Introduction

Scandinavia is known for its pristine waters, fjords, and rugged coastline, making it one of the world’s top destinations for fresh, high-quality seafood. From small, family-run eateries to Michelin-starred fine dining establishments, Scandinavian cities and coastal towns boast a vibrant seafood scene. Whether you’re a fan of delicate Nordic fish dishes or adventurous enough to try fermented specialties, the region offers a unique culinary experience centered around the bounty of the sea.

This guide takes you through some of the best seafood restaurants across Sweden, Denmark, Norway, and Finland, each offering something special for seafood enthusiasts. From raw, fresh oysters to smoked salmon and Nordic shellfish, you’ll find a range of flavors and experiences to savor during your visit to Scandinavia.

Sweden

1. Oaxen Krog & Slip, Stockholm

Located on Djurgården Island in Stockholm, Oaxen Krog & Slip is a must-visit for seafood lovers who appreciate sustainability and innovative cooking. The restaurant is known for its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and creating contemporary Nordic dishes. They focus on offering the best of Scandinavian seafood in a refined and environmentally responsible way.

Highlights:

• Dishes like mussels, herring, and wild-caught fish are prepared with locally sourced, organic ingredients.
• Oaxen Slip, the more casual side of the restaurant, serves a Nordic-inspired smorgasbord with traditional seafood dishes.
• Award-winning sommelier with an impressive wine list, particularly focusing on organic and biodynamic wines.

Best For:

Those looking for a sustainable and upscale seafood experience with a focus on environmental responsibility.

2. Fiskekrogen, Gothenburg

Known as one of the best seafood restaurants in Gothenburg, Fiskekrogen is renowned for its fresh seafood and Scandinavian specialties. Located near the city’s bustling fish market, the restaurant serves a variety of fish and shellfish, prepared with care and attention to detail.

Highlights:

• Known for its impeccable quality of fresh seafood, including crab, lobster, and oysters.
• The signature seafood platters and Swedish-style fish soups like fiskesoppa.
• A charming and intimate setting with both classic and modern touches.

Best For:

Those who want to experience a true taste of Gothenburg’s seafood, with an authentic and cozy ambiance.

Denmark

3. Noma, Copenhagen

Ranked as one of the world’s best restaurants, Noma in Copenhagen has revolutionized the Nordic cuisine scene. While it isn’t strictly a seafood restaurant, the menu frequently highlights innovative seafood dishes that showcase Denmark’s bountiful ocean resources. With chef René Redzepi at the helm, Noma’s focus is on redefining Nordic cuisine using modern techniques and local ingredients.

Highlights:

• Highly creative seafood dishes like raw sea urchins, fermented fish, and razor clams.
• Seasonal menu with seafood as a major component of the offerings, including dishes made with local Nordic sea creatures.
• A multi-course tasting menu that offers an unforgettable experience combining innovation and tradition.

Best For:

Adventurous diners who seek cutting-edge culinary artistry and are open to experimenting with creative seafood flavors.

4. Restaurant Schønnemann, Copenhagen

For a more traditional Danish seafood experience, Restaurant Schønnemann is one of Copenhagen’s oldest and most revered seafood restaurants. Specializing in classic Danish open sandwiches, or smørrebrød, Schønnemann offers a wide range of toppings, including herring, smoked salmon, and other fresh seafood options.

Highlights:

• Famous for its selection of fresh herring served in various styles, such as pickled, marinated, or curried.
• A large variety of open sandwiches paired with Danish aquavit.
• The atmosphere is relaxed, with an old-world charm that feels like a step back in time.

Best For:

Travelers looking for a traditional Danish seafood experience in a historic setting.

Norway

5. Lofoten Fiskerestaurant, Oslo

Located in the heart of Oslo, Lofoten Fiskerestaurant offers an outstanding selection of fresh seafood with a focus on traditional Norwegian flavors. The restaurant boasts a fantastic location by the Oslo harbor, where diners can enjoy views of the fjord while indulging in high-quality seafood dishes.

Highlights:

• Signature dishes include the classic Norwegian fish soup and an assortment of fresh fish and shellfish.
• The restaurant emphasizes sustainability by sourcing seafood directly from the waters around Norway.
• A cozy yet stylish interior with large windows that offer views of the harbor.

Best For:

Those who enjoy fresh, traditional Norwegian seafood in a scenic and comfortable setting.

6. Fiskebrygga, Bergen

Bergen, Norway’s seafood capital, offers a wealth of seafood dining options, and Fiskebrygga stands out as one of the best. This bustling seafood market and restaurant offer the freshest catches directly from the North Sea and surrounding waters.

Highlights:

• A wide selection of fish, crabs, and shellfish straight from the market.
• A popular spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy seafood in a lively, informal setting.
• Dishes like the Norwegian seafood platter, which features a variety of fish, mussels, and shrimp.

Best For:

Those looking for a lively, no-frills seafood experience in Bergen’s historic fish market area.

Finland

7. Savoy, Helsinki

Perched above Helsinki, Savoy is an elegant, iconic restaurant that offers a superb selection of Finnish seafood. It combines fine dining with exceptional views of the city’s harbor and islands. Savoy is renowned for its carefully curated menu that highlights local and seasonal ingredients.

Highlights:

• Dishes such as Finnish salmon, freshwater fish, and traditional fish dishes, including kalakeitto (fish soup).
• The sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, with a stunning view of Helsinki’s skyline.
• An exceptional wine list to pair with their expertly prepared seafood dishes.

Best For:

Those seeking an upscale, fine dining experience with spectacular views and high-quality seafood.

8. Löyly, Helsinki

Löyly is a modern, eco-friendly sauna and restaurant in Helsinki that combines traditional Finnish relaxation with fresh and flavorful seafood. While the restaurant itself is known for its dedication to local produce, it’s the seafood menu that really stands out, bringing Finnish sea flavors into contemporary dining.

Highlights:

• Finnish specialties such as smoked fish and herring, alongside other seafood dishes prepared with local ingredients.
• The unique combination of a seaside sauna experience with the freshest seafood offerings.
• Stunning views of the Baltic Sea from the outdoor terrace.

Best For:

Those who want to enjoy seafood while experiencing Finnish culture and nature in a sustainable setting.

Iceland

9. Fish Market (Fiskmarkaðurinn), Reykjavik

One of Reykjavik’s top dining destinations, Fish Market is known for its creative seafood offerings that fuse Nordic and Asian culinary techniques. The restaurant is celebrated for its exceptional use of local fish, offering a unique culinary experience that incorporates Iceland’s freshest catches.

Highlights:

• Dishes such as smoked Arctic char, scallops, and lobster, all prepared with flair and creativity.
• A vibrant, modern atmosphere with sleek interiors and an open kitchen.
• A popular spot for both tourists and locals, offering a high-end yet accessible experience.

Best For:

Those who love adventurous, innovative seafood dishes with a fusion twist.

10. The Lobster House (Humarhúsið), Reykjavik

As the name suggests, The Lobster House specializes in lobster dishes, particularly the Icelandic langoustine. Located in downtown Reykjavik, it is one of the best places to enjoy lobster prepared in a variety of traditional and modern ways.

Highlights:

• Signature dishes include lobster soup, lobster tail, and lobster-stuffed mussels.
• The cozy, intimate atmosphere makes for a perfect seafood dining experience.
• Fresh lobster is sourced directly from Iceland’s waters, ensuring the highest quality.

Best For:

Lobster lovers and those seeking an authentic taste of Iceland’s coastal offerings.

Why Scandinavia is a Seafood Lover’s Paradise

Scandinavia’s geographical location—surrounded by the North Sea, Baltic Sea, and Arctic Ocean—makes it an ideal destination for seafood lovers. The region has centuries of seafood culture, and today, it continues to honor the traditions of fishing while embracing innovative culinary techniques. The abundance of fresh fish, shellfish, and seaweed makes Scandinavian seafood dishes some of the most flavorful and sought-after in the world.

Conclusion

Scandinavia offers an exceptional array of seafood experiences that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. From the innovative approaches at Noma in Copenhagen to the traditional dishes served in Bergen’s fish markets, there is something for every seafood enthusiast in this region. Whether you’re seeking high-end dining, casual eateries, or traditional Scandinavian seafood specialties, you’re sure to find a memorable experience in one of these world-class restaurants.