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The Nordic Nomad

Oslo, Norway

The 22 best spots in Oslo’s Grünerløkka neighbourhood

The Nordics • Insider guides • The 22 best spots in Oslo’s Grünerløkka neighbourhood

Where to stay, eat, shop and play in Grünerløkka

Grünerløkka, a quick hop from central Oslo, pulsates with unmatched urban vibrancy. Street art transforms this neighbourhood into a living canvas, echoing the creative spirit of New York’s Williamsburg. Trendy cafes and eclectic boutiques line the streets, buzzing with the energy of students, artists and families. This former working-class district, locared by the scenic Akerselva River, has reinvented itself as the epitome of urban cool. Every alley and corner brims with historical charm and contemporary flair, making Grünerløkka a beacon of Oslo’s dynamic transformation and a must-visit for anyone seeking the city’s most audacious and spirited experience. Here’s the full guide.

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Stay

Frogner House Grünerløkka

Smack in the middle of Grünerløkka, we find Frogner House Grünerløkka embodies a unique blend of historical charm and modern convenience. Set within a building that whispers tales from the 1870s, thoughtfully renovated to marry the original architectural beauty with contemporary design, we feel this accommodation strikes a perfect chord of bright and spacious apartments. Its tranquil location, featuring a large communal terrace, feels like a serene oasis amid one of Oslo’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. Offering 25 varied apartments, from cosy one-bedrooms to expansive three-bedrooms, Frogner House seems tailor-made for both fleeting visits and lengthier sojourns. Its central position ensures guests are perfectly placed to dive into the youthful, energetic atmosphere of Grünerløkka, surrounded by an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants and bars. For those keen to explore Grünerløkka’s lively streets, Frogner House Grünerløkka stands as an unparalleled choice.

Frogner House Grünerløkka
Helgesens gate 1
Oslo
Norway

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Photography courtesy of Frogner House

Eat & drink

Grød

Grød, the Danish porridge bar founded by Lasse Skjønning Andersen, has arrived in Oslo’s Grünerløkka, bringing its signature take on wholesome grains to a city where porridge is firmly on everyone’s lips. Designed by Omhu, the interior blends warm terracotta floors, golden wood tones and exposed brick, with Frama’s oak communal tables and Hay’s Bruno Rey chairs encouraging shared dining. The open kitchen, finished with dark green Moroccan tiles and stainless steel, reflects Grød’s focus on simple, honest ingredients.

Grød
Markveien 67
Olso
Norway

Photography courtesy of Grød

Ice Crime

Discover the innovative world of ice cream at Ice Crime, where over 200 unique flavours, from pistachio to vegan vanilla coconut, await. What started as a pop-up has now cemented its place in Oslo with a menu that creatively pairs waffles and ice cream, thanks to its 2019 partnership with Haralds Vaffel. While the service might lack a bit of enthusiasm, the modern and quirky decor, along with the imaginative menu, sets it apart as a highlight in Oslo’s dessert landscape.

Ice Crime
Olaf Ryes plass 3
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of Ice Crime

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Kontrast

Dive into the harmonious blend of Scandinavian and European cuisines at Kontrast, Oslo’s Michelin-starred jewel. Chef Mikael Svensson’s culinary prowess, honed in Spain’s top kitchens, shines through in a menu that celebrates organic, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s semi-industrial charm, a mix of concrete, wood and steel, adds to the allure, while the ever-changing seasonal menu promises a new adventure with every visit.

Kontrast
Maridalsveien 15A
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of Kontrast

Kuro

Opened in 2022, Kuro specialty coffee shop shares its space with the F5 concept store, known for promoting Norwegian fashion. Kuro’s menu, simple yet inviting, features a variety of delicious coffee options, including espresso-based and hand-brewed selections, complemented by an assortment of baked goods. The café’s ambience is characterized by its calm setting in a vibrant neighbourhood, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful coffee break. Kuro’s integration with a fashion store adds a unique dimension to the café experience, blending the worlds of style and coffee in a single location.

Kuro
Rathkes gate 9
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of kuro

Mathallen Oslo

Explore the rich diversity of global cuisine in the industrial elegance of Mathallen Oslo. Housed in a renovated warehouse, this market features over thirty stalls, ranging from Norwegian cheeses to international culinary treasures. The vibrant mix of locals and tourists adds to the bustling atmosphere, with highlights like local cheeses and Hopyard’s craft beers enhancing the experience.

Mathallen Oslo
Vulkan 5
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of Mathallen Oslo

Nedre Foss Gård

Nedre Foss Gård, a culinary sanctuary in Oslo, marries traditional elegance with contemporary style. Crafted by Anderssen & Voll, its design is both classic and modern. The menu is varied, offering dishes like exquisite turbot, and while the desserts are slightly sweet, they are nonetheless satisfying. With an outdoor seating area overlooking a serene park and an interior that echoes the building’s old-world charm, it’s a place where food, brewery and wine bar come together for a memorable dining experience.

Nedre Foss Gård
Nordre gate 2
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of Nedre Foss Gård

Skaal Matbar

In the heart of Grünerløkka overlooking Olaf Ryes Plass, Skaal Matbar thrives as an eclectic neighbourhood haunt blending a bar’s spirit with gourmet offerings. Championing seasonality, they craft global small dishes with an eco-conscious slant, starring their layered potato fries complemented by crème fraîche and dill oil, and a zesty grilled cheese merging cheddar with jalapeños. The ambience? An informal, square bar where conversations flow as smoothly as their eclectic natural wines from Gut Oggau to Christian Tschida. No reservations, no menu online; it’s a spontaneous gem. While the sun-drenched exterior invites, inside, the groove oscillates between Kaizers Orchestra and Arctic Monkeys. A genuine Grünerløkka gem.

Skaal Matbar
Olaf Ryes plass 12
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of Skaal Matbar

Supreme Roastworks

Supreme Roastworks, a paradise for coffee lovers, was founded in 2013 by world-champion brewer Odd-Steinar Tøllefsen and his partners. Known for its dedication to high-quality, ethically sourced coffee, it offers a range of beans from South America to Africa. The café’s laid-back and welcoming atmosphere is a hit with both coffee experts and casual visitors, offering a modern space to enjoy a variety of coffee preparations and pastries.

Supreme Roastworks
Thorvald Meyers gate 18
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of Supreme Roastworks

Territoriet

Step into Territoriet, a cosy wine bar boasting nearly 400 wine choices, from everyday Cava to luxurious Bordeaux. Beyond wine, it offers 18 unique gin and tonic variations, each with its own story. Complementing the drink selection are delicious food options like ham and cheese platters and seasonal toasts, making it a go-to destination for wine enthusiasts.

Territoriet
Markveien 58
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of Territoriet

The Little Pickle

The Little Pickle offers a refreshing twist on British cuisine. Inspired by London eateries like St. John and The Laughing Heart, this restaurant focuses on large sharing plates and small dishes, emphasizing good, honest cooking with local, organic produce. A standout feature is their Sunday roast dinner, a hearty British fare featuring roasted meat, potatoes, cabbage, pickles, gravy, stuffing and Yorkshire pudding. On other days, the menu includes whole fish and larger meat cuts cooked over an open fire, along with various terrines, pâtés and British puddings for dessert. The wine list, though compact, features selections from natural producers.

The Little Pickle
Jens Bjelkes gate 9a
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of The Little Pickle

Tim Wendelboe

Experience coffee perfection at Tim Wendelboe’s café, run by the World Barista Champion himself. Here, coffee is an art form, served without the distraction of a food menu. Each cup is a testament to Tim’s commitment to quality and sustainable sourcing, in a minimalist interior that puts the spotlight on coffee. Expect a queue, but the wait leads to exceptional brews and insightful baristas.

Tim Wendelboe
Grünersgate 1
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of Tim Wendelboe

Txotx

Txotx is an authentic Basque pintxos bar. Head Chef Mats Vaulen leads the kitchen, creating bite-sized pintxos served on skewers, typical of Basque country cuisine. The menu features local ham, cheese, octopus and sardines, among other ingredients. Each pintxo is a delight of one or two bites, reflecting the culture of socialising with friends over small snacks and wine. The ambience of Txotx, with its Basque colour schemes and traditional garments, adds to the authenticity. It’s a taste of Basque country’s bar-hopping tradition in the heart of Oslo, perfect for experiencing varied flavours in a lively, social setting.

Txotx
Trondheimsveien 2
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of Txotx

Villa Paradiso

Step into Villa Paradiso, a cosy corner of Italy in Oslo, where you’re not just a customer, but a guest at an Italian family table. Known affectionately for its authentic pizzas that capture the true spirit of Italy, the restaurant warmly welcomes everyone with options for vegetarian and gluten-free diners. While it’s true that sometimes the portions might leave you wanting more, and you might need a bit of patience for the service, the atmosphere more than compensates. It’s like stepping into a lively trattoria in Naples, where the buzz of conversation and the aroma of freshly baked pizza create an experience that’s not just about food, but about feeling at home.

Villa Paradiso
Olaf Ryes plass 8
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of Villa Paradiso

Shop

Blomsterista

Blomsterista, a family-operated floral boutique, adds a vibrant touch to Grünerløkka, a neighbourhood in Oslo not typically noted for its beauty. Established by Mahmut Aydin, this florist stands out for its bespoke floral services. Specialising in custom bouquet design, Blomsterista caters to personal tastes and preferences, offering a rich selection of green plants and flower arrangements.

Blomsterista
Olaf Ryes plass 7
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of blomsterista

Dapper

In the heart of Grünerløkka, Oslo, Dapper presents itself as a stylish haven for the discerning gentleman. This independently owned, multi-brand concept store specialises in high-quality menswear, accessories and grooming products, reflecting the founder’s commitment to excellence in both quality and design. Beyond fashion, Dapper enriches the local lifestyle scene with its café and bar, making it a holistic destination if you’re into sophisticated craftsmanship and contemporary style.

Dapper<br
Nordre gate 20
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of Dapper

Ensemble

Ensemble in Grünerløkka epitomises the harmony between creativity, timelessness and functionality. It has established itself as a purveyor of aesthetic finesse, offering a curated collection that spans clothing, accessories and grooming products. The store prides itself on showcasing an eclectic mix of items that cater to a discerning clientele, including a diverse range of brands such as Róhe, Skall Studio and Maria Black. We feel that Ensemble’s presence in the lively Grünerløkka district adds to the locale’s reputation as a hub for innovative and independent retail experiences.

Ensemble
Norde gate 13
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of ensemble

F5

The F5 concept store is an independent, family-run gem that champions the essence of Norwegian design. Showcasing the finest in local fashion, home objects and lifestyle products, F5 offers a unique collection that includes its own designs along with pieces from 20 different brands. The store is a celebration of creativity and craftsmanship, inviting both locals and visitors to explore a diverse range of womenswear, menswear, shoes and accessories.

F5
Rathkes gate 9
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of F5

Holzweiler Collage

Holzweiler Collage represents a unique blend of sustainability, fashion innovation and artistic expression. This archive store by Norwegian cult brand Holzweiler stands out for its commitment to sustainability, with 90% of its interiors crafted from materials reused from previous Holzweiler projects. Explore never-before-sold showpieces, upcycled garments and pieces from past collections. Holzweiler Collage is a narrative space where fashion, art and sustainability intertwine according to a forward-thinking ethos.

Holzweiler Collage
Grüners gate 9
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of Holzweiler Collage

Kollekted By

Kollekted By is a creation by the visionary stylist duo Kråkvik & D’Orazio. This concept store serves as a treasure trove for those passionate about design, offering a meticulously selected range of furniture, lighting and home goods. Each piece tells a story of craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal, sourced from around the globe. Kollekted By stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful curation, blending international design with local sensibilities in a space that invites exploration and inspiration.

Kollekted By
Schous Plass 7A
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of Kollekted By

See & do

Akerselva

Akerselva River, a vital artery of Oslo, meanders through Grünerløkka and offers a picturesque escape amidst the urban landscape. This river has powered industry since the 19th century and now serves as a peaceful trail for walkers and cyclists. Along its banks, one discovers a blend of natural beauty, historical mills and vibrant cultural life. It’s a place where Oslo’s industrial past and creative present meet, making it a favourite spot for both locals and visitors looking for leisure and inspiration in the city’s heart. Just drop down in the grass along the river and get chatting with the locals.

Atelier Nord

Atelier Nord, located in the dynamic district of Grünerløkka in Oslo, serves as a hub of innovation for media art. Originally established in 1965 by Anne Breivik and Reidar Rudjord as a printmaking workshop, it has evolved to focus on presenting and supporting media art in all its forms. Over the years, Atelier Nord has expanded its presence with a gallery space in Grünerløkka, enhancing its role in Oslo’s art community. This shift from a workshop dedicated to electronic arts to a platform for contemporary and media art underlines Atelier Nord’s flexibility and dedication to promoting artistic innovation.

Atelier Nord
Olaf Ryes plass 2
Oslo
Norway

Photography courtesy of Tor S. Ulstein

Parkteatret

Parkteatret has a storied past that traces back to 1907, initially serving as a cinema under the name Kristiania Bryggeri Grünerløkkens Kinematograf. Recognised as a significant cultural heritage site, it underwent several transformations, including architectural redesigns in the neoclassical style and interior revamps to become the multifaceted venue it is today. Now, it hosts an array of concerts and events, supported by a 1960s-inspired bar renowned for its cocktails and craft beers.