What it’s like to eat at Under: Norway’s underwater restaurant
While road-tripping through Southern Norway, I decided to finally check something off my bucket list: dining at Under, Europe’s first and only underwater restaurant. I expected an unusual setting, sure—but what surprised me most was just how peaceful, tranquil, and relaxing the atmosphere would be. It didn’t feel like a gimmick, but like you’re truly connecting with nature. And don’t get me started on how phenomenal the food was… Not just good. Michelin-star delicious.
Located in Lindesnes, at the very southern tip of Norway, Under is more than a viral photo op. It’s a dining experience that combines architecture, local ingredients, and the drama of the North Atlantic into something that genuinely feels like a once-in-a-lifetime event!
A restaurant under the sea
The restaurant itself is a feat of architecture. Designed by Snøhetta (the renowned Norwegian firm behind the Oslo Opera House) Under looks like a concrete monolith tilted into the sea. From the outside, it’s striking. But once you walk in, things feel surprisingly cozy.
The dining room sits 5.5 meters below sea level, where a panoramic window offers a glimpse into the underwater world outside. Fish drift by, light filters in and out, and the slow, quiet movement of the ocean becomes part of the meal. It’s peaceful in a way you wouldn’t expect from such a dramatic concept.
Make sure to book ahead
Under is a popular restaurant with limited seating, so you should your trip far in advance!
I’m not someone who usually falls for flashy experiences just for the hype... But Under truly impressed me on every level! The food, the service, the setting… all of it felt carefully thought through and intentional. And despite the high-end atmosphere, the mood was surprisingly relaxed and down to earth.
So, is it worth the hype? For me, yes. It was peaceful, unexpected, and made me feel more connected to both nature and Norway itself. If you're looking to splurge on a one-of-a-kind experience during your time in Norway, this might just be the one.
Sounds like a dream, right? Well, here’s the catch: Under is hard to get into. Like, really hard. Tables often sell out months in advance, especially during the summer season. If you know you’ll be in the area, it’s worth checking availability and planning around it. The earlier you book, the better. Reservations open several months ahead, and you’ll need to pay a deposit when booking. The full experience isn’t cheap, but for a special occasion, or if you’re looking for something truly unique to do in Norway, I would say that it’s absolutely worth it!
The food: seasonal, local, and unforgettable
Under serves a seasonal set menu focused on local ingredients from Southern Norway. You don’t choose individual dishes: the chefs guide you through either a six-course lunch or a 10–12 course dinner. You can pair your meal with wine or opt for a carefully crafted juice pairing, which was surprisingly good.
Each dish feels like it’s telling a story about the region: its coastlines, its farms, its wild landscapes. I’ve had fine dining experiences before, but this was one of the few that didn’t feel pretentious. The food was thoughtful, memorable, and genuinely delicious.
A once-in-a-lifetime experience
Dining 5.5 meters under the water in southern Norway
Exploring Southern Norway
Under is located in Båly, a small town in Lindesnes municipality. If you’re coming from Oslo, expect about a 6-hour drive, making it a great stop if you’re road-tripping along the southern coast. Kristiansand is the closest major city, about 1.5 hours away by car.
There’s a hotel right next to the restaurant called Lindesnes Havhotel, perfect if you want to spend the night and not worry about driving after your meal. It’s also worth checking out the nearby Lindesnes Lighthouse: the southernmost point of mainland Norway! Check out my video about Lindesnes Lighthouse here.
If you’re planning a trip through Southern Norway, you could also include a stop in Kristiansand, known for its charming old town and summer festivals. Check out my video from Kristiansand’s cool new art museum in a silo here!
