Curator’s statement
Svalbard holds a cherished place in my heart, marking my first foray into the Arctic Circle. From the enchanting glow of the midnight sun to reindeer casually wandering through town and walruses lounging on the beach near the marina — every moment felt magical. What surprised me most was discovering exceptional culinary experiences in this isolated coal-mining outpost. This guide encourages you to feast on the culinary wonders at the top of the world!
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Where to stay in Svalbard
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Things to do in Svalbard
Breaking through the ice in Billefjorden
Explore Longyearbyen
Start your Arctic adventure by discovering Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost settlement. Wander the colorful streets lined with reindeer, popping into cozy cafés, art galleries and local shops. Visit the Svalbard Museum to learn about the history, wildlife and daily life in the Arctic. Whether sipping coffee or soaking in the unique culture, Longyearbyen is the perfect introduction to Svalbard.
Coffee with sled dogs at the Husky Café
After exploring town, head just outside Longyearbyen for a cozy visit to the Husky Café. Enjoy a warm drink while surrounded by friendly sled dogs — the perfect way to relax and meet some of Svalbard’s most famous four-legged residents. A heartwarming stop for dog lovers and anyone seeking an authentic Arctic encounter.
Tour Svalbard Bryggeri: The world’s Northernmost brewery
Cap off your time in town with a tour (and tasting!) at Svalbard Bryggeri, the world’s northernmost brewery. Learn how glacier water becomes exceptional Arctic craft beer. Hear the inspiring story of how this brewery made history by changing Norwegian law to brew in Svalbard. The beer is not just a novelty — it’s genuinely delicious.
Fjord cruise to Billefjorden
Venture out from Longyearbyen on a stunning fjord cruise to Billefjorden, where Arctic wildlife and jaw-dropping landscapes await. Glide past dramatic bird cliffs, watch for whales, seals and seabirds and if you're lucky, spot a polar bear on the ice. Ice conditions permitting, you’ll also get breathtaking views of Nordenskiöld Glacier — one of Svalbard’s most iconic sights.
Walrus safari: Hurtigruten Svalbard
Next, head out on a Walrus Safari with Hurtigruten Svalbard, and get up close to these fascinating Arctic giants. Cruise to known walrus haul-out sites and observe them lounging on beaches or ice floes, while your guide shares fascinating insights about walrus behavior and the Arctic ecosystem. Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of Svalbard’s rugged coastline — a must for wildlife enthusiasts.
Visit the Global Seed Vault
End your Svalbard journey with a stop at the Global Seed Vault, one of the world’s most important conservation projects. Though visitors can't enter, viewing the famous entrance built deep into the permafrost is an iconic experience. Learn how this “Doomsday Vault” protects millions of seeds from around the globe, ensuring future food security for generations to come.
Places to eat & drink in Svalbard
One of the many courses at Huset - pears. Yum!
Huset Restaurant
Huset is one of Svalbard’s most renowned fine dining destinations. It was also home to one of the most unforgettable culinary experiences I've ever had. Their 14-course tasting menu with wine pairings was absolutely mind-blowing. It takes you on a culinary journey through the Arctic with dishes like reindeer, seal, Arctic char and other local delicacies. Each course was beautifully presented, creative and bursting with flavors I had never encountered before. It is a true culinary adventure that pushes boundaries in the best way possible. Combined with one of Scandinavia’s finest wine cellars, Huset is a must-visit for any food lover seeking a world-class dining experience in the High Arctic.
Funktionærmessen Restaurant (Funken Lodge)
Conveniently located inside Funken Lodge, where we stayed, Funktionærmessen was the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a relaxing, elegant dinner after our long journey to Svalbard. The dinner was absolutely delicious, featuring beautifully crafted dishes made with local ingredients like reindeer and Arctic char. Breakfasts were equally impressive, with a generous spread that included everything you could want to start your day right. And let’s not forget the breathtaking views over Longyearbyen and the surrounding mountains — dining here felt special every single time. Whether you’re a guest at Funken Lodge or just visiting for a meal, Funktionærmessen is a must for both dinner and breakfast.
Gruvelageret
Set in a historic miners' warehouse on the edge of town, Gruvelageret offers one of the most romantic and atmospheric dining experiences in Svalbard. The rustic, candlelit interior, filled with mining relics, creates an intimate and cozy vibe that pairs perfectly with their four-course tasting menu with wine pairing — which was absolutely divine. Each dish highlighted Arctic ingredients with creativity and elegance, but the chocolate mousse with sea buckthorn and caramelized hazelnuts stole the show — truly to die for. If you’re looking for a memorable night out that combines history, ambiance and incredible food, Gruvelageret should be at the top of your list.
Kroa
With its cozy log-cabin vibe, Kroa is the perfect place to relax and refuel after a day of Arctic exploration. They're famous for their moose burger, and while I was skeptical at first, it turned out to be surprisingly delicious — definitely worth a try! For those craving something more familiar, their wood-fired pizzas are fantastic. My partner was thrilled with the pepperoni, bacon and pineapple pizza, which was the perfect comfort food after a few nights of adventurous dining. Kroa’s hearty meals, laid-back atmosphere and friendly service make it a great choice for all appetites.
Stationen
Located right in the center of Longyearbyen, Stationen is a casual, welcoming spot perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner. Their reindeer stew was hands down the best we had in Svalbard — rich, flavorful and comforting. I was thrilled to find that their fish and chips were absolutely top-notch — crispy, perfectly cooked and satisfying. With generous portions, reasonable prices and a friendly vibe, Stationen is a fantastic choice when you’re craving hearty, delicious food without the fuss.
Need to know
Book tours and restaurants in advance: Svalbard may feel remote, but it’s a popular destination with limited spots for activities and dining. Many of the best restaurants and excursions (like dog sledding, walrus safaris and fjord cruises) fill up quickly, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
Pack for all kinds of weather: Even in summer, the weather in Svalbard can be unpredictable. Layers are essential! Bring a windproof and waterproof outer layer. Pack warm base layers, gloves and a hat — even in July and August, temperatures can be chilly, especially on the water.
Be aware of polar bear safety: Svalbard is polar bear country, and safety is taken very seriously. You cannot leave Longyearbyen on foot without a rifle (or a guide who carries one). Most excursions include an armed guide, so always book through reputable operators when venturing outside town.
The midnight sun is magical but affects sleep: From April to August, the sun doesn’t set. While this is an unforgettable part of the Arctic experience, it can make sleeping tricky. Pack an eye mask if your accommodation doesn’t have blackout curtains.
Bring a sense of adventure and curiosity: Svalbard is a place like no other — raw, wild and breathtakingly beautiful. Come prepared to embrace the unexpected, and you’ll have an unforgettable Arctic experience.
Travel Advisor
Sarah Elwell
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