The vibrant city of Oslo offers a rich tapestry of culinary delights, and its Asian dining scene is no exception. Whether you crave the delicate art of sushi, the fiery flavors of Thai curries, or the comforting warmth of Chinese dim sum, the Norwegian capital presents an impressive variety of eateries. Exploring these venues not only provides an unforgettable experience but also showcases how local chefs reinterpret traditional techniques with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From sleek urban hangouts to cozy neighbourhood joints, Oslo’s Asian restaurants deliver an authentic taste of the East in a uniquely Scandinavian setting. Join us as we delve into some of the best spots for your next gastronomic adventure.
Sushi and Japanese Delights
The sushi culture in Oslo has evolved significantly over the past decade. Chefs trained in Japan and abroad have brought innovative methods while honouring time-honoured traditions. From minimalist counter dining to contemporary casual eateries, you’ll discover a broad spectrum of Japanese cuisine. Many establishments focus on sustainable seafood, ensuring each roll and sashimi platter not only tastes exquisite but is also responsibly sourced. Patrons can expect attentive service, thoughtfully curated drinks lists, and an elegant ambience that complements each bite.
Top Sushi Spots
- Sabi Sushi – Renowned for its modern take on nigiri and sashimi, Sabi Sushi blends Norwegian seafood with Japanese precision. The minimalist decor and open counter enhance the interactive dining experience.
- Døgnvill Sushi – This vibrant locale offers creative maki rolls filled with salmon, avocado, and crunchy toppings. Their signature “Oslo Roll” features local shrimp with a tangy yuzu mayo.
- The Kasbah – With a panoramic view of the harbour, The Kasbah serves sushi made to order on a sleek marble bar. Fresh uni, toro, and seasonal specialties make every visit memorable.
- MOMO – A chic spot combining robata-grilled skewers and sushi. MOMO’s vegetable tempura and miso-cured black cod are crowd favourites alongside their expertly crafted rolls.
Beyond classic sushi, many of these venues shine with signature appetizers such as agedashi tofu, chawanmushi, and house-made gyoza. Accompany your meal with premium sake, Japanese whisky, or a carefully selected wine list to complement the subtle umami notes of each dish.
Thai, Vietnamese, and Southeast Asian Flavors
Southeast Asian cuisine in Oslo captures the essence of bustling street markets and family-run eateries. The fragrant aroma of lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and chilies fills the air, inviting diners to sample a medley of curries, noodles, and soups. Many chefs have traveled extensively through Asia, bringing genuine recipes and techniques back to Oslo. Whether you prefer the creamy richness of a green curry or the tangy bite of a Vietnamese pho, you’ll find an array of options to satisfy any palate.
Thai Treasures
- Khao Thai – A local favourite for its vibrant red, green, and massaman curries. Fresh basil, galangal, and coconut milk come together in dishes that pack both heat and depth.
- Som Tam – Specializing in northeastern Thai street food, Som Tam’s papaya salad is a zesty delight. Try their crispy pork belly or grilled river prawns for added smokiness.
- Thai Foodiedeli – A contemporary bistro serving elegantly plated larb, tom yum goong, and pad see ew. Their homemade chili dips and fermented fish sauces add an extra layer of authenticity.
Vietnamese Gems
- Pho & Bun – A casual gem offering steaming bowls of pho, topped with rare beef slices, fresh herbs, and bean sprouts. Don’t miss their crispy spring rolls or banh mi sandwiches.
- Saigon Oslo – Set in a cosy side street, Saigon Oslo excels in Bún chả, rice vermicelli bowls with grilled pork patties, pickled vegetables, and sweet fish sauce.
- Dragonfly – Blending fusion and tradition, Dragonfly presents a tasting menu of Vietnamese tapas, including shrimp summer rolls and charred lemongrass chicken.
Signature drinks at these establishments often include Thai iced tea, pandan water rice, or handcrafted lemongrass-infused cocktails. The attentive staff will guide you through varying heat levels, ensuring each dish aligns with your spice preferences.
Chinese and Pan-Asian Eateries
Chinese cuisine in Oslo spans regional styles from Cantonese dim sum to Szechuan hot pots. Pan-Asian concepts further push boundaries, combining elements from Korea, Malaysia, and Japan into innovative tasting menus. These restaurants showcase communal dining, where sharing plates enhances the social aspect of eating. From steaming bamboo baskets to sizzling clay pots, the textures and aromas promise a multisensory feast.
Regional Chinese Specialities
- China Wok – More than your typical take-away, this restaurant elevates classics like sweet and sour pork, kung pao chicken, and mapo tofu using premium ingredients.
- Mandarin Palace – Known for its dim sum brunch, Mandarin Palace offers an impressive selection of dumplings, bao buns, and rice rolls served throughout the day.
- Szechuan House – A destination for fiery Szechuan cuisine, featuring tongue-numbing mala hot pot, spicy dan dan noodles, and crispy cumin lamb.
Innovative Pan-Asian Concepts
- Oslo East – Fusing Korean barbecue with Japanese robata, this trendy space lets diners grill marinated meats at the table while sampling bibimbap bowls and sushi tacos.
- Bento Box 69 – Their signature bento boxes combine miso-glazed salmon, Korean kimchi, and Thai curry into a single, beautifully arranged tray.
- Urban Lotus – A modern bistro offering tasting menus that weave together Malaysian laksa, Japanese wagyu, and Indonesian rendang, paired with natural wines.
Many of these restaurants also host special chef’s table events, sake pairing dinners, and themed nights highlighting a specific region. Reservations are recommended, especially during weekends when the city’s grub-seeking crowds fill every table.
Hidden Gems and Markets
For the adventurous foodie, Oslo’s markets and lesser-known stalls can reveal some of the city’s most vibrant tastes. Tucked away in side streets or food halls, these hidden spots offer authentic street-style bites at wallet-friendly prices. Ideal for casual lunches or late-night cravings, they capture the essence of Asia’s bustling hawker culture.
Markets to Explore
- Vippa Food Hall – Located on the waterfront, Vippa features rotating Asian pop-ups serving everything from spicy laksa to Malaysian roti canai.
- Mathallen – While known for local produce, Mathallen also hosts several Asian vendors offering sushi burritos, Vietnamese bahn mi, and Korean barbecue bowls.
- Youngstorget Street Eats – A weekend outdoor market where food trucks serve quick bites such as Taiwanese oyster omelette, Japanese takoyaki, and Thai mango sticky rice.
Venturing off the beaten path, you might uncover cozy hole-in-the-wall joints where the chef greets you at the counter. These unassuming venues often boast the most authentic recipes passed down through generations, providing an intimate glimpse into true gastronomic tradition. Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable journey through Oslo’s best Asian offerings.
