5 Top Traditional Norwegian Food You Shouldn’t Miss

When you travel, let your taste buds be your guide. Whether it’s your first time in Oslo or you’re a returning visitor to Norway, immersing yourself in Norwegian cuisine is the ultimate way to experience our culture.

Every country has its own traditional cuisine and Norway is no exception. There’s something to suit every palette, from world-renowned cheeses to fresh Atlantic cod and simple sweet treats that will have you planning a return visit to Oslo.

Looking to get your taste buds excited? Taste authentic Norwegian cuisine and discover Oslo through the eyes of locals by signing up for a 3-hour whistlestop food tour of Oslo.

What is Traditional Norwegian Food?

Norway is famous for its farm-to-fork cuisine, whether it’s the classic brunost cheese (a caramelised whey cheese) or fenalår, cured meat made from a leg of lamb. Fårikål is the national dish of Norway, a lamb stew with cabbage that is perfect for a cold autumnal day.

Did you know Norway is the country with the most Bocuse d’Or awards? Whether you’re searching for Norwegian seafood, artisan chocolate, or iconic cheeses, you’ll be spoilt for choice with traditional Norwegian food to try.

5 Most Popular Norwegian Foods to Try in Oslo

We’re sharing a mixture of classic Norwegian foods that will suit every palette. Between visits to popular Oslo tourist attractions like the Akershus Fortress, the Fram Museum, and Vigeland Park, treat your taste buds to these must-try Norwegian foods.

1.    Waffles with Brown Goat Cheese

Did you even visit Oslo if you don’t post a photo of waffles on your Instagram? The most popular waffles can be found at Harald’s Vaffel in Grünerløkka. If you’re not a fan of brown cheese, you can switch it out for a sweeter topping like Nutella or ice cream.

2.   Meatballs in Brown Sauce

Sample some authentic Norwegian comfort food by ordering meat balls in brown sauce. Like most rural European dishes, Norwegian meatballs are usually served with carrots, cranberries, and potatoes.

If you’re in Oslo, you’ll get the closest version to an authentic home-cooked Norwegian meal at Kaffistova. It’s also the perfect option if you’re looking for family-friendly food in Oslo.

3.   Pork Belly with Sour Cabbage

Ribbe is a popular Norwegian dish traditionally served with surkål, sour cabbage. Although typically served as a Christmas Eve dish, you can find this roasted pork belly served year-round. If you’re visiting the Oslo Christmas markets, make a reservation to try Ribbe during your visit.

4.   Dried Lamb Ribs with Potatoes

Meat dishes are what Norway cuisine is more known for. Pinnekjøtt is a common Norweign dish of dried lamb ribs, lightly salted, typically served with rutabaga and potatoes. Wash it down with a popular Norwegian beer, like a Ringnes Pilsner, Lervig, or Austmann.

5.   School Bread

If you’re looking for a mid-day snack in Norway or street food as an affordable lunch, go old school with Skolebrød. Known in English as ‘school bread’, it’s one of the most popular Norwegian sweet treats. The dough is filled with custard and dipped in coconut as a sweet bun that’s perfect with a Scandinavian-style coffee.

Get a Taste of Norway by Booking an Oslo Food Tour 

Are you jetting off to Norway? Take the guesswork out of your travel itinerary by booking a local food tour of Oslo. Want something a little more personalised? Drop us a message to explore your options for a private Oslo food tour. Whether you’re heading to Oslo soon or planning your bucket list trip to Norway, follow us on Instagram for hidden gems and Oslo travel tips.