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How much does a meal at a restaurant cost in Norway?

Price ranges, an Oslo menu example, lunch and tipping.

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Short answer

A meal at a budget restaurant in Norway costs NOK 190–350, and a three-course dinner at a mid-range restaurant NOK 650–1,500, according to Visit Norway. In central Oslo, Kaffistova lists main courses at NOK 290–495. Tipping is optional. Statistics Norway puts restaurant and accommodation prices nearly 40 per cent above the EU average.

Eating out in Norway on a budget a wallet with a few Norwegian krone coins, a receipt and a small price tag in front of a mountain silhouette

Why

  1. Eurostat figures published by Statistics Norway give Norway a price level of 139.7 for restaurants and accommodation in 2025, where the EU average is 100.
  2. Sweden's prices for restaurants and accommodation were 12 per cent lower than Norway's in 2025, while Denmark's were slightly higher.
  3. Visit Norway notes that tipping is up to you: locals tip in bars and restaurants when they are pleased, usually 5–15 per cent of the bill.

Details

Lunch can be cheaper: Visit Norway notes that you can often get today's special (dagens rett) for a reasonable sum. Drinks raise the bill quickly, as Visit Norway estimates NOK 100–140 for a bottle of beer in a bar. At Kaffistova in Oslo, a three-course dinner costs NOK 725, and the wine pairing adds NOK 450.

Tip

Have your main restaurant meal at lunchtime and ask for dagens rett, and drink tap water, which is free.

What may differ

Prices differ between cities, restaurants and menus, and the same dish can cost more at dinner than at lunch. Check the menu on the restaurant's website before you go.

Common misconception

In Norway you are expected to add a large tip to every restaurant bill.

What actually happens

Tipping is optional. Visit Norway says locals tip when they are happy with the service or food, usually 5–15 per cent, and there are no hard feelings if you do not.

People also ask

  • How much is a meal in Norway?
  • How much does it cost to eat out in Oslo?

Sources

Prices change, so check Visit Norway and the restaurant's own menu before you go.

Eating out in Norway on a budget

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