Enhjørningen

bergen's beautiful and even though it statistically rains 5/7 days a week, we must've caught the 2 days where there was perfect weather. stayed in a chic little place with the most gorgeous views of bryggen, the old whaft and living testament to the hanseatic league's trading empire. for those who care about UNESCO, it was basically waking up to breath-taking, panoramic views of the protected heritage site.

this restaurant came highly recommended by the concierge and we weren't disappointed. had a long day travelling and opted for an early dinner. again, we got lucky and managed to squeeze a last minute reservation from the otherwise fully booked restaurant. think it was my gaunt 'i haven't eaten properly in 6 weeks!!!' face that convinced the maitre' d to make an exception. possibly also because i'd promised that we'd be done by 8pm because we were so exhausted we couldn't possibly stay awake after.

slightly kitschy interior, lots of pale pink and old padded chairs. charming, nonetheless, with good service and traditional, hearty food. none of that pretentious big plate with miniscule servings. this was real food for real people but still prepared with a deft hand and full of subtle, wholesome flavour. it was one of those rare restaurants that leaves you feeling oh-so-full after the main course but with craving enough for dessert. and dessert was the best i had this trip, which always sweetens the deal, does it not?

shelled king crab legs

mussels in white wine sauce

the best fish i've ever had. loved the texture, firm yet very very slightly chewy, the grain (?) of the fillet just parts on first bite and it was cooked to perfection. never before have i had such a delightful fish dish.

communal potato au gratin side

best dessert of the holiday - drunken berries with home made vanilla ice cream

we were talking about dinner for hours and hours. when i first remarked that the food was superlative, my mother dismissed me with a, 'oh what do you know about good food? you've not had any in weeks.' then she took a bite herself, her eyes lit up like christmas lights and i knew that it was really good. because she's the arbiter of taste.

Bryggen 29, N-5004 Bergen
Phone: +47 5532 7919
Fax: +47 5532 7083
E-mail: info@enhjorningen.no
http://www.enhjorningen.no