Top 4 Places to Eat in Stavanger

Written by Elsa Holm, Graham Smith, Julien Lambert
05/09/2025
Tourists enjoy the breathtaking view from the famous Preikestolen cliff in Norway.
Tiana, Pexels

Stavanger's culinary landscape is a dynamic blend of high-end dining, featuring Michelin-starred establishments with a focus on hyper-local ingredients, and a vibrant casual scene offering diverse international flavors and fresh seafood.

1. RE-NAA

Cuisine: New Nordic Fine Dining

Experience a culinary journey at this three-Michelin-starred restaurant, where a passionate team presents an intimate tasting menu of approximately 25 exquisite servings. The focus is on the purest flavors derived from premium local products, meticulously sourced from the sea, fjords, land, forests, and mountains. Each dish is an imaginative plating, showcasing exceptional skill and refined balance.

Price: High-end (approx. 2000-3000 NOK / $190-$280+ USD per person for the tasting menu, excluding wine pairing)

Getting There: Located at Nordbøgata 8, within the Eilert Smith Hotel, it is centrally situated and easily accessible on foot from most downtown accommodations.

2. Fisketorget

Cuisine: Fresh Seafood, Traditional Norwegian

Situated directly by the bustling harbor, Fisketorget operates as both a fish market and a restaurant, guaranteeing the freshest catch—nothing is kept longer than two days. Guests can enjoy Norwegian comfort food like their renowned hearty fish soup (fiskesuppe) or delicious prawn sandwiches. The atmosphere is cozy and informal, with scenic views of the inlet, offering an authentic taste of Stavanger's maritime heritage.

Price: Mid-range (Main dishes typically 200-400 NOK / $19-$38 USD per person)

Getting There: Found at Strandkaien 37, right in the heart of the city center by the Vågen harbor, it is conveniently walkable from major attractions.

3. Fortou

Cuisine: Street Food, International Fusion

This lively spot on the east side of Stavanger is a local favorite for its diverse and affordable street food. The menu features an eclectic mix, including crunchy tostadas, Vietnamese banh mis, falafel bowls with quinoa and avocado, and even a popular fish and chips dish. Though primarily a takeaway, there's limited seating available for those who wish to enjoy their meal on-site.

Price: Cheap Eats (Most dishes under 150 NOK / $14 USD)

Getting There: Located on the east side of Stavanger, near the old Tou brewery. It is a short walk or a quick bus ride from the city center, and often paired with a visit to the adjacent ØST bar.

4. Gådjå Ethiopian Restaurant

Cuisine: Ethiopian

Gådjå offers an authentic Ethiopian dining experience, ideal for those seeking unique flavors and a communal meal. The family-run establishment proudly serves traditional dishes, rich with spices like mitmita and berber, accompanied by injera, a sourdough flatbread used for scooping up food. It's a fantastic choice for both vegans and meat-eaters, providing a truly human culinary interaction as dishes are eaten by hand.

Price: Mid-range (Portion sizes are generous, with good value for money)

Getting There: Found on Pedersgata, known as one of Stavanger's most interesting food streets, it is within easy walking distance of the city center.

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