tea selection. The ambiance is refined yet relaxed—ideal for a leisurely weekend brunch—though prices reflect the upscale setting.  Travelers on our small group tours love to splurge here. 

Eating Well in Oslo with the Traveling Professor

After years of exploring Norway, these Oslo food spots consistently deliver quality, character, and a sense of place. Whether it’s a casual waterfront lunch, a classic Norwegian hot dog, or an elegant brunch, each stop adds flavor to the journey. On our Small Group Tours by The Traveling Professor, we believe experiencing local food is part of understanding a destination—and Oslo serves up plenty to enjoy.