Savor the symphony of flavors from Norway’s fjords. A UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, Bergen has a food culture that runs as deep as the Sognefjord. With its longstanding history in the seafood trade, as well as a flourishing agricultural community and hundreds of artisan food producers, there is no shortage of opportunities to sample the region’s bounty. Organic, sustainable, and locally sourced ingredients abound at eateries throughout the city, including Brasserie & Bar at Opus XVI. Featuring French cuisine crafted out of seasonal, locally grown and sourced products, it offers a veritable smorgasbord of Norwegian ingredients with an elegant European twist.

Taste the treasures of the North Sea at Bergen's famed fish market, or "Fisketorget" in Norwegian. Once a Nordic trade hub for goods like dried and salted cod, this port city has a long and celebrated seafood tradition. So, do not miss a chance to try the catch of the day at restaurants throughout the city, from smoked salmon and raw scallops to quintessential Bergen dishes like fish soup and “persetorsk.” A local delicacy of sugared, salted, and steamed cod, the dish is so beloved that the city even celebrates Persetorsk Day on January 28.

Toast your trip to Bergen with a glass of “Nordic Champagne,” better known as apple cider. While the city itself may be at the heart of UNESCO’s City of Gastronomy designation, the title also extends to the region surrounding it, including Hardangerfjord. Known as the “Orchard of Norway,” the Queen of the Fjords is as much known for the fruit farms that dot its shores as its impressive size and beauty. Along with fruits like cherries, strawberries, plums, and raspberries, this verdant valley also yields tons of apples annually. Many of them are turned into “Hardanger cider” by the local cider guild, creating a beverage that has even earned the distinction of geographically protected branding, just like wines made in the French province of Champagne.

Enjoy Afternoon Tea at Opus XVI. Held every Saturday from noon to 5:00 PM in Brasserie & Bar, this elegant event pays tribute to the British tradition. Along with a selection of teas and bubbly, guests may also choose from an assortment of sandwiches, from classically English varieties to Nordic variations, which are accompanied by a tempting spread of cakes and scones alongside accouterments like clotted cream and lemon curd.