10 must-try restaurants in Bergen

Are you are looking for a great place to eat out in Bergen, and struggling to choose where to go? Check out these 10 must-try restaurants in Bergen.

Bergen is emerging as one of the cities in Europe where you can truly have a great dining experience. The abundance of first-class ingredients from the sea and land just outside the city, and a blossoming culinary scene where young creative chefs inspire each other, are parts of the reason why Bergen now can offer world-class gastronomic experiences. 

1: Lysverket

Lysverket has been recognized by New York Times as a restaurant that redefines nordic cuisine. Lysverket presents a modern Norwegian cuisine with focus on local seafood, such as handpicked shells and dry-aged fish. The restaurant was awarded their first Michelin star in 2022.  

Photo: Lysverket 

2: Cornelius Seafood Restaurant

Cornelius Seafood Restaurant is perhaps the most exotic gastronomic attraction in Bergen. The restaurant is situated in the archipelago outside of Bergen, with spectacular views of the sea, mountains and skerries. Cornelius’ famous Meteorological Menu of exquisite seafood and trimmings is inspired by the weather of the day, and always prepared with a genuine passion for seafood. The restaurant is only accessible by boat, with daily departures from the famous Bryggen in the middle of Bergen. 

Photo: Giovanni Tagini - Visit Norway 

Photo: Ida Skeie / Cornelius Sjømatrestaurant

3: Schou

At the summit of Mount Fløyen, the restaurant Schou offers a 10-course sensory menu inspired by the mountains, fjords, and local flora. To reach this unique dining experience, take the Fløibanen Funicular from the city center to the top.

Foto: Fløyen 

4: Frescohallen

As long as we’re talking seafood, we have to mention Frescohallen, Bergens new seafood “cathedral”. Where delicious local and fresh dishes are served in what must be Norway’s most spectacular restaurant venue. The restaurant is located in a beautiful historical building, adorned with beautiful frescos on every wall.  

Photo: Christine Baglo - Visit Norway 

5: Skyskraperen Restaurant

Have you ever dined on a mountain top? Skyskraperen Restaurant is situated on top of the world, or at least on top of Bergen. Mount Ulriken is the highest of the seven mountains surrounding the city centre in Bergen, and Skyskraperen offers spectacular views of Bergen and the surroundings, as well as the most delicious food.  They offer a seasonal menu which changes according to the different times of the year. Their menu is inspired by Norwegian nature, tradition and the changing weather of the west coast.  

Photo: Max Igland 

6: Brasserie Chérie

Experience the essence of Paris at Brasserie Chérie in the heart of Bergen in the charming street Skostredet. As you step in, you are welcomed by captivating floral wallpaper, luxurious dark velour, vibrant decor, and plush sofas, creating an atmosphere that embodies the elegance and charm of the French world.

Enjoy the grandeur of early 20th-century Paris as you indulge in the ambiance of this French brasserie in Bergen.

Photo: Brasserie Chérie 

7: Bien Basar

Bien Basar is a classic Norwegian restaurant, inspired by continental restaurants and food markets. Bien Basar is located in another of the city's most iconic buildings, Kjøttbasaren, built in 1877. The restaurant serves classic dishes based on local ingredients, and is famous for their persetorsk, a traditional fish dish unique to Bergen.  

Photo: Bien Basar 

8: Pingvinen

Last, but certainly not least, we recommend a visit to Pingvinen gastropub, which serves Norwegian food and beer. A visit to Pingvinen feels very much like having dinner at your grandma’s house. Enjoy classic rustic dishes like fish pie, meat balls and meat stew, accompanied by local beer.  

Photo: Pingvinen 

9: Mandelhuset (in Tysnes outside Bergen)

If you’re feeling adventurous, we suggest you rent a car and travel to the nearby island of Tysnes for a meal in a totally different environment. Mandelhuset is situated just off the immediate waterfront at Våge on Tysnes, and serves homemade deliciousness to everyone who steps inside. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, the food simple, but exceptional. Everything from sauces to purees, bread to pastries, confectionery to ice cream, is made in the restaurant kitchen, based on ingredients brought in by the local fishermen and farmers.  

Photo: Camilla Korsnes 

10: Mirabelle by Ørjan Johannessen (in Austevoll outside Bergen)

If you consider yourself a foodie, there is a new treat worth checking out. Mirabelle by Ørjan Johannessen is an exclusive restaurant in Austevoll, just about 1.5 hours from Bergen. Whether you're out exploring the Bergen region or you just adore good food, making the journey to Austevoll for a meal at this restaurant in the charming Beckerwyc boutique hotel is a move worth considering. 

Photo: Tom Haga

Are you looking for restaurants serving more continental dishes? Check out our full list of restaurants in Bergen, there are certainly something for every taste or narrow down your options with these 5 great restaurants outside Bergen city center.