Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Norway
Restaurant of the Month, Norway
Doing justice to Justisen Justisen has long been a cultural cornerstone in central Oslo, uniting the city’s diverse demographic under one welcoming roof. Recently saved from extinction, the restaurant is now back with a modern twist, serving Nordic cuisine with surprising international elements. With a warm yard out the back and three different bars waiting upstairs, you will feel right at home – just like generations before you.
hadn’t received love for a little while. We’ve worked closely with the Directorate for Cultural Heritage to preserve the building’s special character.”
By Eirik Elvevold | Photos: Justisen
Though it may seem like Justisen has been part of the town forever, Oslo’s culture scene has undoubtedly received a fresh contribution. The food quality, for instance, is at an all-time high. In the renovated restaurant you can eat Norwegian cuisine, mixing the best of Justisen’s past and present. The proper bistro portions have been preserved, now served in a more gourmet-like fashion.
Every city has a list of places that truly define them. In Oslo, Justisen is on that list. Located right next to the city square of Youngstorget, only a few minutes from the Oslo central station, the century-old restaurant and bar has recently reopened. “The new Justisen is a continuation of the rich history here in Møllergata, but it’s also a result of a necessary modernisation. The restaurant has got itself a real facelift. We now offer a funkier version of the hearty Norwegian food with more international contributions. We’ve invested a lot in our 118 | Issue 93 | October 2016
three bars and new backyard as well,” says Jama Awaleh, partner at Justisen. When the previous owners closed down shop a few years ago, Awaleh could not just sit idly by and watch the legendary hangout, which had served Oslo’s population ever since 1928, dwindle away completely. “I’ve always had a soft spot for these types of institutions. They really are part of the city’s identity and you only realise how much you miss them when they’re gone,” Awaleh says. “It’s been a long process, because the facilities
Hearty Nordic meals
“Justisen will always be warm and authentic, but we’ve taken the food to another level. We strive to use local Norwegian ingredients but often spice it up a bit. On our compact menu you will