Revierhavnen Kro: Oslo's Hidden Island Restaurant

Tucked away on Hovedøya island in the Oslo fjord sits one of the city's most exclusive dining experiences. Revierhavnen Kro offers what many consider Oslo's finest restaurant view, but getting there requires either your own boat or careful planning with a group.

This charming waterfront restaurant belongs to Norway's oldest boat club, making it a truly unique destination that most tourists never discover. Here's everything you need to know about visiting this hidden island gem.

Getting to Hovedøya Island

Revierhavnen Kro waterfront terrace The idyllic waterfront terrace at Revierhavnen Kro overlooks the Oslo fjord

By Public Ferry (Groups Only)

If you don't own a boat, you'll need to organise a group of at least 10 people and book well in advance. Once your reservation is confirmed, take the Ruter ferry (lines B1 or B2) from Rådhusbrygge 4 (Aker Brygge) to Hovedøya. The restaurant staff will meet you at the island's main dock since the restaurant entrance is through a locked marina gate.

Ferry details:

• Departure point: Rådhusbrygge 4 (Aker Brygge)
• Lines: B1 or B2 to Hovedøya
• Journey time: 6-10 minutes
• Cost: Standard Ruter ticket prices apply
• Booking: Contact restaurant directly for group arrangements

By Private Boat

Boat owners can dock directly at the guest marina and walk straight to the restaurant. This drop-in option makes Revierhavnen Kro particularly popular with Oslo's boating community during summer months.

The Restaurant Experience

Stunning Waterfront Setting

The restaurant occupies a prime spot right on the water's edge, with panoramic views stretching from the Astrup Fearnley Museum to Vippa food hall and Sørenga district. The outdoor terrace extends over the water, creating an almost floating dining experience accompanied by gentle wave sounds and seagull calls.

Large parasols provide shade during sunny days, while the green wooden building with white trim creates a classic Norwegian coastal atmosphere. The setting feels worlds away from central Oslo, despite being just a 6-10 minute boat ride from the city.

Menu and Pricing

The kitchen focuses on fresh seafood and Norwegian classics, with generous portions that justify the island location pricing:

Seafood specialities:

• Fresh mussels: 282 NOK (€24, $26)
• Local prawns: 245 NOK (€21, $24)
• Brosme fish with grilled cabbage and mussel sauce: 296 NOK (€25, $29)

Meat options:

• Pepperbiff (steak) with red wine jus, chips, and green beans: 439 NOK (€37, $41)
• Beef or vegetarian burgers: 279-289 NOK (€24-25, $27-28) each

Drinks:

• Mango IPA beer: 114 NOK (€10, $11)
• House red wine (Montepulciano): 106 NOK (€9, $10)
• Daily salad: 185 NOK (€16, $18)

The burgers come loaded with red onion, pickled cucumber, chilli mayo, lettuce, and cheese, served alongside generous portions of chips and aioli. The restaurant prides itself on substantial servings that satisfy hungry boaters and island visitors.

When to Visit

Summer Opening Hours

Monday-Thursday: 2pm-11pm (kitchen closes 9pm) Friday: 2pm-12am (kitchen closes 9pm) Saturday: 12pm-12am (kitchen closes 9pm)
Sunday: 12pm-8:30pm (kitchen closes 7pm)

The restaurant operates seasonally, typically from Easter through October when weather permits comfortable outdoor dining.

Best Times for Your Visit

Early afternoon offers the most relaxed atmosphere, while sunset dining provides spectacular lighting across the fjord. Weekend lunch slots fill up quickly with boat owners, so weekday visits often feel more peaceful.

Planning Your Island Adventure

What to Bring

• Sun protection: The waterfront terrace offers limited shade
• Light jacket: Evening temperatures can drop near the water
• Cash backup: While cards are accepted, having some Norwegian kroner helps
• Camera: The fjord views are genuinely spectacular

Combining with Island Exploration

Hovedøya offers excellent swimming spots, hiking trails, and medieval monastery ruins worth exploring before or after your meal. The island's beaches provide a perfect complement to restaurant dining, making it an ideal full-day excursion.

For more island adventures, check out our guide to Oslo's best lunch spots for mainland alternatives.

Group Events and Private Dining

Revierhavnen Kro specialises in group celebrations and corporate events. They can arrange:

• Birthday parties and anniversaries
• Wedding receptions
• Corporate summer parties
• Christmas celebrations
• Custom group menus

The exclusive island setting makes any gathering feel special, while the restaurant's experience with boat club events ensures smooth logistics.

Nearby Oslo Attractions

Before Your Island Trip

• Akershus Fortress: Historic castle near the ferry departure point
• Astrup Fearnley Museum: Contemporary art with fjord views
• Vippa Food Hall: International street food destination

After Returning

The Aker Brygge area connects easily to central Oslo attractions. Consider visiting our recommended traditional Norwegian restaurants for more local dining experiences.

Practical Tips for International Visitors

Payment and Tipping

Norwegian restaurants typically add service charges, but rounding up bills by 5-10% shows appreciation. Most establishments accept international cards, though having some Norwegian kroner proves useful for small purchases.

Weather Considerations

Oslo's summer weather can change quickly near the water. The restaurant's outdoor focus means booking depends heavily on conditions, so flexible planning works best.

Language

Staff speak excellent English, and menus include English translations. The international boating community ensures a welcoming atmosphere for foreign visitors.

Is Revierhavnen Kro Worth the Effort?

This unique island restaurant delivers an experience impossible to replicate on the mainland. The combination of stunning fjord views, quality Norwegian cuisine, and exclusive atmosphere justifies the planning required to visit.

However, the group booking requirement and seasonal operation mean this isn't a spontaneous dining option. Plan ahead, gather your friends, and prepare for one of Oslo's most memorable restaurant experiences.

The journey becomes part of the adventure, transforming a simple meal into a proper Norwegian island expedition that showcases Oslo's beautiful archipelago setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit Revierhavnen Kro without a boat?

Yes, but you need to organise a group of at least 10 people and book in advance. The restaurant will arrange ferry transport and meet you at Hovedøya's main dock.

What's the minimum group size for ferry access?

You need at least 10 people to book group ferry transport to the restaurant. Smaller groups must arrive by private boat.

Is the restaurant open year-round?

No, Revierhavnen Kro operates seasonally from Easter through October, typically April through October depending on weather conditions.

How far in advance should I book?

For group bookings, contact the restaurant at least 2-3 weeks ahead, especially for weekend slots during peak summer months when demand is highest.