Bar Guide 2026: The best cocktail bars in Norway

Nothing is left to chance at Himkok, Scandinavia's most award-winning bar, and rightly so. This eclectic establishment, whose name translates as "booze", offers a complete experience: a cozy craft cocktail bar, a lively courtyard with a carefully curated cider menu, a lively cocktail bar with drinks on tap and even an in-house distillery - not to mention a hair salon! The drinks are perfectly balanced, minimalist in style and yet largely composed from local ingredients. If you are near Oslo, the "Himkok" is a must-visit.

A visit to "Svanen" gives you the feeling of traveling back in time. The restaurant is located in a beautifully preserved pharmacy from the late 19th century. The wood-paneled main room and the original interior design create an unagitated, enchanting atmosphere. The bar offers a seamless blend of vintage elegance and modern cocktail artistry, while the staff, in their dapper apothecary-inspired uniforms, add a distinctive charm to the Nordic hospitality. The frequently changing menu is consistently excellent - and the team's dedication extends to making their own bespoke glasses.

With its timeless, regal elegance, the Britannia Bar proves that world-class cocktail culture extends far beyond Oslo. Located in the historic Britannia Hotel in the heart of Trondheim, its menu is inspired by the rich heritage of both the hotel and the city itself. The service is impeccable - almost clairvoyant - and makes every guest feel instantly cared for.

Set within the Amerikalinjen Hotel in Oslo, Pier 42 takes its inspiration from Manhattan’s historic pier, where countless Scandinavians first arrived in America. The bar blends the opulence of a classic American lobby bar with the clean lines of Nordic minimalism. Each thoughtfully curated menu reflects the team’s dedication to craft, from concept and service to the creativity behind every cocktail.

Those who appreciate breathtaking views of the skyline should definitely visit the "Espier Bar". This luxurious bar is located on the roof of the Clarion Hotel in Stavanger and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Its name - which translates as "one who spies" - is playfully echoed by the binoculars placed on each table, inviting guests to take a closer look at their surroundings. Creative cocktails form a beautiful contrast to the sophisticated interior and prove that fun and elegance can go hand in hand.

The bar within the bar. Tucked away in "Svanen", this eye-catching offshoot offers a complete change of scene. Under the name "Den Grimme Ælling" (The Ugly Duckling), the vintage elegance of Svanen gives way to a sleek sci-fi aesthetic with a metallic interior that almost looks like a spaceship. True to its sustainable philosophy, "Den Grimme Ælling" transforms "ugly" ingredients into beautiful, flavorful creations. A study in contrasts, creativity and meticulous detail - a bar that is best experienced in person.

This impressive rooftop restaurant and bar combines the culinary creativity of chef Håvard Klempe with the mixology expertise of Jørgen Dons. With a focus on local ingredients, Kombo combines imaginative cocktails with beautifully prepared dishes, while the carefully curated spirits collection is the ideal accompaniment. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Kombo offers a complete and unforgettable experience high above the city.

Located in the trendy Grünerløkka district of Oslo, this bar exudes the elegance and energy of a New York lounge from the 1920s. It specializes in reinterpreted North American classics made with local ingredients and serves perfectly balanced cocktails with a distinctive Nordic touch. Look forward to one of the warmest and most authentic venues on the Norwegian bar scene.

Since its opening in 2017, "Pjolter & Punsj" has established itself as Stavanger's best-known cocktail bar. This inviting venue combines regional flavors with classic cocktail structure to create drinks that are as distinctive as they are memorable. With its down-to-earth atmosphere and adventurous flavors, it is a place that always delights with surprises.

This versatile Art Deco-style venue combines a cocktail lounge, live events and a dance floor for the late hours under one roof. The first floor is a relaxed lounge, while the upper floor transforms into a club after 10 pm. An additional outdoor area on the opposite side of the street completes the offer and makes this place a worthwhile destination for a varied evening. We recommend taking a look at the event calendar in advance to ensure the best possible experience.