Oslo, Norway is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers a wide variety of international cuisine options. One of the most exciting trends in Oslo’s food scene is the growing popularity of Middle Eastern flavors. With its rich history and diverse population, Norway has always been home to a thriving Middle Eastern community. Today, this community is sharing its culinary traditions with the rest of the city through a variety of restaurants and cafes that serve delicious and authentic Middle Eastern dishes.
One of the most popular Middle Eastern dishes in Oslo is shawarma, which is a type of meat sandwich made from thinly sliced lamb or chicken that has been marinated in spices and grilled to perfection. Shawarma can be found all over Oslo, with many restaurants offering their own unique twists on the classic dish. Some popular variations include falafel shawarma, which is made with crispy fried chickpeas instead of meat, and vegetarian shawarma, which is a delicious option for those who prefer plant-based foods.
Another popular Middle Eastern dish in Oslo is hummus, which is a creamy spread made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. Hummus is often served as an appetizer or side dish, but it can also be used as a dip for vegetables or pita bread. Many Oslo restaurants offer a variety of hummus flavors, including traditional hummus, roasted red pepper hummus, and spicy jalapeno hummus.
In addition to these classic dishes, Oslo’s Middle Eastern food scene is also known for its delicious drinks. One popular beverage is arak, which is a type of anise-flavored liqueur that is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine. Arak can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with other ingredients to create a variety of cocktails. Another popular drink is kahveh, which is a type of coffee that is strong and sweet and often served with sugar or honey.
Overall, Oslo’s Middle Eastern food scene is a must-visit for anyone who loves international cuisine. With its delicious and authentic dishes, friendly atmosphere, and welcoming community, Oslo is the perfect place to experience the flavors of the Middle East. So why not give it a try?
Best Middle Eastern food restaurants to eat in Oslo, Norway
1. Al-Mahdi: This Middle Eastern restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Arabian cuisine in Oslo. The menu features a variety of dishes such as kebabs, shawarmas, and falafels, all made with fresh ingredients and traditional spices. One of the standout dishes at Al-Mahdi is the lamb shawarma, which is slow-roasted to perfection and served on a warm pita bread with pickles and tahini sauce.
2. Kismet: This cozy restaurant offers a range of traditional Middle Eastern dishes such as tabbouleh, hummus, and baba ghanoush. The highlight of the menu is undoubtedly the kafta, a spicy ground meat dish that is grilled to perfection and served with rice and pita bread. Kismet also offers an extensive selection of vegetarian options, making it a great choice for those who prefer plant-based meals.
3. Zara: This Oslo-based restaurant specializes in Lebanese cuisine and offers a variety of dishes such as falafels, hummus, and tabbouleh. One of the most popular dishes at Zara is the chicken shawarma, which is slow-roasted to perfection and served on a warm pita bread with pickles and tahini sauce. The restaurant also offers an extensive selection of wines and beers to complement your meal.
4. Amaranth: This Oslo-based restaurant is known for its unique blend of Middle Eastern and Scandinavian cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes such as lamb kebabs, falafels, and hummus, all made with fresh ingredients and traditional spices. One of the standout dishes at Amaranth is the lamb shawarma with pomegranate molasses and labneh, which adds a sweet and tangy twist to the classic dish.
5. Istanbul: This Oslo-based restaurant offers a range of traditional Turkish dishes such as baklava, kebabs, and falafels. The highlight of the menu is undoubtedly the lamb kebab, which is slow-roasted to perfection and served with rice, pita bread, and a variety of sauces such as tahini and harissa. Istanbul also offers an extensive selection of wines and beers to complement your meal.
Take a trip to Oslo, Norway with our special fares
Visit Oslo, Norway with our special fares
Oslo, the capital of Norway, is a city that offers a unique dining experience to tourists. From traditional Norwegian cuisine to international flavors, Oslo’s food and drink scene is diverse and exciting. Here are some reasons why this city is a great tourist attraction for food and drinks:
1. Fresh seafood: Norway is surrounded by the North Sea, which means that fresh seafood is readily available in Oslo. From salmon to shrimp, mussels to crab, you can find it all here. Try some of the local dishes such as Gravadlax (smoked salmon), Rakfisk (fermented fish) and Surströmming (herring).
2. Viking beer: Oslo is home to several breweries that offer traditional Norwegian beers, including those inspired by the Vikings. These beers are made using traditional methods and ingredients, making for a truly authentic experience.
3. Scandinavian cuisine: Oslo’s restaurants offer a variety of Scandinavian dishes, such as reindeer stew, pickled herring, and rye bread. The city is also known for its bakeries, where you can find delicious pastries and desserts made with local ingredients.
4. International cuisine: Oslo’s food scene is not limited to Norwegian cuisine. You can find restaurants serving dishes from all over the world, including Italian, Mexican, Chinese, and Indian. This makes it easy for tourists to try new and exciting flavors.
5. Coffee culture: Norway has a strong coffee culture, and Oslo is no exception. The city is home to several cafes and coffee shops where you can enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in the sights and sounds of the city.
Overall, Oslo’s food and drink scene offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for traditional Norwegian cuisine or international flavors, this city has it all. So why not plan your next trip to Oslo and indulge in some of the best food and drinks that Norway has to offer?