Bergen, Norway

Frescohallen

The Nordics • Eat & drink • Frescohallen in Bergen, Norway

What’s the restaurant in a nutshell?

In the heart of Bergen, the ‘City of the Seven Mountains’, the captivating Frescohallen offers more than just a dining experience; it offers history and art on a silver platter. Housed in the historical Bergen Børs building, once Norway’s sole stock exchange, this restaurant, part of the Bergen Børs Hotel, stands as an architectural marvel designed by Swedish studio Claesson Koivisto Rune. The captivating allure of Frescohallen isn’t just in its rich past, but in its interiors, where walls come alive with frescoes by the Norwegian artist Axel Revold, painted in the early 1920s. Guests are surrounded by the breathtaking artwork ‘Varebytte’, which chronicles pivotal moments in Bergen’s trade history.

What are the signature dishes?

Drawing inspiration from Bergen’s coastal heritage, Frescohallen’s menu seamlessly melds local produce with an international touch. Yngve Hansen, the driving force behind the brand, takes particular pride in the freshness of their offerings. Picture indulging in a luxurious lobster pasta or a sumptuous salmon dish from Sotra, with the assurance that each seafood bite has been freshly sourced from sea to plate. The menu also boasts delights such as beef tartare enhanced with Worcestershire sauce, pan-roasted scallops crowned with Baerii caviar and Josper-grilled entrecôte. For those with a sweet tooth, a classic crème brûlée or a chocolate fondant with salted caramel await.

Drinks, anyone?

At Frescohallen, beverages aren’t just an afterthought – they’re an integral part of the dining journey. The restaurant offers an assortment of drinks to please every palate, from the wine enthusiast to the cocktail connoisseur. But beyond just the drink in your hand, the establishment prides itself on the experience it offers. Curious patrons can immerse themselves in gin-tasting sessions led by the renowned Stig Bareksten or embark on a cocktail safari, learning the art and science of mixology.

What’s the city like?

Nestled between the peaks of seven surrounding mountains and Norway’s west coast in the Vestland region, Bergen captivates with its natural beauty and urban charm. The UNESCO-listed Bryggen district showcases vibrant wooden buildings, while the city serves as a gateway to breathtaking fjords. Bergen enchants art and design enthusiasts with its street art, contemporary architecture, and cultural landmarks like the Edvard Grieg Museum and KODE Art Museums. With a rich maritime history and dynamic food scene, Bergen offers an unforgettable journey into Norway’s scenic splendour.