Stay North Slottsparken

‘Kontrast’ is not just a name at this sleek, fittingly stark restaurant in the city’s former industrial district; the concept informs everything they do, from the make-up of the international team to the smart combinations of ingredients in the dishes. A rich stew of superb langoustine claw meat, for example, is balanced by the fresh crunch and perfectly judged acidity of pickled carrot. While the dining area benefits from a softly lit intimacy, the open kitchen is brighter so that your eye is drawn to the supremely talented chefs.

Named after a classic Jacques Tati comedy, this intimate restaurant harks back to the founding era of French cuisine. The chefs wear toques and their classical training comes through in dishes like duck à l'orange with glazed turnips, carrots and kumquat confit. There is a pleasing level of refinement in the sauces – like a superb sauce marinière with razor clams royale – and everything is beautifully presented. An impressive French wine list accompanies the food.

Just 10 guests can fit around the counter at this intimate Japanese restaurant, where the chef pours his skill and knowledge of Japanese cuisine into serving an impressive omakase menu. Top quality Norwegian fish and shellfish are combined with traditional sushi techniques in a succession of dishes that lasts for over three hours – and wine, sake and juice pairings further enhance the experience. The room and the lighting are as beautiful as the food, so settle in for an enchanting evening and watch the time fly by.

Time seems to stand still at Maaemo, where a dramatic, high-ceilinged dining room comes with a theatrically lit open kitchen and a wool-draped wall made of offcuts from national folk costumes. The surprise tasting menu comprises a succession of expertly crafted, consistently memorable dishes that deliver sublime flavours and textures in superbly conceived combinations; maybe honey-glazed langoustine – grilled over embers – with hazelnuts and roasted garlic or dry-aged reindeer with blackcurrant and verbena. To finish, coffee and jewel-like petits fours are served in the speakeasy-style lounge.

Trondheim’s loss was Oslo’s gain when Credo relocated to a unique space in the contemporary wing of the National Library, an imposing 1914 building decorated with Emanuel Vigeland frescoes. Pioneering Chef Heidi Bjerkan leads the team and remains strong in her vision, viewing food as “a cultural expression” and advocating for healthy habits, environmental awareness and animal welfare. Her finely prepared dishes are as attractive as the surroundings, with top Norwegian produce including some terrific seafood and the latest produce to reach its peak – maybe the first of the season’s rhubarb or s

Start your evening with a walk around Frogner Park and its Vigeland sculptures, before heading for this elegant restaurant where the sumptuous, classical décor contrasts with the contemporary exterior. Service is a highlight, from the charming welcome and the well-judged wine recommendations to the cheerful presentation of the dishes – often brought to the table by the chef himself. Norwegian ingredients and French techniques come together in impeccably prepared, meticulously presented combinations such as skate wing from Ålesund with pickled radish and bouillabaisse sauce or Hovelsrud chicken

With its low-ceilinged intimacy and bright red décor, the cheekily named Bar Amour contains subtle throwbacks to the brothel that once occupied this space. In these unusual surroundings, an impressively well-run dining experience unfolds. The tasting menu blends superb, recognisably Norwegian produce, like skrei cod and reindeer, with influences from Chef Carlos De Medeiros’ native Portugal. Every dish arrives showcasing refined craft and a harmonious balancing of flavours. It's not that easy to find, hidden away on the first floor of the Tranen pizzeria and café.