My life has been a journey through a tapestry of cultures, each thread adding depth to my understanding of the world. It’s a journey that has led me to the bustling markets of Tokyo, the serene landscapes of Patagonia, the enchanting streets of Venice, and the vibrant markets of Marrakech. However, a recent adventure took me to a place unlike any other I’d ever experienced, a journey into the depths of the North Sea in Norway. This is a story of submerged dining, where the boundaries between the sea and the plate blur, creating a culinary adventure that defies the ordinary.
My quest for culinary and travel exploration led me to the enchanting shores of Norway, a country known for its breathtaking landscapes, pristine waters, and, of course, a rich seafood tradition. Norway’s coastline is dotted with picturesque villages, but it was a remote village named Lindesnes that beckoned me with its promise of an extraordinary dining experience. This village, nestled on the southernmost tip of Norway, is home to an architectural marvel that defies convention—Under.
“Under,” aptly named after the Norwegian word for “wonder,” is a restaurant that epitomizes this term. It is a culinary gem that combines Scandinavian design, sustainability, and marine marvels in a way that is nothing short of extraordinary. Located on the rocky shoreline, Under submerges diners halfway underwater in the North Sea, offering a surreal view of the marine world through an enormous, panoramic acrylic window.
It’s an exploration of this unique restaurant, its 17-course menu that captivated my taste buds, the immersive ambiance and impeccable service, and the remote coastal village that sets the stage for this unparalleled dining experience. It’s a tale of submerged dining, where the sea isn’t just a backdrop but an integral part of the gastronomic journey.
The Marvel That Is “Under” Restaurant
My journey to “Under” began long before I set foot in the restaurant. The drive to Lindesnes itself was an adventure, taking me through Norway’s rugged coastal landscape. The approach to “Under” is a sight to behold. The restaurant resembles a concrete periscope, a stark and angular structure that leads the way into the depths of the North Sea.
As I entered, the sense of wonder continued. The interior of “Under” is a fusion of sleek Scandinavian design and underwater opulence. The dining room boasts an elegant minimalist design with muted tones, ensuring that the expansive views of marine life outside take center stage. However, the pièce de résistance is the 36-foot-wide panoramic window, which offers diners an uninterrupted view of the surrounding seascape.
The ambiance inside “Under” is nothing short of ethereal. While you savor your meal, you can witness the ebb and flow of marine life outside the window, from schools of fish to undulating kelp forests. The ever-changing underwater scenery adds an entrancing and immersive quality to the dining experience. It’s like dining in an otherworldly aquarium, a place where every moment is filled with awe and fascination.
A Dive into the Menu: Culinary Highlights
The menu at “Under” is a symphony of flavors, an homage to the sea and its surroundings. The restaurant offers a set menu with 17 meticulously curated courses, each thoughtfully designed to showcase the flavors and textures of the underwater world. It’s a celebration of marine delicacies that highlights the region’s pristine seafood and embodies the concept of “tide-to-table” dining.
While every course at “Under” is a masterpiece in its own right, there are several that stood out as truly extraordinary:
Squid and Mussels (Served in their natural form): This course arrived, and I was immediately struck by the vibrant colors of these marine creatures. The squid was tender, with a delightful, slightly sweet taste, while the mussels added a briny note that beautifully captured the essence of the sea. The fact that they were served in their natural form, as if plucked directly from the ocean, added to the authenticity of the experience.
Twelve Varieties of Seaweed: This course was a revelation in itself, a deep dive into the world of Norway’s coastal algae. Each variety of seaweed was prepared differently, offering a spectrum of textures and flavors, from umami-rich to slightly briny. It was a surprising and delightful journey for the palate, a testament to the creativity of the chef.
Pollen and Beeswax: This was a unique, honey-inspired course that perfectly embodied the concept of “tide-to-table.” The floral notes of the pollen and the subtle richness of the beeswax introduced a new dimension to the meal, echoing the coastal meadows and wildflowers of the region. It was a harmonious and creative addition to the menu.
Ants: I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to savor a dish featuring ants. They added a delightful, zesty, and slightly citrusy flavor to the course, creating a remarkable contrast to the other offerings. It was a testament to the chef’s creativity and willingness to push culinary boundaries. Dining on ants is an experience that is not easily forgotten.
Centennial Clam (Living for Over a Century): The centennial clam was undoubtedly the highlight of the meal and a symbol of “Under’s” commitment to sustainability. This exceptional dish, featuring a clam with a lifespan of at least 100 years, was both a culinary marvel and a statement about responsible sourcing. The flavor was clean, briny, and incredibly fresh, reflecting the age and purity of the clam. It’s a dish that encapsulates the very essence of “Under” and its unique connection to the sea.
Every dish at “Under” is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to sustainability, creativity, and a deep respect for the ingredients. It’s an exploration of flavors that draws inspiration from the surrounding marine environment, resulting in a dining experience that is both a feast for the palate and a celebration of nature’s bounty.
Price and Service: A Commitment to Excellence
“Under” is not your ordinary dining experience, and its pricing reflects this uniqueness. The menu consists of 17 courses, with prices averaging around 400 euros per person. While it may be on the higher end, it’s a reflection of the restaurant’s dedication to sustainability, innovation, and the exceptional quality of its ingredients. The commitment to responsible sourcing and the effort put into creating a truly unique dining experience are evident in every aspect of the meal.
The service at “Under” is impeccable. The staff is not only knowledgeable about the dishes but also passionate about the restaurant’s mission. They guide you through the journey with grace and warmth, making the entire experience more than just a meal—it’s an exploration of the sea’s bounty. The service enhances the immersive quality of the dining experience and ensures that every guest feels welcomed and well-informed.
Location: A Journey to the Edge of the Earth
The location of “Under” is integral to its allure. Lindesnes, where the restaurant is nestled, is a remote coastal village at the southernmost tip of Norway. The journey to get here is an adventure in itself, with the rugged coastal landscape adding to the sense of awe and wonder that “Under” inspires. It’s a place that feels like the edge of the Earth, where the North Sea stretches out as far as the eye can see. The remote location adds to the sense of exclusivity and adventure, making the visit to “Under” a journey to a destination that truly feels like a hidden gem.
My dining experience at “Under” was a sensory feast that left an indelible mark on my culinary adventures. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and its unique concept of submerged dining set it apart from any other dining establishment I’ve visited. “Under” offers a culinary journey that celebrates the sea, its bounty, and the creative genius of its chefs.
From savoring the pristine flavors of seafood to witnessing the ethereal dance of marine life outside the window, every moment at “Under” is a reminder of the majesty of the sea. It’s not just a meal; it’s a journey into the heart of the North Sea, a place where nature and gastronomy converge to create an unparalleled dining experience. For those who seek culinary excellence, sustainable dining, and a truly unique adventure, “Under” is a must-visit destination.
In my book, I would rate “Under” a perfect 10/10. It’s an experience that transcends dining; it’s a rendezvous with the sea, a celebration of nature’s bounty, and a testament to the art of culinary innovation. It’s an adventure worth embarking on, a journey beneath the waves that every traveler and food lover should experience at least once in their lifetime. It’s a destination where wonder truly resides, and the sea’s treasures are transformed into extraordinary culinary masterpieces.
So, with these memories etched in my mind and my taste buds still tingling from the extraordinary flavors of “Under,” I can only encourage you to embark on your own journey into the depths of the North Sea. It’s a voyage that will not only satisfy your appetite but also nourish your soul with the wonder of the sea. Bon appétit!