Norway’s culinary scene is more than smoked salmon and waffles—it’s a flavorful journey through fjords, forests, and folklore. But what do international travelers actually love to eat when they visit? According to Visit Norway, TasteAtlas, and regional tourism boards, these are the most popular traditional dishes among tourists—based on verified ratings, food tours, and dining trends.
🥇 Fårikål – Mutton & Cabbage Stew
Norway’s national dish is a hit with visitors, especially in autumn. Slow-cooked mutton and cabbage seasoned with peppercorns, served with potatoes. Featured in food tours and seasonal menus. TasteAtlas rating: 4.5/5.
🧀 Brunost – Brown Cheese
A must-try for tourists. This caramelized whey cheese is served on waffles, crispbread, or sandwiches. Found in hotel buffets and cafés. Visit Norway lists it as a top culinary experience.
🍣 Salmon (Gravlaks & Sushi)
Norway’s most famous export. Tourists enjoy it smoked, cured (gravlaks), or as sushi. Often served in fjord-side restaurants and seafood buffets. TasteAtlas rating: 4.4/5.
🦌 Reindeer Dishes – Finnbiff & Bidos
Popular in Northern Norway and Sami regions. Tourists love the novelty and Arctic authenticity. Served with lingonberry jam and mashed potatoes. TasteAtlas rating: 4.1/5.
🥖 Lefse – Potato Flatbread
Sweet or savory wrap sold at markets and bakeries. Tourists enjoy it with cinnamon, sugar, or cured meats. TasteAtlas rating: 4.0/5.
🍥 Bergen Cinnamon Rolls (Skillingsboller)
Iconic pastry found in cafés and train stations. Tourists love it as a snack or breakfast treat. TasteAtlas rating: 4.0/5.
Picture of Bergen Cinnamon Rolls
🐟 Pickled Herring – Sild og Poteter
Popular among European tourists familiar with Nordic flavors. Served with potatoes, sour cream, and dill. TasteAtlas rating: 4.2/5.
🍖 Pinnekjøtt – Steamed Lamb Ribs
A Christmas classic gaining popularity with winter travelers. Featured in holiday menus and cultural food tours. TasteAtlas rating: 4.0/5.
🧀 Kraftkar – Blue Cheese
Award-winning cheese from Tingvollost. Tourists seek it out after hearing it won “World’s Best Cheese” in 2016. TasteAtlas rating: 4.1/5.
🧀 Jarlsberg Cheese
Mild, nutty cheese with signature holes. Found in sandwiches, fondues, and hotel breakfasts. TasteAtlas rating: 3.9/5.
🥩 Kjøttkaker – Norwegian Meat Cakes
Coarse beef patties served with gravy and potatoes. A weekday favorite that tourists often try in traditional restaurants. TasteAtlas rating: 3.9/5.
Final Word
Norwegian cuisine is hearty, seasonal, and surprisingly diverse. From fjord-fresh salmon to cinnamon-scented pastries, these dishes offer travelers a true taste of Norway’s soul. For full rankings and authentic recipes, visit TasteAtlas’s Norway page or explore curated food experiences on VisitNorway.com.
