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Vaaghals is praised for its innovative Norwegian cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. However, some patrons have noted issues with portion sizes and service speed.

Explore Vaaghals, a Distinctive Culinary Gem in Oslo's Heart 

Nestled in the vibrant Gamle Oslo neighborhood at Dronning Eufemias gate 8, Vaaghals offers food lovers an authentic taste of Norwegian innovation fused with contemporary flair. Known for its commitment to local ingredients and creative use of whole animal parts, this restaurant promises an intriguing culinary journey for adventurous palates. Whether you're a foodie, a digital nomad seeking inspiring dining spots, or a trend-conscious traveler, Vaaghals’s unique vibe and calm, professional environment invite you to indulge in an exceptional feast.

Distinctive Dining Experience and Menu Highlights

Vaaghals offers an impressive 8-course tasting menu that showcases the best of Norwegian flavors with a modern twist. Diners rave about standout dishes like the sharp and warming soup paired with delicate brioche, and the reindeer tartar served on a sweet potato waffle that perfectly highlights local game. The open kitchen design enhances the experience, allowing guests to watch chefs craft each plate with expert precision. Vegetarian and gluten-free options, including bread and cider, ensure diverse dietary preferences are thoughtfully accommodated.

Atmosphere, Service, and Practical Details

Set near the iconic Oslo Opera House and close to the main train station, Vaaghals boasts a prime location with paid garage and street parking options. The ambiance is a blend of relaxed sophistication and welcoming warmth, enhanced by attentive staff who often provide personalized recommendations. While the restaurant does not serve breakfast, it offers brunch, lunch, and dinner services, alongside a well-curated wine list and a variety of cocktails. Outdoor seating is available, perfect for soaking in Oslo's lively street scenes on warmer days.

 including bread and cider are available.

Vaaghals enjoys a mixed but largely positive reputation among locals and visitors alike. Guests appreciate the innovative approach to Norwegian cuisine and the warm atmosphere. However, some have pointed out that portion sizes can be generous yet oddly balanced across courses, and service pace may vary. Despite these nuances, the overall commitment to quality ingredients and a memorable dining experience keeps patrons returning. For a truly special meal with exceptional wine pairings and refined flavors, Vaaghals stands out as a must-visit destination in Oslo.

Frequently Asked Questions about Vaaghals

What are the operating hours of Vaaghals?

 Vaaghals operates lunch service from Tuesday to Friday, 11:00 to 16:00, with the last reservation at 14:15. Saturday brunch runs from 11:00 to 16:00, last reservation at 14:00. Dinner is served Monday to Saturday from 17:00 to 24:00, with last reservations at 21:15. The restaurant is closed on Sundays.

Is Vaaghals accessible for people with disabilities?

 Yes, Vaaghals is wheelchair accessible, ensuring a comfortable dining experience for all guests.

 Yes, the restaurant provides gluten-free options including specially made bread and cider.

Europe

Norway

Nestled in the heart of Oslo, **Vaaghals** is a culinary gem that captures the essence of Norwegian cuisine with a modern twist. Located at Dronning Eufemias gate 8, this vibrant restaurant offers a unique dining experience that combines local ingredients with innovative cooking techniques. The open kitchen concept allows diners to witness the artistry of the chefs as they prepare exquisite dishes, creating an atmosphere that is both lively and inviting.

The menu at Vaaghals is a celebration of seasonal produce, showcasing dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. One standout dish is the **Reindeer Tartar on Sweet Potato Waffle**, which features tender reindeer meat served atop a subtly sweet waffle, garnished with hazelnuts and roe. This dish not only highlights local flavors but also pays homage to traditional Norwegian ingredients.

 Another must-try is the **Halibut & Celeriac**, where perfectly cooked halibut is paired with a creamy chicken stock immersion sauce, creating a dish that melts in your mouth. The combination of textures and flavors is a testament to the chef's skill and creativity.

Vaaghals is not just about food; it’s an experience. The restaurant prides itself on its commitment to sustainability, sourcing ingredients from local farms and producers. This dedication to quality is evident in every bite. The ambiance is enhanced by the friendly staff, who are eager to share the stories behind each dish, making your dining experience even more memorable.

Vaaghals is renowned for its innovative approach to traditional Norwegian cuisine, emphasizing local ingredients and sustainability.

With its unique dishes, open kitchen, and commitment to quality, Vaaghals offers a dining experience that is both delicious and memorable.

Vaaghals is conveniently located near the Opera House and other cultural attractions, making it a perfect stop for a meal after exploring Oslo.

Whether you’re a local or a traveler, make sure to stop by Vaaghals for an unforgettable culinary journey. Experience the flavors of Norway like never before and indulge in a meal that celebrates the best of local cuisine. We look forward to welcoming you!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzOUlUMjR3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJvb0h34puQUYRWV0Emq6t8MI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzOUlUMjR3RRAB

Absolutely loved this place. We shared the brunch and the food was amazing. Great wines. Very friendly and attentive staff; the open kitchen was a bonus as we watched the preparation of the food.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2ek9XemxBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJvb0h34puQUYRWV0Emq6t8MI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2ek9XemxBRRAB

A very good restaurant with lots of positives and lots of potential. You get a lot food for the 8 course tasting menu and you won’t leave hungry at all. The open plan kitchen/ dining area is a nice touch and the environment is calm and professional. I would say the Michelin Star is just about justified but I wouldn’t be surprised if one year it lost it. I assume it’s given because of the restaurants commitment to local ingredients, using all of the animal parts. They need to refine the menu and focus on cooking the key elements better instead of over complicating the plate.

1st course - Soup and Bread
Soup, nice and sharp with good flavour and warmth. On reflection it was the best part of the meal. The brioche bread was a little too crispy and burnt. The butter was hard and could have been slightly melted to help with spreading. The crisp bread was unnecessary, a dry accompaniment. The wholemeal roll was slightly better but nothing of note. The dill spread was very lost in the bread course.

2nd Course - Ham, Pate & Herring
Home salted and smoked ham was pleasant. The salting was the best part and it really came through but as for the flavour of the ham itself, once again very absent. Herring was good, well seasoned and with a good herb accompaniment. The pate was strange. Quite a lot of it with the overall course. With a better bread selection, it could have been better served.

3rd - Reindeer Tartar on Sweet Potato Waffle with Hazlenuts & Roe
The waffle was merely a serving platter to the reindeer, which was the star of this dish. Not sure why there was roe and hazelnuts on this dish. Saltiness came across quite strongly. Definitely a theme of this restaurant so far. It’s a confused dish. Not unpleasant at all as the reindeer saves it.

4th Course - Halibut & Celeriac
The chicken stock immersion sauce was probably the best part, creamy flavour came through really well. The halibut was slightly overcooked and chewy. The outside was perfect but it had fed through to the middle and this toughened it a little too much. I prefer an internal texture that melts like butter. The shredded strands on top of the celeriac brought a texture that was welcome. The flavour of the crust arranged on top of the celeriac itself was very good indeed.

5th - Broth & Nuts
I’m not even sure what to call this dish. A rich gravy with nuts. An apple flavour that was there before I poured on extremely overpowering rich gravy. Onion strands were raw and added little. There’s a real obsession with nuts in this menu and the reason isn’t entirely clear.

6th - Duck, Confit duck, cabbage, sprouts, cherries
The duck really was perfect, the sauce was sharp and spot on as well. The plate was very busy with the sprouts and cherries adding very little. The cabbage itself was perfect but it was overloaded by cream, dressing and soy. The duck confit was very dry, an unfortunate part to an otherwise good dish. This could be a great wish with some refinement.

7th - Desert
Gingercake with toffee sauce, very pleasant cake with a good fiery flavour coming through. Well-balanced.

Blackcurrent Sorbet, foam and chocolate crumb. The sorbet was perfect, the crumb was non-existent hidden and overpowered by the tartness of the foam. Just too much.

Chocolate mousse with cherry drops. The mousse was very good indeed but spoilt by the darkness of the cherry. I understand the flavour they’re trying to go for but it just doesn’t balance well. There needs to be more chocolate to balance that cherry.

8th - Petit Fours
Broadly forgettable at the end. Delicate, yes.  But very little flavour.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3amJHUjhnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJvb0h34puQUYRWV0Emq6t8MI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3amJHUjhnRRAB

A very good restaurant in an excellent location near the Opera House and close to the train station. We opted for the 4-course tasting menu, which was very good. The wine pairing was excellent, but it was very expensive for 4 courses. The wine list was also very expensive, so we did dead the wine pairing. The courses got larger as the menu progressed. By the end we were too full to eat the last course. The entrecôte was so big that it was difficult for 4 people to share. The first course of soup and house-made ham was wonderful. I wish I had just ordered it as my whole meal. Service was friendly and the atmosphere was pleasant. I simply feel the portion sizes were a bit weird and the meal took almost 3 hours for four courses. If I were to go back, I would order off the menu instead of doing the tasting menu.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfNGZhUzRnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJvb0h34puQUYRWV0Emq6t8MI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfNGZhUzRnRRAB

One of the worst experiences I have had.
Food was good, but I think we can expect better quality for the price (soup was particularly too salty, veal was very fatty, gingerbread was too salty and too sweet).
However, the food was not an issue … what can be said about the service!!
We have been invoiced twice the wrong amount!! 1000kr is the difference they try to charge us for something we never ordered!!!
- 2 wine pairings instead of one
- wrong wine pairings
The manager didn’t want to acknowledge their big mistake, neither offer a commercial gesture, nor provide any excuses.
Look twice your bills before paying if you dare to go there…

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzLWJPemxRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJvb0h34puQUYRWV0Emq6t8MI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzLWJPemxRRRAB

Much and more can be said about this place, but let me begin with saying, it's a must visit. From the moment we entered, Helen, our server, made sure we got seated and gave us excellent recommendation for food. Then lo and behold, head chef Christer himself comes to us with the food and his presentation explains to us what we're about to eat, which, unsurprisingly, was an absolute gastronomic treat! I am definitely coming back here soon as can.

Vaaghals Restaurant: Michelin Star Dining in Oslo's Gamle Oslo

Vaaghals was one of the first restaurants to open in Oslo's Barcode area, contributing to the development of the city's modern culinary scene.

Vaaghals Restaurant history overview in Oslo's Barcode district.

Vaaghals holds a unique place in Oslo's modern culinary history as one of the pioneering restaurants in the vibrant Barcode district. Opening its doors in 2014, it set the tone for a new era of dining in this rapidly developing urban area, which is known for its striking architecture and dynamic cultural scene.

 as a trailblazer in Oslo's Barcode neighborhood. This move marked a significant moment in the area's transformation from a commercial and architectural development into a culinary hotspot. Vaaghals helped cultivate a sophisticated dining culture that draws locals and visitors alike, eager to experience its innovative cuisine and ambience.

By establishing a restaurant that embraced local ingredients, sophisticated techniques, and a commitment to quality, Vaaghals contributed significantly to Oslo's rise as a destination for food enthusiasts. Its presence in the Barcode district exemplifies the blend of contemporary urban life with Norway's rich culinary traditions, inspiring other establishments in the area and enhancing the city's gastronomic reputation.

Today, Vaaghals remains a symbol of innovation and culinary excellence in Oslo. Its role as one of the first dining establishments to open in the Barcode area helped pave the way for a thriving restaurant scene that continues to grow. Whether for locals or travelers seeking a memorable dining experience in the heart of Norway's capital, Vaaghals stands out as a must-visit destination with a rich history rooted in the evolution of Oslo's vibrant food culture.

 Vaaghals opens as a pioneering restaurant in Oslo's Barcode district, setting new standards for local dining.

Restroom

Outdoor Seating

Live Music

Parking Options

Good for Groups

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Cocktails

Serves Vegetarian Food

In the vibrant heart of Oslo, Vaaghals offers a delightful dining experience with a blend of modern Scandinavian cuisine and bold creativity. The restaurant features a sleek design and panoramic views of the Oslo skyline, making it a visual treat as well as a culinary one. With a menu that celebrates seasonal ingredients and a warm atmosphere, Vaaghals is perfect for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings.

Vaaghals

Vaaghals offers a modern twist on Norwegian cuisine, featuring dishes like house-made charcuterie, celeriac pasta with butter sauce and løyrom, seared hake with lobster sauce, dry-aged steak with roasted turnip, and desserts such as vanilla caramel mousse with almond ice cream.

House-made charcuterie and bread

Celeriac pasta with butter sauce and løyrom

Seared hake with lobster sauce

Dry-aged steak with roasted turnip, red wine reduction, and bone marrow

Vanilla caramel mousse, lemon cream, milk chocolate, and almond ice cream

White chocolate Bavarian cream, sea buckthorn, and hazelnut ice cream

Vaaghals Menu

Nestled in the heart of Oslo, Vaaghals presents an innovative take on traditional Norwegian cuisine with a menu that promises both bold flavors and refined techniques. This vibrant restaurant invites food enthusiasts and culinary adventurers alike to indulge in a thoughtfully crafted selection of dishes that celebrate local ingredients with a contemporary flair.

Begin your culinary journey with the house-made charcuterie accompanied by freshly baked bread. This starter embodies a perfect balance of rich, cured meats paired with rustic bread that complements each bite, setting a vibrant and appetizing tone for the meal ahead.

Vaaghals’ main courses showcase a masterful blend of traditional and modern flavors. The celeriac pasta tossed in a luscious butter sauce and topped with løyrom (vendace roe) delivers a delicate yet indulgent seafood twist that highlights Norwegian culinary heritage. For seafood lovers, the seared hake served with a rich lobster sauce offers a tender and flavorful experience, where the buttery sauce perfectly enhances the flaky fish.

Meat enthusiasts will be drawn to the dry-aged steak, expertly cooked and served alongside roasted turnip, a red wine reduction, and bone marrow. This dish combines deep, savory notes with a luxurious texture, delivering an unforgettable taste of Nordic flavors married with classic techniques.

To conclude your meal on a sweet note, Vaaghals offers exquisitely crafted desserts that balance texture and flavor beautifully. The vanilla caramel mousse paired with lemon cream, milk chocolate, and almond ice cream provides a harmonious medley of creamy, citrusy, and nutty elements that delight the palate.

Alternatively, the white chocolate Bavarian cream paired with sea buckthorn and hazelnut ice cream delivers a refreshing yet rich dessert option, showcasing a perfect contrast between the tartness of sea buckthorn and the smooth sweetness of white chocolate and nuts.

 – Vaaghals embraces seasonal and local Norwegian produce, elevating the essence of its dishes.

 – Watch chefs curate each dish with precision, adding to the immersive dining experience.

Indulge in Oslo's culinary delight at Vaaghals! Savor innovative dishes in a stunning setting. Book your table now for an unforgettable meal!

Vaaghals: Unique Dining Experience in Oslo

Oslo Municipality

A selection of the chef's best dishes, showcasing the best of Norwegian cuisine.

8-course tasting menu

A variety of dishes available for individual selection.

À la carte menu

Vaaghals restaurant Oslo Norway dining experience overview.

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Oslo at Dronning Eufemias gate 8, Vaaghals offers an exquisite dining journey that seamlessly blends contemporary flair with rich Norwegian culinary traditions. Whether you're a foodie exploring Nordic cuisine or a traveler seeking a memorable meal near Oslo's iconic Opera House, Vaaghals is a destination that promises to delight your senses.

Exceptional menus featuring local and seasonal ingredients

At the core of Vaaghals' appeal is its thoughtfully curated offering of an 

, showcasing the best of Norwegian cuisine through innovative, artfully presented dishes that celebrate local and seasonal ingredients. Diners can also choose from the à la carte menu, which presents a variety of dishes for individual selection, balancing creativity with familiar flavors.

Atmosphere, service, and dining experience

Vaaghals boasts an open kitchen that invites guests to witness the culinary craftsmanship up close, adding a lively and engaging energy to your meal. The staff is known for being friendly and attentive, contributing to an inviting and professional atmosphere. Whether you're indulging in brunch, lunch, or dinner, the environment is well-suited for groups seeking a refined yet approachable dining experience.

Additional amenities and practical information

 - Enjoy a curated selection of fine wines and creative cocktails that complement the bold flavors of the menu.

 - Take in the lively Oslo street scene while savoring your meal in the fresh air.

 - Paid garage and street parking options make visiting easy even by car.

 - Accepts credit and debit cards for hassle-free transactions.

Vaaghals is more than just a restaurant; it’s a showcase of Norway’s culinary innovation and respect for local produce. The dedication to using all parts of ingredients reflects a sustainable approach many diners appreciate. Whether you’re here for a leisurely brunch, a sophisticated dinner, or to explore the tasting menu’s eight beautifully crafted courses, this restaurant delivers a memorable experience that embodies Oslo’s modern food scene.

Discover Vaaghals in Gamle Oslo, Oslo. Enjoy innovative Norwegian cuisine, local ingredients, and a modern atmosphere. Book now!

Vaaghals Oslo - Unique Norwegian Dining Experience

Visit Vaaghals in Oslo's Gamle Oslo. Savor seasonal dishes, modern interior, outdoor seating, and exceptional service in a welcoming setting. Reserve today!

Experience Vaaghals Oslo - Culinary Excellence & Local Flavors

Learn about Vaaghals in Oslo, a pioneer in contemporary Norwegian cuisine, committed to local ingredients, innovative dishes, and sustainable dining since 2014.

Vaaghals Restaurant: Michelin Star Dining in Oslo's Gamle Oslo

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