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What to eat in Western Norway? Top 80 Traditional Foods in Western Norway

Last update: Wed Mar 5 2025
Top 80 Traditional Foods in Western Norway
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Best Western Norway Foods

01

Cheese

TORJULVÅGEN, Norway
4.1
Kraftkar
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Norway probably isn't the first country that comes to mind when we think about great cheese. However, that might change as Norwegian producer Tingvollost won the main prize and the title of the world's best cheese at the 2016 World Cheese Awards in San Sebastian, Spain for its blue cheese called Kraftkar.


More than a hundred judges assessed over 3,000 cheeses according to a number of qualities such as color, texture, and flavor before they came to the conclusion that Kraftkar is undoubtedly the champion. This blue cheese is produced from cow's milk from the family farm located in the village of Torjulvågen. 
02
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Skillingsboller is a traditional version of a cinnamon roll. This circular pastry is usually associated with Bergen. The rolls are made with a combination of flour, milk, yeast, eggs, sugar, cardamom, lots of butter, and chopped almonds (optional).


After the baking, skillingsbolle are brushed with additional butter on the top and the bottom while they are still hot. The top is also sprinkled with extra sugar and cinnamon. The name skillingsboller means penny bun. They're usually eaten as an afternoon snack with a cup of coffee on the side, but some people like to eat them with brown cheese (Brunost).

MOST ICONIC Skillingsboller

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03
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Bergensk fiskesuppe is a traditional fish soup originating from Bergen. Although there's an ongoing debate about what should be in the soup, it often contains pollock or salmon, pickled purslane, vegetables such as onions, carrots, leeks, and celery, sour cream, vinegar, salt, pepper, sugar, and traditionally, but rarely in practice - the bones of young saithe.


Alternatively, the bones of haddock or cod are also acceptable for making the fish stock. Fish balls are sometimes also added to the soup. Before serving, Bergen fish soup is topped with a dollop of sour cream. If desired, garnish the soup with chives and serve it with crusty bread on the side.

MOST ICONIC Bergensk fiskesuppe

04
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Reindeer hot dog is a Norwegian delicacy that can be found at Bergen's Trekroneren hot dog stand. The meat for the reindeer sausage comes from Northern Norway. The reindeer sausage is served in a hot dog bun and it's traditionally topped with mustard, lingonberry sauce, and crispy fried onions.


This hot dog is beloved for its mild, sweet and savory, not too spicy and not too gamey flavor. The sausages are generously sized and have a casing on the outside that gives them an appealing snap when bitten into it.

MOST ICONIC Norwegian Reindeer Hot Dog

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05

Cheese

VIK MUNICIPALITY, Norway
1.6
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Gamalost is a traditional cheese made from skimmed cow's milk. The cheese has a mold-ripened rind; its texture is dense, granular, and chewy, the aromas pungent, while the flavor is sharp. It's also rich in protein and has a fat content of only 0.5 to 1.0%.


The cheese is traditionally aged from 1 to 6 months. In order to make it, an acid is added to skim milk, causing it to sour. The fermented solids are then pressed into molds to create the circular shape. Later on, the cheese is hand-rubbed with mold and left to age. 
06
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Persetorsk is a traditional fish dish originating from Bergen. The dish is usually made with a combination of cod, sugar, salt, dill, bacon, and a sauce consisting of shallots, green peas, crème fraîche, vinegar, and dill. The cod is pressed for a long time in a solution of sugar and salt, and the fish is then cut into pieces and fried in bacon fat until the skin becomes crispy.


The fried pieces of cod are served on a plate and the sauce is poured over it. The dish is traditionally served with munavoi, a mixture of hard-boiled eggs and butter.

MOST ICONIC Persetorsk

1
07

Ground Meat Dish

ROGALAND COUNTY, Norway
n/a
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Farse refers to a Norwegian dish that consists of chopped or ground meat mixed with potato flour, milk powder and spices. A staple in the Jæren region (southern part of Rogaland county), this mixture is then fried and typically served in bread like a hamburger.


It's considered one of the most popular lunch dishes in Jæren and has a significant following, including the Norwegian footballer Erling Braut Haaland, who has expressed his fondness for the dish. Moreover, Farse is so ingrained in the local food culture that it is referred to as the "national dish" of Jæren, and the locals are quite proud of it.

08

Rye Bread

SUNNMØRE, Norway
n/a
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Sunnmørsbrød is a traditional bread originating from the district of Sunnmøre in the county of Møre og Romsdal. This typical hearty Norwegian bread is usually made with a combination of sugar, oil, maple syrup, salt, rye flour, whole wheat flour, oats, all-purpose flour, water, and yeast.


The dough is rolled out into loaves, left to rise, then brushed with butter and baked until the bread is crispy on the outside and soft and light on the inside. The top should have a dark brown color. The bread is typically eaten with butter or served with marinated Edam cheese known as marinert Edamerost.

09
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Klimpor fra Ryfylke are traditional Norwegian potato dumplings originating from Ryfylke. They're usually made with a combination of potatoes, flour, salt, sugar, and cinnamon. If desired, an egg can also be added to the mixture. The potatoes are boiled, mashed, and mixed with flour, salt, sugar, and cinnamon.


The mixture is shaped into small round or oblong dumplings that can be cooked in boiling salted water or milk. These small potato dumplings are often used in meat soups at weddings and banquets.

10

Saltwater Fish Dish

WESTERN NORWAY, Norway
3.1
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Plukkfisk is a traditional fish dish originating from Norway and it's especially popular in coastal settlements of Western Norway. The dish consists of potatoes, pieces of fish, and onions cooked in a bechamel sauce. Cod is traditionally used, but some people like to use pollock instead.


There are many variations on the dish, but it's usually made with a combination of cod, potatoes, onions, leeks, chives, butter, salt, white pepper, bacon slices, and bechamel sauce (butter, flour, milk, nutmeg, salt, and pepper). Once done, plukkfisk is often topped with crispy bacon, and the dish is served with a flatbread on the side. 
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Best Western Norway Food Producers

01

Spread

EIDFJORD, Norway
5.0
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Fjåk Chocolate, based in Norway, is renowned as the country’s first bean-to-bar chocolate maker. Founded by Agurtxane Concellon and Siv Hereid in 2015, the company began by experimenting with craft chocolate in a modest kitchen before officially launching in 2017.


Fjåk infuses its chocolate with local Nordic ingredients, such as sour cherries, reindeer lichen, and lingonberries, showcasing Norway's natural bounty. This approach is central to Fjåk’s identity, offering a distinctive Norwegian spin on traditional chocolate. 
AWARDS

International Chocolate Awards - Gold

2023, 2022

Academy of Chocolate - Gold

2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2018

International Chocolate Awards - Silver

2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018

02

Spirit

BLOMSTERDALEN, Norway
5.0
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Oss Craft Distillery is a Norwegian distillery renowned for its high-quality craft spirits, blending traditional methods with modern innovation. Located in Blomsterdalen, near Bergen, it draws inspiration from Norway’s natural landscapes and folklore.


Its flagship product, Bareksten Botanical Gin, features over 20 botanicals, capturing the essence of Nordic forests with flavors like juniper, elderflower, and blueberries. Founded by Stig Bareksten, the distillery emphasizes authenticity and craftsmanship in every bottle. 
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold

2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold

2019

The Gin Masters - Gold

2022

03

Cheese

TORJULVÅGEN, Norway
5.0
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Tingvollost is a cheese producer located in Torjulvågen, Norway, known for crafting the blue cheese Kraftkar, which won the title of the world's best cheese at the World Cheese Awards in 2016. The company utilizes milk sourced from a local herd of cows to produce its range of cheeses.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Gold

2023

Concours International de Lyon - Gold

2025

World Cheese Awards - Super Gold

2024, 2023

BEST Tingvollost Cheeses
04

Spirit

STRAUMGJERDE, Norway
5.0
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Brennevinsgrova is a Norwegian distillery located in a valley on the outskirts of Sykkylven, surrounded by the Sunnmørsalpene mountains. It was founded by Harald Strømmegjerde in 2019 on his family farm, inspired by the local environment and traditions.


The distillery produces gin, aquavit, and whiskey, using exclusively local ingredients. Raspberries from Valldal, sugar kelp from Herøy, and glacial water contribute to the unique flavor of their beverages, offering an authentic taste of Sunnmøre.


Brennevinsgrova has received numerous awards for the quality of its products, including recognition for the best gin in Norway. 
AWARDS

World Gin Awards - Country Winner

2024, 2022, 2021

European Spirits Challenge - Gold

2023

BEST Brennevinsgrova Spirits
05

Beer

HAUGESUND, Norway
5.0
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AWARDS

European Beer Star - Gold

2023

BEST Molo Brew Beers
06

Beer

STAVANGER, Norway
5.0
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AWARDS

Untappd - 4.5

BEST LERVIG Beers
07
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Feddie Ocean Distillery is an artisanal producer of whisky, gin, and aquavit, located on the island of Fedje, off Norway's west coast. Established in 2018, it stands out as Norway's only certified organic distillery, emphasizing sustainability and environmental responsibility.


The distillery was founded with a vision of creating world-class spirits and is notable for its unique ownership structure, being entirely owned by women. This initiative aims to challenge the traditionally male-dominated spirits industry and promote gender equality. 
AWARDS

European Spirits Challenge - Gold

2024

BEST Feddie Ocean Distillery Spirits
08

Cheese

LUNDEGREND, Norway
4.9
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Myrdal Gård is a small-scale cheese producer located in the Avaldsnes area on Karmøy island in Norway. The farm specializes in artisanal cheeses made from goat's milk, using traditional methods. Myrdal Gård offers a variety of products, including soft cheeses and aged varieties, and emphasizes sustainable farming practices.


The farm also provides educational tours and offers visitors a chance to experience the cheese-making process firsthand.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Gold

2024, 2023, 2022

BEST Myrdal Gård Cheeses
09

Cheese

STAVANGER, Norway
4.9
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Stavanger Ysteri AS is a cheese producer based in Stavanger, Norway, specializing in handcrafted cheeses made from local Norwegian milk. They focus on sustainable production methods and have a range of cheeses that includes both traditional Norwegian styles and new, innovative varieties.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Gold

2023

BEST Stavanger Ysteri Cheeses
10

Chocolate

SANDNES, Norway
4.5
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Xoco by Corina is a chocolate producer based in Sandnes, Norway. The company focuses on artisanal and handcrafted chocolates. Xoco by Corina sources high-quality ingredients to create a range of unique and flavorful chocolates. It offers products such as chocolate bars, pralines, and other confectioneries.
AWARDS

Academy of Chocolate - Bronze

2023

International Chocolate Awards - Bronze

2022

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Best Western Norway Food Products

01

Cheese

TORJULVÅGEN, Norway
5.0
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Kraftkar, a product made by Tingvollost, is a distinctive Norwegian blue cheese that has received international acclaim for its exceptional quality. Aged for 7 months, this robust cheese is known for its rich and creamy texture with blue veins running throughout, offering a balanced combination of sweetness and sharpness in its flavors.


Kraftkar has garnered substantial praise, notably winning the title of "World's Best Cheese" at the World Cheese Awards in 2016. This accolade highlights its superior craftsmanship and the meticulous aging process that enhances its unique, flavorful profile.
AWARDS

Concours International de Lyon - Gold

2025

World Cheese Awards - Super Gold

2024, 2023

02
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Fjåk Chocolate Vermouth Time is a unique chocolate that blends rich, artisanal chocolate with the herbal and botanical flavors of vermouth. It features a smooth texture and offers a sophisticated tasting experience, making it perfect for pairing with wine or enjoying as a refined dessert.
AWARDS

International Chocolate Awards - Gold

2023

International Chocolate Awards - ‘Best in competition' overall winners

2023

03
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Bareksten Botanical Aquavit is made from a potato-based spirit flavoured with classic aquavit botanicals such as cumin, fennel and aniseed. It is then rested for 24 months in ex-sherry Oloroso casks. The traditional drink aquavit is derived from the Latin aqua vitae, meaning water of life.


The first written mention of it in Norway dates back to 1531. The drink was used as a panacea for indigestion and was mainly served at Scandinavian celebrations and feasts.
AWARDS

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold

2019

London Spirits Competition - Gold

2024

04
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Cinnamon Roll by Fjåk Chocolate is a chocolate bar that combines rich, smooth chocolate with the warm, spiced flavor of cinnamon. Inspired by the traditional cinnamon roll pastry, this chocolate offers a blend of sweet and spicy notes, creating a comforting and indulgent treat.


The creamy texture of the chocolate enhances the cinnamon's flavor, making it perfect for those who enjoy a cozy and flavorful chocolate experience.
AWARDS

Academy of Chocolate - Gold

2023

05
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Fjåk Chocolate produces a 70% dark chocolate bar using cocoa beans sourced from the Dominican Republic. This chocolate bar showcases the rich and complex flavors characteristic of the region's high-quality cacao. The specific tasting notes and detailed flavor profile of this bar can include subtle hints of tropical fruits, nuts, and spices, which are typical of Dominican Republic cocoa beans.


Fjåk Chocolate is renowned for its commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability, ensuring that their products are not only delicious but also responsibly produced.
AWARDS

Academy of Chocolate - Gold

2022

06
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Fjåk Chocolate produces a product called 72% dark Guatemala. This dark chocolate bar is crafted using cacao beans sourced from Guatemala. The cacao content of the chocolate is 72%. Fjåk Chocolate is known for focusing on high-quality ingredients and ethical sourcing practices.
AWARDS

Academy of Chocolate - Gold

2022

07
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50% Milk Uganda is a chocolate product made by Fjåk Chocolate AS. Fjåk Chocolate is known for its commitment to quality and ethical sourcing of cacao beans. The 50% Milk Uganda bar combines rich cacao from Uganda with creamy milk to create a balanced and smooth flavor profile.


Fjåk Chocolate AS often emphasizes their bean-to-bar philosophy, ensuring that every step of the chocolate-making process is carefully overseen to maintain the highest standards.
AWARDS

Academy of Chocolate - Gold

2022

08
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60% dark & Nine Sisters gin is a chocolate product created by Fjåk Chocolate, a well-known craft chocolate maker based in Norway. This particular chocolate is notable for its rich dark chocolate made with 60% cacao content, offering a deep and intense cocoa flavor.


The chocolate is infused with Nine Sisters gin, which adds a unique and sophisticated botanical note, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
AWARDS

Academy of Chocolate - Gold

2021

09
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Fjåk Chocolate AS produces a unique chocolate product known as 50% milk & sourdough. This product is a fine blend of creamy milk chocolate and sourdough, giving it a distinctive taste that sets it apart from conventional milk chocolates. Fjåk Chocolate AS is known for its innovative approach to flavor combinations and its commitment to high-quality ingredients.
AWARDS

Academy of Chocolate - Gold

2020

10
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Bareksten Double Gin is a unique distillate that stands out for its quality and exclusive recipe. This gin is produced in Norway and is made through an artisanal distillation process using only the freshest and most natural ingredients. The blend of ingredients that make up this gin is perfectly balanced and consists of herbs, spices, flowers and citrus fruits.


Each component is carefully chosen and carefully crafted to ensure a perfect end result.
AWARDS

The Gin Masters - Master

2022

World Gin Awards - Country Winner

2021

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Beer
HAUGESUND, Norway
5.0
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Beer
STAVANGER, Norway
5.0
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Spirit
STRAUMGJERDE, Norway
5.0
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Cheese
LUNDEGREND, Norway
4.9
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Cheese
TORJULVÅGEN, Norway
4.9
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TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.