Where to Eat in Bergen, Norway
Bergen, Norway's charming coastal city, offers more than just stunning fjord views and colorful wooden houses. During my recent mother-daughter trip to this UNESCO World Heritage city, we discovered some incredible dining gems that transformed our culinary expectations. From authentic Greek flavors to exceptional Italian cuisine, Bergen's restaurant scene surprised us at every turn.
After six nights of exploring the "Gateway to the Fjords," I'm sharing three restaurants that made our trip unforgettable. These spots showcase Bergen's diverse food culture and prove that great meals create the best travel memories.
Where to Eat in Bergen
Bergen's dining scene reflects its status as an international port city. The restaurants we discovered during our stay offered everything from Mediterranean classics to Latin American fusion. Each meal became a highlight of our trip, proving that Bergen deserves recognition as a serious food destination.
Here are the three restaurants that stood out during our Norwegian adventure.
Taste of Greece
Sometimes the best meals come from the most unexpected places. Taste of Greece operates as a food truck positioned just outside Bergen's famous fish market, but don't let its humble setup fool you. This little operation serves what might be the best Greek food outside of Greece itself.
We grabbed our order and settled into the small patio chairs set up nearby, watching the bustling fish market activity while enjoying our meal. The feta cheese was absolutely unbelievable—creamy, tangy, and clearly made with exceptional quality ingredients. Every bite transported us straight to the Greek islands.
The portions were generous, the prices reasonable, and the authenticity undeniable. The owners clearly take pride in their traditional recipes, and it shows in every dish. After trying Greek restaurants across Europe, we were amazed to find such quality in a Bergen food truck.
If you're exploring the fish market area, don't walk past this unassuming truck. The combination of fresh ingredients, traditional preparation, and waterfront atmosphere creates a dining experience that rivals any sit-down restaurant in the city.
Olivia's
Olivia's became the undisputed highlight of our entire Bergen culinary adventure. This Italian restaurant exceeded every expectation we had, delivering what we both agreed was the best meal of our trip.
We visited the city center location, though Olivia's also operates a waterfront spot near the fish market. The city center restaurant offers a more intimate atmosphere, perfect for our mother-daughter bonding time. The interior strikes the perfect balance between casual and elegant, making it comfortable for both quick lunches and special dinners.
The menu showcases classic Italian dishes prepared with Norwegian attention to detail. Fresh pasta, perfectly seasoned sauces, and high-quality ingredients come together to create memorable meals. The service matched the food quality—attentive without being intrusive, knowledgeable about wine pairings, and genuinely passionate about the cuisine.
What impressed us most was how every dish felt carefully crafted rather than mass-produced. The kitchen clearly prioritizes quality over quantity, resulting in plates that look as good as they taste. The wine selection complemented the menu perfectly, featuring both Italian classics and interesting Norwegian options.
Reservations are strongly encouraged, especially during peak tourist season. Bergen attracts visitors year-round, and Olivia's popularity means tables fill up quickly. We learned this lesson after walking by several times and seeing full dining rooms.
Cartel's Latin American Kitchen & Bar
Our final must-visit recommendation brought exciting Latin American flavors to Bergen's dining scene. Cartel's Latin American Kitchen & Bar offers a vibrant atmosphere that immediately transports you from Norway's cool climate to warmer, more tropical destinations.
The restaurant's energy is infectious. Colorful décor, upbeat music, and friendly staff create an environment perfect for celebrating. We felt the festive spirit the moment we walked through the door, making it an ideal spot for special occasions or simply when you want dinner to feel like a party.
While the entire menu impressed us, the brownie dessert deserves special mention. Rich, decadent, and perfectly portioned, it provided the perfect ending to our meal. The combination of traditional Latin American dessert techniques with high-quality ingredients created something truly special.
The cocktail menu deserves equal praise. Creative combinations and premium spirits make Cartel's an excellent choice for drinks, whether accompanying dinner or just enjoying Bergen's nightlife. The bartenders clearly understand their craft, presenting drinks that taste as good as they look.
Making the Most of Bergen's Food Scene
Bergen proves that exceptional dining experiences can be found in unexpected places. From food trucks to fine dining, the city's restaurants reflect its international character while maintaining Norwegian standards for quality and service. These three spots made our trip memorable and will definitely draw us back to Bergen in the future.
