Imagine sitting down to eat, and outside your window there’s a crazy good view—maybe it’s a fjord, some big mountains, or just endless forest. That kind of scenery somehow makes your food taste even better, right? In Scandinavia, this is kind of normal. A lot of the best spots to eat are where the views are just as good as the food.

Scandinavian food itself is pretty simple but really focused on good, local ingredients. You’ll find fresh fish like salmon or herring, wild mushrooms, fresh berries, rye bread, and dishes that are honest and comforting without too much fuss. And coffee? It’s a big deal here. You can find small cafés that serve up strong, good coffee with fresh pastries—think cinnamon buns or flaky Danish pastries.

Whether you’re grabbing a bite while watching the Northern Lights in Norway, sitting by the sea in Sweden, or chilling at a cozy mountain café in Denmark, the vibe is always relaxed. These places are made for slowing down and really enjoying where you are—not just rushing through a meal.

So if you want good food, amazing views, and a chance to take a breather while you eat, these Scandinavian spots are perfect. Want me to share some favorites?

1. Eggen Restaurant – Tromsø, Norway: Dining Above the Arctic Circle

Let’s start with one of Norway’s best spots: Eggen Restaurant in Tromsø. You get there by cable car, which already feels like stepping away from the city noise. Once you’re at the top, the views open up over Tromsø, the Lyngen Alps, and the Tromsø Sound—it’s seriously stunning. If you visit in winter, you might even catch the Northern Lights dancing overhead while you’re enjoying your dinner.

What makes Eggen stand out is how peaceful and remote it feels, despite being so close to the city. It’s a great spot for anyone who wants to combine amazing scenery with good food without the usual crowds. The vibe is relaxed and cozy—you can really slow down and just be.

On the menu, expect local flavors like Arctic char and reindeer, reflecting the northern landscape. The food is straightforward but full of character, made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. And don’t miss their take on traditional Norwegian desserts—they’re a sweet finish you won’t regret.

Try to time your visit to catch the sunset or the Northern Lights if you’re there in winter. Sitting with a warm drink, looking out at the changing sky—it’s the kind of moment that stays with you.

2. The Kjerag Restaurant – Lysefjord, Norway: A breathtaking Dining Experience

Kjerag Restaurant sits right in the middle of Lysefjord, and honestly, the views here are some of the best you’ll find anywhere in Scandinavia. You get there after a hike up to the Kjerag Plateau, and once you arrive, you’re greeted by those massive cliffs dropping down to the deep blue fjord below. It’s one of those spots where you’ll want to slow down and really soak it all in, maybe even take a few extra minutes between bites just to enjoy the scenery.

What makes it stand out is the jaw-dropping setting—you’re literally dining on the edge of one of Norway’s most famous fjords, surrounded by steep mountains and calm water stretching out as far as you can see. You might have heard of Kjeragbolten, the famous boulder wedged between cliffs nearby. From the restaurant, you get an incredible perspective of the whole fjord from way up high. It’s peaceful, quiet, and perfect for anyone who wants a break from the usual tourist spots.

On the menu, expect fresh local ingredients with fish taking center stage—grilled salmon and Norwegian trout are two solid picks. If you’ve just finished the hike and want something more comforting, their Norwegian lamb stew hits the spot every time.

The hike to get here can be a bit of a workout, so go early if you want to enjoy the place before it gets busy. And seriously, bring your camera because the views will stick with you long after the meal.

3. Gondolen Restaurant – Stockholm, Sweden: A Panoramic View of the City

Right in the middle of Stockholm, Gondolen Restaurant sits above the city on a hill at Slussen, giving you one of the best views you can get without leaving the city. The glass-walled dining room looks out over the old town (Gamla Stan), the sparkling archipelago, and the calm waters of Mälaren Lake. It’s the kind of spot where you can really take in Stockholm’s beauty while enjoying a relaxed meal — perfect for slowing down and soaking up the vibe.

What makes Gondolen stand out is how it feels like a quiet retreat above the city’s buzz. Even though you’re just steps away from busy streets and lively neighborhoods, once you’re inside, it’s a completely different pace. The view alone makes it worth the visit, especially at sunset when the warm light hits the water and the historic buildings glow. It’s a peaceful place to watch the day fade and the city light up.

Food-wise, you’re in for some classic Swedish flavors with a twist. The Swedish herring with mustard sauce is a must-try if you want something traditional, while the fresh seafood platter offers a great mix of local fish if you want to sample a bit of everything. And you can’t go wrong with the Swedish meatballs served with lingonberries and creamy potatoes — it’s comfort food with a view that makes it even better.

If you’re planning to visit for dinner, definitely book ahead and try to snag a window seat!

4. Fjaerland Hotel – Fjaerland, Norway: Dining by the Jostedalsbreen Glacier

Nestled in the small village of Fjaerland, right in the heart of Norway, Fjaerland Hotel offers a dining experience that’s hard to beat. Sitting with views of the Jostedalsbreen Glacier and the surrounding snow-capped mountains, the whole place feels like a peaceful escape. Whether you’re inside the cozy restaurant or out on the quiet patio, you’ll be surrounded by stunning scenery no matter where you sit.

Fjaerland still flies under the radar for many travelers, which makes dining here feel even more special. There’s something about having a meal with a glacier in the background that sticks with you long after you leave.

What to Eat: Dive into local Norwegian flavors like their hearty venison stew or try the classic fish soup made with fresh ingredients from the area. And don’t skip the freshly baked bread with butter—it’s simple but hits the spot every time.

After dinner, take a stroll down by the fjord. It’s the perfect way to unwind and soak in the quiet, natural beauty of the place. Fjaerland is peaceful, remote, and the kind of spot where you can really slow down and connect with nature.

5. Sola Strand Hotel – Stavanger, Norway: Coastal Views and Fresh Seafood

If you’re in Stavanger, don’t miss a visit to Sola Strand Hotel. It’s right on the coast, with stunning views over the North Sea and the Jæren Coast’s wide sandy beaches. The restaurant here serves up fresh seafood and classic Scandinavian dishes, all while you watch waves roll in and crash against the shore. The whole vibe is relaxed and coastal—perfect if you want to feel like you’re dining right at the edge of the world.

What makes it special is that mix of fresh, local seafood paired with the calming ocean views…

If seafood’s your thing, the seafood buffet is definitely worth trying—expect local favorites like shrimp, salmon, and crab. If you want something heartier, their Norwegian cod with seasonal veggies is a solid choice: light but satisfying.

If you can, try to time your visit for late afternoon or early evening. Watching the sunset from the restaurant with a glass of chilled Norwegian wine or a local craft beer makes the whole experience even better.

6. Juvet Landscape Hotel – Alstad, Norway: Dining with a View of Dramatic Fjords and Wilderness

If you’re after a dining experience that truly wows, Juvet Landscape Hotel in the wilds of Alstad, Norway, should be on your list. Located in Valldal, a place famous for its steep fjords and raw mountain scenery, this hotel isn’t just somewhere to sleep—it’s a full immersion in nature. The restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows put you right in the middle of it all, with views stretching over fjords, dense forests, and rolling hills. Here, nature is the main attraction.

What makes Juvet stand out is how the building itself blends into the landscape, creating a peaceful vibe where you feel totally connected to the surroundings. It’s a place to escape the noise, slow down, and let the natural beauty take over while you enjoy fresh, locally inspired food.

The menu highlights what’s in season and local—from fresh Norwegian cod and trout to hearty dishes like reindeer stew and herb-seasoned lamb. And don’t skip the homemade Norwegian pastries for dessert—they’re the perfect end to a solid meal.

The quiet times—early morning or late evening—are when the place really shines, with calm fjord views and peaceful forests all around. If you want to really unplug, staying in one of their landscape cabins means you get the full panorama from your room. Juvet nails the mix of great food, comfort, and jaw-dropping scenery—making it a proper retreat deep in the Norwegian wilderness.

Iris Expedition Dining Salmon Eye Floating Restaurant – Hardangerfjord, Norway

If you’re after a dining experience that’s truly one of a kind, the Iris Expedition Dining Salmon Eye Floating Restaurant on Hardangerfjord in Norway should be on your list. This isn’t your usual restaurant — it’s literally floating on the water, surrounded by towering cliffs, glaciers, and calm fjord waters. The 360-degree views mean you’re immersed in Norway’s stunning nature the entire time you eat.

What makes it stand out is the feeling that you’re dining right on the fjord itself. The peaceful water beneath and dramatic scenery all around create an unforgettable vibe that’s both calming and breathtaking. It’s perfect for anyone who loves nature or just wants a dining experience that feels genuinely connected to the landscape.

The salmon here is the highlight, fresh and local, prepared in ways that bring out all its delicate flavors. Start light with the salmon carpaccio, then settle in with a rich grilled salmon dish. There are also other local specialties on the menu, like smoked salmon and fjord trout, paired with traditional Norwegian sides that round out the meal.

The best time to visit is in summer when the weather’s warmer and the fjord is calmest. Booking ahead is a must since this spot fills up fast. Try to time your visit for late afternoon or evening so you can catch the sunset—the way the light hits the water here is something you won’t forget.

Overall, this floating restaurant is a peaceful spot that offers something special - well worth a visit!

Dining in Nature’s Beauty: Simple and Real

In Scandinavia, lots of cafés and restaurants come with killer views—think fjords, mountains, or just chill coastal spots. It’s not just about the food, but the whole vibe of sitting back, soaking in the scenery, and taking a proper break.

The food’s usually local and fresh, but honestly, it’s the combo of good eats plus fresh air and a great view that makes these places special. No need to rush, just relax, enjoy the moment, and maybe even let the scenery do some of the heavy lifting.

So, when you’re in Scandinavia, make sure to find a spot like this…!

Unforgettable Scandinavian Restaurants with Views You’ll Never Forget