Private room in shared Modern Apartment - Oslo Hideaway

‘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.

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.

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.

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.

As you enter this tiny restaurant inside a former stable block, you find yourself in the kitchen being greeted by the chefs; you can then eat in the same space whilst watching them at work, or request a table upstairs for a little more intimacy. The surprise menu evolves daily and has a playful touch, with the well-balanced dishes making great use of vegetables, herbs, flowers and fruits from their own garden.

A charming 17th-century house in the city’s heart plays host to these three elegant dining rooms, where chandeliers hang from wonderfully ornate stucco ceilings and an interesting array of antiques and curios are on display. Expertly rendered classical cooking uses seasonal ingredients in familiar combinations that are given a personal touch when it comes to the seasoning. Dishes could include seared halibut with spiced scallops or langoustine in a deliciously rich bisque. Top-notch service and a comprehensive wine list complete the picture.

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.