- Stavanger
- Lunch and snacks
Lunch and snacks
Best Local Lunch Spots and Snack Places in Stavanger: Where Norwegians Actually Eat
Discover Stavanger's authentic lunch venues and cozy cafes away from tourist crowds, featuring traditional Norwegian fare and local favorites loved by residents.

Kafé Sting
Kafé Sting is a beloved local gathering spot in Stavanger, combining traditional Norwegian café culture with modern sensibilities. The intimate venue offers freshly prepared meals throughout the day, from hearty breakfast options to satisfying lunch dishes. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and attentive service, the café attracts both locals and visitors seeking authentic Norwegian hospitality. The menu features seasonal ingredients sourced from regional producers, creating dishes that reflect the flavors of western Norway. Large windows provide natural light while creating a comfortable space for both quick meals and leisurely conversations. The café's commitment to quality extends from their carefully selected coffee beans to their homemade pastries and traditional Norwegian specialties.
Summary of reviews from

Great outdoor seating with views of Valberget lookout tower. Clean bar with friendly service and quality drinks like Tou pilsner and elderflower spritz. Good electronic music creates a lively dancing atmosphere. Vintage, classy interior can feel romantic. Perfect spot for people watching and families with playground nearby.
Mobile ordering system doesn't always work, requiring trips inside to collect drinks. Music volume is consistently too loud, making conversation across tables difficult. Drinks are expensive as expected for the location.
Reviews summarized from between Sep 2020 and Jun 2025
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Visitors consistently praise the warm atmosphere and friendly staff who create a welcoming environment. The coffee quality receives high marks, with many noting the expertly prepared espresso drinks. Traditional Norwegian dishes are particularly well-received, offering authentic local flavors.
Some guests mention limited seating during peak hours, which can result in wait times. A few reviews note that prices are slightly higher than expected for casual dining. Occasional service delays during busy periods have been reported by some visitors.
Døgnvill Burger Stavanger
Døgnvill Burger Stavanger brings New York-style gourmet burgers to Norway's oil capital with a distinctly American diner atmosphere. This popular burger joint occupies a prime spot in Stavanger's city center, serving handcrafted patties made from premium Norwegian beef alongside creative toppings and house-made sauces. The restaurant features industrial-chic decor with exposed brick walls, neon lighting, and vintage American memorabilia that creates an authentic NYC burger experience. Their menu extends beyond burgers to include loaded fries, milkshakes, and craft beer selections. The kitchen stays open late, making it a favorite among locals and tourists seeking quality comfort food after exploring Stavanger's historic streets or before heading out for evening entertainment.
Summary of reviews from

Døgnvill Burger delivers exceptional burgers with perfect cooking and amazing flavors. Service is remarkably fast with food arriving within 15 minutes. Staff provide warm welcomes and friendly, attentive service. The restaurant offers clean, spacious seating across two floors. Standout items include crispy sweet potato fries, house-made onion rings, and excellent draft beer selection.
The main concern mentioned is portion sizes, with one reviewer noting that while the quantity is enough to satisfy cravings, it could be more generous. The restaurant gets very busy, requiring advance reservations even on weekday evenings. No other significant complaints were noted across the reviews.
Reviews summarized from between Jan 2025 and May 2025
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Visitors consistently praise the exceptional burgers, calling them the best in town. The crispy fries and creamy milkshakes receive high marks. Service stands out with attentive, friendly waitstaff. Regulars return frequently, making this their first dining choice. The chili cheese fries with bacon are a must-try specialty.
The main complaint centers on burger construction issues. Thick tomato slices tend to slide around, making the burgers messy and difficult to eat properly. This presentation problem affects the overall dining experience despite the quality ingredients.
Reviews summarized from between Apr 2025 and Jun 2025
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Visitors praise the exceptional burger quality with perfectly cooked Norwegian beef patties and fresh toppings. The authentic American atmosphere and friendly service receive frequent mentions. Many highlight the generous portion sizes and late-night availability as major advantages.
Some guests find the prices steep for burger portions, especially compared to similar restaurants. Occasional complaints about slow service during peak hours and limited vegetarian options. A few reviews mention the restaurant can get quite noisy when crowded.
Bøker og Børst
Bøker og Børst combines a bookstore with a cozy cafe, creating a unique cultural experience in Stavanger's old town. This literary haven serves quality coffee, homemade pastries, and light meals while surrounded by carefully curated books. The atmosphere encourages lingering with a good read and warm beverage. Local art adorns the walls, and the space hosts regular book readings and cultural events. The menu features Norwegian-inspired dishes alongside international favorites, all prepared with attention to local ingredients. Visitors can browse books in multiple languages while enjoying freshly baked goods. The combination of literary culture and quality food makes it a distinctive destination for both locals seeking a quiet workspace and tourists wanting an authentic Stavanger experience beyond typical restaurants.
Summary of reviews from

Family-friendly cafe bar on Stavanger's famous colorful houses street offers craft beers, homemade cakes, and coffee. Features quirky decor, board games, indoor and outdoor seating with sun trap. Great atmosphere with cozy ambience, kind staff, and excellent music. Perfect spot for people watching while enjoying regional beers and delicious snacks.
No table service without clear notification to customers. Coffee quality suffered when left unattended, with cappuccino losing foam. Seating can be lost while ordering. Traditional waffle with jam underwhelming for the £5.50 price point. Service system unclear and potentially frustrating for first-time visitors.
Reviews summarized from between Feb 2025 and Apr 2025
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This Stavanger café offers excellent coffee and craft beer selection with helpful English-speaking staff. The wooden interior features plenty of plants creating great atmosphere. Outdoor seating available on the main pedestrian area. Standout items include cinnamon scrolls and unique alcohol-free pineapple beer. Quick, efficient service.
Limited issues reported by visitors. One customer experienced confusion when ordering a Pumpkin Spice Latte that turned out to be chai instead. Some breakfast treats were described as only average quality, though the venue itself was still considered appealing and worth visiting.
Reviews summarized from between Aug 2024 and May 2025
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Visitors praise the unique concept blending books and food perfectly. The coffee quality receives consistent compliments, along with fresh pastries and cozy reading atmosphere. Many appreciate the knowledgeable staff who provide excellent book recommendations and friendly service.
Some customers find limited seating during peak hours and note that food portions can be smaller than expected. A few mention higher prices compared to standard cafes, and occasional complaints about slow service during busy literary events.
Tango Bar & Kjøkken
Tango Bar & Kjøkken brings Latin American flavors to Stavanger with a vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktail program. The restaurant serves modern interpretations of South American dishes alongside carefully crafted drinks in a stylish setting. Located in downtown Stavanger, this establishment combines restaurant dining with an energetic bar scene. The menu features dishes inspired by Argentina, Brazil, and other Latin American countries, prepared with Norwegian ingredients. The venue transforms from a dinner destination to a lively nightspot as evening progresses. The interior design reflects Latin American culture with warm colors and contemporary touches that create an inviting social space.
Summary of reviews from

Guests praise the excellent cocktails and unique Latin American menu offerings. The atmosphere receives high marks for being lively and welcoming. Staff knowledge of both food and drinks impresses diners consistently.
Some visitors find the music too loud for conversation during dinner hours. A few reviews mention that service can be slow during peak times. Portions are occasionally described as smaller than expected for the price point.
Fisketorget Restaurant
Fisketorget Restaurant occupies a prime waterfront location overlooking Stavanger's bustling harbor and fish market. This upscale seafood establishment specializes in fresh Norwegian catches prepared with modern techniques and traditional flavors. The restaurant features floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the port, creating an atmospheric dining experience that connects guests with Stavanger's maritime heritage. Chef-driven menus change seasonally to showcase the best local ingredients from both sea and land. The interior combines contemporary Scandinavian design with nautical touches, featuring natural wood, clean lines, and maritime artwork. Service maintains professional standards befitting the restaurant's reputation as one of Stavanger's premier dining destinations.
Summary of reviews from

Exceptional seafood restaurant with incredibly fresh ingredients including oysters, mussels, salmon, and daily catch. Generous portions and reasonable prices. Friendly, attentive service. Great wine selection. Fish soup and tuna risotto standouts. Many visitors return multiple times during their stay.
Small restaurant requires reservations during busy periods. Outdoor seating can be cold, though heaters are available upon request. Limited negative feedback suggests mostly positive dining experiences overall.
Reviews summarized from between Aug 2024 and May 2025
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Fresh, exceptional fish that tastes just-caught makes this restaurant stand out. The friendly, attentive staff provides excellent service even when busy. Menu offers plenty of variety with fresh salads and vegetables. Great location creates a wonderful dining atmosphere that guests love.
Kids meals aren't listed on the menu and must be requested separately. The restaurant gets very busy, which could mean longer waits. Limited negative feedback suggests most diners have positive experiences overall.
Reviews summarized from between Jun 2025 and Jun 2025
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Diners consistently praise the exceptional fresh seafood quality and creative preparations. The harbor views create a memorable atmosphere that enhances the dining experience. Professional service receives frequent commendation for attention to detail and knowledgeable staff.
Some guests find prices steep even by Norwegian standards. Occasional complaints about slow service during peak dining hours. A few visitors mention limited options for non-seafood preferences, making it challenging for diverse groups.
Egon Restaurant Stavanger
Egon Restaurant Stavanger occupies a prime location in downtown Stavanger, serving an extensive menu that spans international cuisine with Norwegian influences. This family-friendly establishment features a casual dining atmosphere with modern decor and spacious seating arrangements. The restaurant offers everything from hearty breakfast options and traditional Norwegian dishes to international favorites like burgers, pasta, and steaks. Large portions are standard here, making it popular among locals and tourists seeking substantial meals. The venue provides both indoor dining and outdoor seating during warmer months. Staff members are generally accommodating and speak English well, making it accessible for international visitors exploring Stavanger's dining scene.
Summary of reviews from

Egon Stavanger offers a unique three-floor dining experience in the city center with rustic interiors and friendly staff. Visitors appreciate the reasonable prices, diverse menu options, and convenient ordering system via phone or counter. The central location and cozy atmosphere make it popular with repeat customers.
The extensive menu lacks focus, leading to inconsistent food quality. Common complaints include overcooked meat, bland flavors, and dry fries. Seating near the entrance gets cold, and some items are overpriced like onion rings at 44kr and large Coke at 77kr. Kitchen basics need improvement.
Reviews summarized from between Oct 2024 and Jun 2025
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Visitors praise the restaurant's heated outdoor terrace for comfortable dining. Food quality stands out with well-presented dishes, good portions, and delicious flavors. Gluten-free options are available. Staff receive positive feedback for being lovely, approachable, and efficient. The venue works well for both meals and afternoon drinks.
Ordering process requires going inside to place orders rather than table service. Norwegian drink prices are expensive with poor value. Service can be slow when clearing finished dishes. The pizza buffet disappoints significantly with minimal food selection and poor quality salad offerings, especially during off-peak hours.
Reviews summarized from between Apr 2025 and Jun 2025
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Guests praise the generous portion sizes and diverse menu options that cater to different tastes. Many appreciate the central location and friendly service from English-speaking staff. The casual atmosphere makes it suitable for families with children.
Some diners find the food quality inconsistent and overpriced for what's offered. Service can be slow during peak hours, and a few guests mention that certain dishes lack authenticity or proper seasoning.
No 18 Kulturkafé
No 18 Kulturkafé is Stavanger's premier coffee destination, occupying a stylish space that attracts both locals and tourists seeking exceptional coffee experiences. The café roasts its own beans on-site, creating aromatic blends that fill the intimate interior. Dark wood furnishings and industrial touches create a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for meetings or quiet moments. The menu extends beyond coffee to include fresh pastries, light lunches, and artisanal sandwiches. Skilled baristas craft each drink with precision, from classic espressos to creative seasonal beverages. The café's commitment to quality extends to sourcing local ingredients when possible. Large windows provide natural light and street views, making it an ideal spot for people-watching. Weekend brunch offerings draw crowds who appreciate the relaxed pace and attention to detail.
Summary of reviews from

This Stavanger café offers a cozy atmosphere with friendly, service-minded staff. The Norwegian waffles are delicious and the coffee is excellent. Homemade cakes are reasonably priced and served on charming vintage crockery. The comfortable setting features varied furniture creating a homely feel that makes for a pleasant experience.
The café can get noisy in the main seating area and needs better cleaning. Food portions are small like tasters, which may disappoint hungry visitors. Prices are high at 80 NOK for a single waffle. Some items arrive overcooked and dry. Service issues include orders delivered to wrong tables.
Reviews summarized from between Aug 2024 and Feb 2025
Summary of reviews from

Exceptional fresh seafood that tastes just-caught, with excellent fish quality being a standout. Menu offers extensive variety including kids options upon request. Staff provides friendly, attentive service even during busy periods. Fresh salads and vegetables complement the main dishes. Great location creates a nice dining atmosphere.
Restaurant gets very busy which could impact wait times. Kids meals aren't displayed on the menu and must be specifically requested from staff, which may not be immediately obvious to families dining with children.
Reviews summarized from between Jun 2025 and Jun 2025
Summary of reviews from

Visitors consistently praise the exceptional coffee quality and knowledgeable baristas who create perfect drinks. The cozy atmosphere and comfortable seating make it ideal for work or relaxation. Fresh pastries and quality food offerings receive high marks from customers.
Some guests mention limited seating during peak hours and occasional slow service when busy. A few reviews note higher prices compared to chain coffee shops. Weekend crowds can make finding tables challenging for walk-in customers.

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