Restaurant Schrøder

Nestled in the heart of St. Hanshaugen at Waldemar Thranes gate 8, Restaurant Schrøder is one of Oslo's last-standing traditional eateries—a true gem that has resisted time and trends. With its cozy, relaxed atmosphere, Schrøder is a meeting place for a diverse crowd: loyal regulars, neighborhood locals, and curious newcomers seeking a slice of Oslo’s storied past.

From the outside, Schrøder might not catch your eye with its modest façade, but step inside and you'll be transported back in time. The walls are adorned with striking paintings by Sigurd Fosnes from the 1920s, capturing nostalgic scenes of old Oslo, including Gamle Aker, Enerhaugen, and Torggata. Among these artworks is a special painting featuring Restaurant Schrøder’s original location at Torggata 14, offering a glimpse into its roots.

The restaurant’s history dates back to 1925, when Hans Schrøder took over Elise Pettersen’s café, which had been a beloved local spot since 1912. Originally located at the corner of Torggata and Henrik Ibsens gate, just a stone's throw from Youngstorget, the restaurant was forced to move when the building was demolished in 1954 to make way for the new Folkets Hus. In 1956, Schrøder reopened in a new building at its current location, which itself has a rich history, having housed restaurants since 1900.

But Schrøder is more than just a restaurant—it’s a literary landmark, immortalized in Jo Nesbø’s world-famous crime novels featuring the hard-boiled detective Harry Hole. Schrøder serves as Harry's favorite haunt, a place where he nurses his troubles with a drink, sinking into the comfort of its old wooden tables and dim lighting. It’s in these familiar surroundings that Harry Hole contemplates his next move, grapples with personal demons, and unwinds after chasing down Oslo’s most sinister criminals. The restaurant’s atmosphere, steeped in history and character, makes it the perfect backdrop for Harry’s gritty world.

Schrøder’s connection to Harry Hole and Jo Nesbø reached a new height in 2016 when Hollywood came knocking to film scenes from Nesbø’s thriller The Snowman right inside the restaurant. This iconic location, with its vintage charm and storied walls, provided an authentic slice of Oslo life, forever linking it to the cinematic adaptation of Nesbø’s dark universe. Sadly the movie is not that so good.

So whether you’re a fan of Jo Nesbø’s novels, a lover of classic Norwegian cuisine, or simply someone who appreciates the allure of a bygone era, Restaurant Schrøder offers a nice experience that’s as much about soaking in the atmosphere as it is about the food. Here, you’re not just dining—you’re stepping into the pages of Oslo’s literary and cultural history.