What to eat Norway? culinary specialties and gastronomy

Norwegian mealtimes differ from those in France. A good breakfast in the morning, lunch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., often a light meal. Dinner(middag) is served from 5pm. Most bars and restaurants are open every day and serve food outside these hours.

You should expect to pay at least €15 for a meal, even on the run. For something a little more elaborate, prices are around €25-35. Doggy bag available, even if no one else does! Very expensive alcohol. Unfortunately, it has become almost impossible to pay in cash... In some establishments, you order and pay directly at the counter.

Water and bread are served at the table free of charge. There is rarely bread to wait for, however.

Tipping. In hotels, restaurants and cafés, service is included, so there's no need to tip. It is, however, a good idea to round up the bill, but here again, it's up to you to judge according to the service you receive. Often, you'll be asked to add the tip directly when you pay at the credit card terminal.

Taxes. In Norway, prices are quoted inclusive of all taxes.

Children are welcome everywhere, and there's often a special menu for them, and sometimes even games. In restaurants, there are often chairs adapted for toddlers, and sometimes a special children's menu.

No smoking inside public spaces.

Most cafés open around 8am and close between 4pm and 6pm. Bars open from around noon until midnight or 1am.

Count €3 for a single coffee. Pints of beer start at €8. Happy hours are not common practice, but there are a few bars where they do exist.

To buy wine or beer in Norway, you must be at least 18. For alcohol, you must be at least 20. You must be at least 18 to order alcohol in a bar. You will frequently be asked for your ID.

You won't find alcohol (except beer and cider) in supermarkets. For this, go to the various Vinmonopolet stores, which close at 6 p.m. on weekdays and at 3 p.m. on Saturdays. You won't be able to buy beer or cider after 6pm in supermarkets, by the way.

Please note that it's essential to have your ID with you when you enter the Vinmonopolet, otherwise you'll be in serious trouble once you've passed through the checkout.

Norwegians don't drink much during the week... but at the weekend, you might be able to party with them. That's usually when they're most affordable!

Children are welcome everywhere, and there's usually no problem bringing them with you to a place that serves alcohol (of course, no alcohol will be served).

Smoking is prohibited in public places in Norway. On the terrace, you'll find Norwegians eating snus: small portions of moist tobacco powder placed under the lip... so no passive smoking!