Falstaff brings Norway’s vibrant coffee culture into focus in the Falstaff Coffee Guide Nordics 2026, awarding excellence in Best Barista, Best New Opening, Best Roastery and Favourite Café.
Norway’s café scene is thriving like never before. From specialty roasteries in vibrant city centers to cozy neighborhood cafés serving exceptional pastries alongside expertly crafted coffee, venues across the country are raising the bar for quality, creativity, and hospitality. Falstaff presents its category winners:
Arne Risø Nilsen, “Risø”, Tromsø
Two-time Norwegian Latte Art Champion, Arne Risø Nilsen has become one of the most recognized coffee experts in the Arctic region. At “Risø” in Tromsø, he specializes in carefully handbrewed coffee drinks adapted to the region’s climate and culture. He contributes to northern Norway’s growing specialty coffee scene with skills behind the bar and roots in the community. risoe-mk.no
“Tim Wendelboe”, Oslo
Since establishing his roastery in 2007, Tim Wendelboe has become one of the most influential figures in global specialty coffee. A benchmark for Nordic light roasting, the Oslo-based operation has shaped how professionals understand terroir, transparency and roast development. Approaching its 20-year anniversary, Tim Wendelboe remains the name most synonymous with modern Norwegian coffee. timwendelboe.no
“Hibi Kaffe”, Oslo
At the same location as Bib Gourmand restaurant The Little Pickle, “Hibi Kaffe”, serves as the house roastery of the coffee bar added in 2024. The cafe offers specialty coffee from head roaster Ayae Maki Fredheim and pastries by power couple Nozomi and Tsukasa Miyawaki, formerly of Ille Brød. Together, they have created a calm meeting place where the exceptional feels effortless. hibikaffe.no
“Jacobsen & Svart Coffee Roasters”, Trondheim
Central to Trondheim’s coffee culture since 2012, this bustling café and respected roastery has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Founded by head barista and roaster Tony Jacobsen, who remains in place behind the bar, the cafe is known for its approachable yet refined brews, from precise espresso to balanced filter. Located on the Bakklandet side of the river Nidelva, it is a warm and welcoming space. jacobsensvart.no
