Taste Norway’s Sustainable Fishing Legacy at The Salmon: Central Oslo’s Best Restaurant Experience

If there’s one thing Norway is globally famous for, it’s salmon. Norwegian salmon isn’t just a delicacy, it is a vital part of the nation’s economy, history, and culinary identity.

Nowhere is that more evident than in Oslo’s premier dining destination, The Salmon.

Nestled along the city’s contemporary waterfront, this sleek, modern restaurant is a must-visit for travelers craving sustainably sourced seafood in a stunning setting.

I recently had the pleasure of dining at The Salmon (June 2025), and from the moment I stepped inside, I knew this was going to be a special experience.

The Neighborhood: A Modern Waterfront with Deep Fishing Roots

The Salmon is located in one of Oslo’s most eye-catching waterfront neighborhoods.

This area is a fascinating blend of contemporary Nordic architecture and traditional maritime charm. Think glass-fronted apartment buildings, trendy coffee shops, and boats gently bobbing in the harbor.

The neighborhood feels like a fisherman’s paradise, with its proximity to the Oslofjord and the fresh, briny scent of the sea in the air. You’ll spot locals strolling the harbor promenades, fishing off docks, and dining al fresco at waterside eateries.

It’s a modern, cosmopolitan area that still pays homage to Norway’s proud fishing heritage.

Norway’s Salmon Legacy: A National Treasure

To truly appreciate The Salmon, it helps to understand how essential this fish is to Norway’s story. Norwegian salmon is a global export powerhouse, shipped to over 140 countries. The country’s cold, clear waters offer the perfect environment for raising healthy, sustainable Atlantic salmon.

Norway’s salmon farming industry dates back to the 1970s. Today, it contributes billions of dollars to the national economy, supporting thousands of jobs and setting global standards for sustainable aquaculture. In fact, Norwegian salmon is often held up as one of the most eco-friendly protein sources available.

The Salmon’s Cultural Center: A Living Classroom for Salmon Industry

At The Salmon, this heritage is celebrated not just on the plate, but through an attached cultural center where visitors can learn about the fishing industry’s history, the sustainability practices that protect Norway’s marine ecosystems, and the journey salmon takes from fjord to fork.

The Salmon Knowledge Center

Adjacent to the dining area, The Salmon’s knowledge center transforms the restaurant into more than a meal—it’s an immersive educational experience rooted in Norway’s maritime heritage. Founded by Nova Sea in collaboration with Petter Sandberg, the visionary behind Alex Sushi, this center is positioned as a gateway to understanding Atlantic salmon farming—and it delivers in style

Why It Matters

• Bridges sea to plate: Dining at The Salmon is enriched by the knowledge that guests have just seen how the fish are raised, handled, and smoked. A sustainable seafood meal suddenly takes on deeper significance.

• Accessible education: While coastal farm visits aren’t practical for most city dwellers or tourists, this center brings the full Norwegian salmon story to central Oslo—free of charge and open to all 

• Credibility and expertise: Backed by Nova Sea, Petter Sandberg, and academic partnerships with institutions like NMBU, the center offers authoritative and transparent insights 

  
  

The Salmon: A Restaurant, Cultural Hub, and Shopping Destination

What sets The Salmon apart isn’t just its food — it’s the entire experience. The restaurant doubles as a cultural center dedicated to Norwegian salmon, complete with interactive exhibits and educational installations.

It’s a beautiful way to connect with the story behind what’s on your plate.

Upon arrival, you’re handed a menu styled like a newspaper, filled with fascinating facts about Norway’s seafood industry, sustainability efforts, and the dishes you’re about to enjoy. It turns ordering a meal into a thoughtful, immersive experience.

Another unique touch is The Salmon’s boutique, where you can purchase salmon leather goods. Yes — salmon skin is transformed into luxuriously soft leather, crafted into wallets, keychains, and accessories. It’s a sustainable practice that makes use of every part of the fish and offers travelers a chic, ethical souvenir.

My Meal: A Celebration of Norwegian Seafood in Central Oslo

Now for the star of the show — the food.

I started with the Oyster Trilogy, featuring three different preparations of fresh, plump oysters. Each one was a delightful burst of the sea, with unique toppings

• Fiesta – oyster with jalapeño salsa

• Mignonette – oyster with shallot and red wine vinegar

• Kaki - oyster with salmon roe, chives and ponzu

The oysters were impeccably fresh, served on a bed of ice with a minimalist presentation that allowed their natural flavor to shine.

Next came The Salmon Trilogy, an absolute must-try if you visit. This dish showcases Norwegian salmon three ways:

Salmon Trilogy, The Salmon Oslo

• Cold smoked salmon

• Hot smoked salmon

• Cured salmon

Each preparation highlighted the versatility of this incredible fish, from its silky texture to its rich, buttery flavor.

The server was kind, directing me in which order to eat the salmon and the specific order to try them in.

I also couldn’t resist ordering salmon sashimi, which was every bit as fresh and vibrant as you’d expect from a restaurant mere meters from the water.

The thinly sliced salmon was paired with a simple soy dipping sauce and pickled ginger — proof that when the quality of the fish is this good, it doesn’t need much else.

Atmosphere in Central Oslo's Best Restaurant: Service at The Salmon

The service at The Salmon was outstanding. The staff were attentive without being intrusive, happy to explain the nuances of each dish and offer thoughtful wine pairings. There’s a warm, welcoming energy here that makes you feel like a cherished guest rather than just another table.

The decor is modern yet understated, with plenty of natural materials like wood and stone, plus floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the harbor. Watching boats drift by as you savor your meal is a uniquely Oslo experience you won’t soon forget.

A quick note for travelers: the kitchen closes at 9:30 PM, and the restaurant itself closes at 10 PM. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak summer months when Oslo’s waterfront dining scene is at its liveliest.

Final Thoughts: Why The Salmon is the Best Restaurant in Oslo

In a city filled with outstanding seafood spots, The Salmon stands out as the best restaurant in central Oslo. It’s more than a meal — it’s a journey through Norway’s culinary heritage, modern sustainability practices, and the unmatched beauty of fresh, responsibly sourced seafood.

Whether you’re a die-hard seafood lover or simply curious about the country’s world-renowned salmon industry, a visit to The Salmon is essential.

From the inventive Oyster and Salmon Trilogies to the cultural exhibits and sleek waterfront location, every detail is designed to celebrate Norway’s greatest culinary treasure.

If you are planning a day of sightseeing in Oslo, I recommend considering The Salmon as your evening dining destination. I recently featured it in my 12 Hours in Oslo itinerary, where it serves as the perfect conclusion to a day spent exploring the city’s museums, waterfront promenades, and cultural landmarks.

For those seeking a thoughtfully curated itinerary, you may find my comprehensive guide an excellent starting point.