Oslo, with its stunning fjords, lively harbor, and rich culinary scene, offers a variety of memorable dinner experiences. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood on a boat, a gourmet meal guided by a Michelin-starred chef, or a cultural city tour with a tasty Scandinavian lunch, Oslo has something for every taste and budget. We particularly like the Oslofjord Cruise with Seafood Dinner for its combination of scenic beauty and fresh Norwegian flavors, and the Oslo: City Tour with a Michelin-Starred Chef & Lunch/Dinner for a more intimate, high-end culinary adventure. These experiences showcase the city’s maritime charm and inventive cuisine, making them standouts for a memorable evening.
If you’re curious to explore these options, keep reading for our detailed breakdown of each tour. We’ll help you decide which suits your style—whether that’s relaxing on a boat, indulging in gourmet dishes, or enjoying Oslo’s cultural sights while enjoying a delicious meal.
1. Oslo: Oslofjord Cruise with Seafood Dinner
This 3-hour cruise offers a relaxing way to see the Oslofjord while enjoying a traditional Norwegian seafood dinner, with a focus on shrimp buffets. Embarking from Akershusstranda, this tour takes you on a scenic boat ride through the fjord, with open-air seating on a classic wooden sailboat that feels like stepping back in time. The cruise provides unobstructed views of rolling hills, summer cottages, bathhouses, and sometimes even seals basking on stones — perfect for snapping photos.
What makes this experience unique is the combination of scenic sailing and gourmet seafood served onboard. The meal is plentiful, with the crew ensuring everyone is comfortable and well-fed. The reviews highlight the warmth of the crew, the freshness of the seafood, and the added bonus of live singing during the trip. Rain or shine, the boat is maintained to a high standard and includes amenities like blankets and a restroom, making it an easy pick for a laid-back evening.
Bottom Line: This cruise is ideal if you want to combine natural beauty with authentic Norwegian cuisine in a relaxed setting. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone who enjoys being on the water.
2. Oslo Fjord 3 Course Dinner Sightseeing Cruise
At number 2, this 2.5-hour cruise offers a more intimate and refined experience with a three-course meal onboard. Boarding an electric boat, you’ll glide into the Oslo fjord during the evening, with stunning views of landmarks like Dyna Fir lighthouse and the Oslo skyline. The trip emphasizes local, sustainably-sourced ingredients, with dishes prepared by a trusted local partner.
The cruise’s standout feature is the quiet, environmentally friendly electric boat, which creates a peaceful atmosphere. Guests have praised the delicious Norwegian dishes, the stunning scenery, and the small group size that fosters a more personal experience. The lack of engine noise compared to traditional boats means you truly feel immersed in the fjord’s calm beauty. Reviews note that the ambiance is great for couples or small groups seeking a romantic or tranquil evening.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a luxurious, eco-conscious cruise with a focus on local cuisine and beautiful fjord views, this tour offers a refined and memorable experience.
3. Oslo Tour with a Michelin-Starred Chef & Lunch/Dinner
Positioned as a high-end, immersive experience, this 3-hour tour combines sightseeing with cuisine guided by a Michelin-starred chef. Starting at the Royal Palace, the tour visits key cultural sites like Oslo Cathedral, Parliament, and the National Theater, with stops for photos and insights into Norwegian history. The highlight is the culinary component, where the chef shares stories about Norwegian ingredients, culinary traditions, and modern interpretations.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized guidance by a chef with a Michelin-star background, making it more than just a city walk. The small group setting allows for engaging conversation and detailed explanations about the local food philosophy. The tour concludes with a lunch or dinner in a cozy, well-chosen restaurant. Guests report learning a lot about Oslo’s culture and food, with reviews emphasizing the knowledgeable guide and the delicious, thoughtfully prepared meal.
Bottom Line: Best suited for food lovers and culture enthusiasts who want a private, educational experience that deepens their understanding of Norwegian cuisine within the city’s historic ambiance.
4. Oslo: City Tour with Traditional Norwegian Lunch or Dinner
This 3.5-hour guided city walk explores Oslo’s top sights—from the Royal Palace to the Akershus Fortress—culminating in a traditional Norwegian meal at a local restaurant. Led by a professional guide, you learn about Norwegian royal history, architecture, and cultural landmarks while enjoying scenic views along the way.
The highlight is the Scandinavian lunch or dinner, often featuring classics like salmon, reindeer, or hearty stews, in an atmospheric old restaurant. The reviews point out how knowledgeable guides like Anders and Michael make the tour engaging and informative, with many mentioning that the meal is abundant and delicious. This tour is an excellent choice if you want a comprehensive city experience combined with a sit-down meal.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a structured city sightseeing combined with local cuisine, perfect for those who enjoy learning as they go and ending with a hearty, authentic meal.
5. Oslo: Fjord Dinner Cruise on Sailing Ship + Seafood Buffet
This 3-hour sailing ship cruise is a true Norwegian summer treat, combining the charm of a vintage sailing vessel with a seafood buffet dinner. Departing from Akershus, you’ll sail past Oslo’s skyline and coastline, with scenic views of landmarks and water reflections at sunset. The shrimp buffet is a main attraction, offering an authentic taste of Norwegian summer seafood traditions.
Guests rave about the traditional shrimp buffet and the relaxing atmosphere on the boat, which feels like a step back in time. The trip is perfect for those who want an outdoor, nautical experience with the bonus of stunning fjord views at sunset. It’s worth noting that the cruise starts and ends at the same location, making it convenient for travelers staying near the city.
Bottom Line: Best suited for seafood lovers and those wanting a classic Norwegian maritime experience with scenic water views and a delicious buffet.
How to Choose Your Perfect Dinner in Oslo
When selecting between these options, consider your budget, time, and interests. For a relaxing scenic cruise with seafood, the first or fifth options are ideal. If you prefer a more refined, eco-friendly experience, the second cruise stands out. Culture and foodies should look at the Michelin-guided tour, which offers a more intimate insight into Norwegian cuisine and heritage. For those seeking a full city tour with a meal included, the city sightseeing tour with lunch or dinner provides a balanced mix.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak summer months when these tours fill quickly. Think about your preferred setting—water or land—and whether you want a casual or gourmet experience. All of these tours offer a different taste of Oslo’s culinary scene, making it easier to find one that matches your travel style.
Final Thoughts
Oslo’s dinner options are as diverse as the city itself. From scenic fjord cruises with fresh seafood to luxurious guided culinary tours led by a Michelin-starred chef, there’s something for every appetite. If you’re after a straightforward water-based experience, the Oslofjord cruises provide stunning views and tasty bites, especially the shrimp buffets on the sailing ship or classic boat. For a more cultural and gourmet approach, the chef-guided tour offers engaging storytelling and unique insights.
For a relaxed, all-in-one experience, the city tour with a Norwegian meal is a great pick, offering a deep dive into Oslo’s history paired with a hearty local meal. Whichever you choose, booking early and considering your interests will ensure you enjoy an authentic Norwegian evening in Oslo.