Top 11 Authentic Dinner Spots in Bergen: From Local Favorites to Culinary Gems

Cozy diner near Bryggen with quick service and affordable prices. Fish soup is rich, creamy, and highly recommended. Variety of fish dishes suits all tastes. Large portions offer good value. Staff is friendly and helpful. Free water available. Locals and tourists alike enjoy the casual, cafeteria-style atmosphere. Dishes are visually appealing and flavorful.

Fish soup lacks fresh fish, containing only fish products. Some find the food too salty. Fish cakes are described as merely passable. Menu items may change, potentially disappointing returning customers. Limited options for those who don't enjoy fish. Pricing, while fair for the area, may still be high for budget-conscious travelers.

Fish soup is a standout dish, praised for its quality and value. The bistro offers authentic Norwegian food at reasonable prices. Service is fast and friendly. The atmosphere is busy and popular, indicating local approval. Smoked salmon from the mixed platter is noteworthy. Visitors often express a desire to return.

Some found the fish soup gloopy with an overwhelming dill taste. Fish cakes were described as rubbery and lacking promised ingredients. Complaints about lukewarm, processed food with bland flavors. Some items were left uneaten due to poor taste and texture. Mixed platter received criticism for processed components. One reviewer vowed never to return.

Visitors rave about the authentic, delicious fish cakes and fish balls. Many praise the reasonable prices, generous portions, and friendly service. Reviewers often mention the historic atmosphere and the opportunity to eat like a local. The fish soup is frequently highlighted as a standout dish, especially on cold days.

Some reviewers note the limited seating and occasional long queues during peak hours. A few mention that the simple, no-frills atmosphere might not appeal to those seeking a more upscale dining experience. Rare complaints about the food being too salty or oily are also seen in some reviews.

1877 offers refined, elegant cuisine with creative dishes and excellent wine pairings. Standouts include white asparagus, scallops, and a unique sourdough bread. The 3-course surprise menu and 8-course tasting menu impress. Service is friendly and knowledgeable. The atmosphere blends old and new, creating a memorable fine dining experience in Bergen.

Some find 1877 overpriced for the quality. Service can be indifferent, with issues like lukewarm soup not addressed. The restaurant's location in Bergen's touristy port area may contribute to inflated prices. Not every dish in tasting menus appeals to all diners. Reservations might be necessary, especially on weekends.

Diners praise the excellent service and knowledgeable staff. The food is well-prepared, featuring fresh local ingredients. Standout dishes include the seafood soup. The restaurant offers an interesting wine and cider pairing. The atmosphere is stylish and lovely, creating a pleasant dining experience. Guests appreciate the limited menu focused on fresh, quality ingredients.

High prices are a common complaint, with some feeling the value doesn't match the cost. The wine pairing disappoints some due to small pours and perceived low value. Certain dishes are criticized for being overly salty. The limited menu may not appeal to all. Some find the seating uncomfortable, particularly the high bar seats, which can detract from a relaxed dining experience.

Diners rave about the exquisite presentation, innovative flavor combinations, and impeccable service. Many praise the knowledgeable staff and their ability to explain each dish's origin and preparation. The restaurant's atmosphere and attention to detail are frequently mentioned as highlights. Guests often describe their experience as a culinary adventure, appreciating the use of local, seasonal ingredients.

Some guests find the portion sizes small for the price point. A few reviewers mention long wait times between courses during busy periods. Occasionally, diners with dietary restrictions feel limited by the fixed menu options. Some tourists find the concept too avant-garde for their tastes, preferring more traditional Norwegian cuisine.

Lysverket offers exceptional cuisine with innovative dishes like oyster with pineapple ice cream. Chef Christopher Haatuft's punk-inspired approach creates a unique fine dining experience. The atmosphere is edgy yet elegant, with cool staff and provocative art. Standout dishes include perfectly seared scallops and transformed turnips. The chef's approachability and local sourcing philosophy enhance the experience.

Some diners found the pacing between courses slow, with food arriving after paired wines. The beverage pairings occasionally missed the mark, with servers unable to explain the pairings effectively. A few guests noted repeated pairings for multiple dishes. While the food was generally praised, some felt it lacked a 'wow factor' despite the overall positive experience.

Michelin-starred restaurant offers exceptional 9-course dining experience. Sophisticated dishes with surprising flavors. Perfect wine pairings with unusual selections. Friendly, entertaining staff. Standout dishes include mussel tempura and scallops with apricots. Clean, modern minimalist ambiance. Memorable, once-in-a-lifetime meal for food enthusiasts.

Not suitable for everyone due to high cost and lengthy dining experience (3.5 hours). May be too sophisticated for some palates. Expensive, even for a special occasion. Caviar dish can be skipped. Limited appeal to those seeking quick or casual dining experiences.

Diners rave about the inventive flavor combinations and impeccable presentation. Many praise the knowledgeable staff and their excellent wine pairings. The tasting menu receives high marks for its creativity and use of unique local ingredients. Guests often mention the elegant ambiance and the added bonus of being able to explore the museum before or after their meal.

Some visitors find the prices steep, even for fine dining in Norway. A few reviewers mention long waits between courses during busy periods. Occasionally, guests report that certain experimental dishes didn't meet their taste preferences. Some diners expecting traditional Norwegian fare express disappointment with the modern interpretations.

Diners rave about the fresh fish dishes, especially the Bergen cod and fish soup. Portions are generous and satisfying. The restaurant offers a taste of traditional Norwegian cuisine with high-quality ingredients. Service is excellent, with staff providing helpful explanations. The atmosphere is cozy, perfect for comfort food on cold days. Prices are reasonable for the quality.

Some found the fish soup slightly too salty. The apple cider wasn't to everyone's taste. Reservations may be necessary as the restaurant can get busy. While portions are large, couples might need to order strategically to avoid overordering. The menu focuses heavily on fish, which may not suit all preferences.

Local dishes shine at this popular spot. Standouts include gin-cured reindeer, plukkfisk, and fish soup. Attentive staff offer great recommendations for local drinks. Warm, cozy atmosphere perfect for rainy days. Hearty portions and a good beer selection. Pre-booking advised due to high demand. Many guests plan return visits.

One reviewer had a poor experience, citing cold soup and subpar salted lamb ribs. They felt the service was rushed and impersonal. The Cava served was criticized as cheap, especially given the prices. This negative review stands in stark contrast to the predominantly positive feedback, suggesting it might be an outlier.

Guests rave about the authentic Norwegian dishes, generous portions, and cozy atmosphere. Many praise the friendly staff and excellent service. The locally-sourced ingredients and traditional recipes receive high marks, with the fish soup and meatballs being particular favorites. Visitors appreciate the reasonable prices and the opportunity to try unique Norwegian specialties.

Some reviewers mention long wait times during peak hours due to the restaurant's popularity. A few guests find the space cramped and noisy when busy. Occasionally, complaints arise about limited vegetarian options. Some international visitors note that certain traditional dishes might be an acquired taste for those unfamiliar with Norwegian cuisine.

Fantastic atmosphere with immediate service. Delicious Norwegian cuisine, especially fish soup and reindeer dish. Tender wolfish with smooth white sauce. Great value despite high prices. Amazing mussels and Christmas platters. Perfectly cooked medium-rare beef. Nice location in Bryggen. Friendly staff and hospitable service. Recommended for authentic Norwegian dining experience.

Reservations are a must, which could be inconvenient. Some dishes were dry (halibut, duck breast) or salty (lamb ribs). Fish soup might be too creamy for some tastes. Prices are quite high, which may deter budget-conscious diners. Late-night dining options may be limited as the restaurant closes at 11pm. Some may find the creamy fish soup overwhelming.

Diners praise the stunning harbor views and authentic decor. The seasonal cod and mussels are standout dishes, beautifully presented with delicious sauces. Excellent wine selection complements meals. Staff is charming and service can be top-notch. Some consider it the best meal they've had in years. Early arrival may secure walk-in spots downstairs.

Service can be slow and unfriendly, with long waits for orders and food. Some find dishes lacking in taste and temperature. Portion sizes for starters are small. Prices are high, leading some to view it as a tourist trap. Reindeer dish was under-seasoned and less tender than expected. Window seating requests may not be honored. Some suggest exploring other Bergen restaurants instead.

Diners praise the restaurant's authentic Norwegian cuisine, particularly the seafood dishes and traditional meat options. The historic ambiance and attentive service receive high marks. Many appreciate the opportunity to taste local specialties like reindeer and stockfish. The picturesque location and harbor views are often mentioned as highlights of the dining experience.

Some guests find the prices high, even for Norway. A few reviewers note that the traditional dishes may not suit all palates, especially those unfamiliar with Norwegian cuisine. Occasionally, diners report slow service during busy periods. Some feel the portion sizes are small compared to the cost.

Exceptional bar with outstanding cocktails and welcoming staff. Michelin-starred restaurant offers mind-blowing tasting menu with innovative, delicious dishes. Impeccable service rivals 3-star establishments. Standout items include duck, Norwegian eel, salmon nigiri, and matcha crème brûlée. Non-alcoholic drink pairings highly recommended. Food presentation is stunning.

Tasting menu experience can be lengthy, lasting 4-5 hours, which may be tiring for some guests. Portions are tiny, making it more of a 'food show' than a filling meal. While service is great, there's room for improvement. The restaurant is no longer located in the hotel, which may inconvenience some visitors expecting on-site dining.

Exceptional wine bar with impressive list and passionate sommelier. Excellent small plates and snacks. Outstanding cocktails mixed by skilled bartender. Welcoming atmosphere with great service. Previously a Michelin-starred restaurant, now offers high-quality bar experience. Tasting menu described as interesting and tasty. Beautiful mirrored bar room setting.

Confusion about current status. Some reviews mention it's closed or changed from Michelin-starred restaurant to wine bar. Website may be outdated. Tasting menu, while tasty, not very filling for some. Potential disappointment for those expecting full restaurant experience. Closure without notice to those with reservations caused inconvenience.

Guests rave about the exceptional tasting menus, praising the creativity and presentation of dishes. Many highlight the attentive, knowledgeable staff who enhance the dining experience with their explanations of each course. The use of local, high-quality ingredients and the restaurant's commitment to sustainability are frequently commended.

Some diners find the portion sizes small for the price point. A few reviews mention long wait times between courses during busy periods. Occasionally, guests feel the flavors are too experimental or unconventional for their tastes. The limited menu options for those with dietary restrictions have been noted as a drawback by some visitors.

Exceptional dining experience in Bergen. Seasonal menu offers beautifully executed dishes. Standouts include bacon ravioli, lamb pate, veal, and cod with kale chips. Intimate, cozy ambiance. Attentive service. Reservations recommended due to popularity. Perfect for a special meal in Bergen. Crab starter and fish main course also praised.

Dishes took longer than expected to arrive. Tables placed close together, raising concerns about proximity to other diners. One reviewer found the veal disappointing. Not all dishes received universal praise. Some felt flavors weren't mind-blowing. Tasting menu may not offer variety for main course. Busy atmosphere could be overwhelming for some.

Exceptional food quality with unique dishes and perfect preparation. Offers a diverse menu including fish, meat, and vegan options. Intimate atmosphere with friendly, helpful staff. Tasting menu provides excellent value. Known for outstanding service and consideration for dietary needs. Helps with local travel advice. Consistently rated as a top restaurant in Bergen.

Extremely crowded with tables placed very close together, leading to a lack of privacy and difficulty in having conversations. The cramped space (20 people in 300 sqft) creates a stressful dining experience for some patrons. This crowding issue seems common in Bergen restaurants, potentially affecting the overall dining experience in the city.

Diners rave about the creative presentation and exquisite flavors of dishes. Many praise the knowledgeable staff and their excellent wine pairing recommendations. The intimate atmosphere and attention to detail in service are frequently mentioned as highlights. Guests appreciate the use of local, seasonal ingredients and the chef's ability to elevate traditional Norwegian cuisine.

Some visitors find the portion sizes small for the price point. A few reviews mention long wait times between courses during busy periods. Occasional complaints arise about the limited menu options, particularly for vegetarians. Some diners feel the ambient noise can be high when the restaurant is full, impacting the overall experience.

Great location with harbor views. Excellent food, especially the large, tasty mussels. Wide selection of high-quality beers. Nice setup with plenty of seating, including a cute balcony. Third-floor views are a highlight. Shuffleboard room adds fun. Elevated menu compared to U.S. breweries. Good break from typical tourist spots.

Service can be inconsistent, sometimes attentive, other times absent. Prices slightly higher than nearby options. Can be hard to find. Kitchen not always open, even during less busy times. Some visitors felt there were better options at lower prices within walking distance.

Visitors rave about the extensive selection of craft beers, praising the unique flavors and high quality. Many highlight the knowledgeable staff who offer excellent recommendations. The food receives high marks for its generous portions and delicious Norwegian-inspired dishes. The atmosphere is frequently described as cozy and welcoming, perfect for relaxing evenings.

Some guests find the prices a bit steep, especially for the food. A few reviewers mention long wait times during peak hours. Occasionally, visitors note that the noise level can be high when the venue is crowded. Some international tourists express disappointment at the limited English menu options.

Delicious, authentic Ethiopian food made with love. Vegetarian options are highly recommended. Unique atmosphere with comfortable seating. Friendly service provides traditional eating instructions. Perfect portion sizes. Warm hand wipes offered before meals. Great for patient, thoughtful eaters who appreciate the experience. Worth visiting when in Bergen.

Long wait times for food, up to 1 hour 15 minutes. Some find portion sizes too small for the price. Food quality described as average by some customers. Limited vegan options, especially for desserts. Service can be slow due to one-person operation. Not recommended for those in a hurry or expecting quick service.

Exotic and cozy atmosphere with tasty Eritrean/Ethiopian cuisine. Friendly service explains hand-eating technique. Generous portions of delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Warm dinner rolls are a hit. Enjoyable music and fitting decor. Great for trying something new and different. Casual dining suitable for everyone.

Long wait times for food reported by some guests. Pancake accompaniment not to everyone's taste. Slightly off the beaten track location might be inconvenient for some visitors. Limited negative feedback overall, with most reviews overwhelmingly positive about the food, service, and experience.

Diners praise the authentic flavors, generous portions, and friendly service. Many appreciate the opportunity to try new dishes and enjoy the communal dining experience. Vegetarian options receive high marks, and the homemade injera is often highlighted as a standout. The cozy atmosphere and reasonable prices are frequently mentioned as positives.

Some reviewers find the spice levels inconsistent, either too mild or too hot. A few mention long wait times during busy periods. Occasional complaints about limited seating and the need for better ventilation in the dining area. Some diners unfamiliar with East African cuisine express confusion about how to eat the dishes properly.

To Kokker offers a unique Norwegian dining experience. Guests praise the delicious, fresh seafood dishes, particularly the cod and salmon. The 5-course set meal receives high marks. The atmosphere is described as charming and 'old school' Norwegian. Some diners appreciate the quick service and enjoy the local Hansa beer. The restaurant's location near Bergen harbor is convenient for tourists.

Several guests find To Kokker overpriced, especially for tourists. The seafood soup is criticized as salty and expensive. Some diners report inconsistent food quality, with complaints about undercooked scallops and bland dishes. Service can be slow or inattentive at times. The practice of charging for unrequested, stale bread is a point of contention. Some feel the overall value doesn't justify the high prices.

Excellent food, especially seafood and local specialties. Standouts include halibut, salmon, and deer filet. Impressive wine list. Attentive service and charming ambiance reflect Bergen's merchant history. Accommodating staff. Unique desserts like brown cheese ice cream. Convenient location near hotels and attractions. Great for pre-concert dining.

Expensive, with potential service issues for tourists. Some felt unwelcome or judged on appearance. Inconsistent treatment, possibly favoring locals over visitors. Hidden service charges and tipping confusion. Single scallop starter disappointing. Formal dress code expected. Not suitable for budget-conscious diners. Potential language barrier with staff.

Diners praise To Kokker for its exceptional food quality, innovative presentations, and attentive service. Many highlight the restaurant's intimate ambiance and the unique experience of dining in a historic building. The tasting menu receives particular acclaim, with guests appreciating the chef's creative use of local ingredients and the wine pairings.

Some guests find the prices high, even for fine dining in Norway. A few mention that portion sizes can be small, especially for the tasting menu. Occasionally, diners report that the service, while generally good, can be slow during busy periods. Some international visitors note that the menu might be too adventurous for less adventurous palates.

Cozy spot with great ambience and efficient self-ordering system. Wide selection of tasty dishes, including standout shakshouka, pizzas, and pasta. Excellent craft beer options and non-alcoholic drinks. Friendly staff provide top-notch service, handling issues graciously. Good value for money, especially the lamb burger. Clean facilities and accommodating for families.

Can get crowded, especially on rainy nights. Some dishes like shakshouka smaller than expected. Pasta described as 'okay' by one reviewer. Wings good but not exceptional. Meal portions might not be fully satisfying for some. Located slightly out of the way, which could be inconvenient for tourists.

Great food with diverse options including pizza, pasta, and burgers. Excellent hummus. Wide beer selection with 150 types. Friendly, helpful staff offer umbrellas on rainy days. Vibrant atmosphere with retro music. Prices 20-30%% cheaper than similar restaurants. Quick service with convenient table payment. Worth the wait for a table.

Restaurant is often full, which may lead to wait times for seating. No other significant negative aspects mentioned in the provided reviews.

Visitors rave about the friendly staff, cozy atmosphere, and delicious food. Many praise the excellent coffee and homemade cakes. The café's commitment to using local ingredients is appreciated. Guests often mention the reasonable prices and generous portions. The changing seasonal menu and occasional live music events are also highlighted as positive aspects.

Some reviewers mention that the café can get crowded during peak hours, leading to longer wait times. A few customers found the menu limited for those with dietary restrictions. Occasional complaints about slow service during busy periods. Some international visitors noted that not all staff members were fluent in English, causing minor communication issues.