Opened in the spring of 2023, this dining marvel finds its home in the strikingly designed Salmon Eye, an architectural masterpiece reminiscent of a fisheye. This ellipsoid creation, a collaborative effort between Kvorning Design and Brigh Norway (now Creative Technologies), offers an immersive dining experience enveloped in dramatic natural beauty. Spearheading the culinary journey is renowned Danish chef Anika Madsen, whose passion for sustainable and locally-sourced ingredients weaves a captivating narrative in every dish.
The Location
Located within the Salmon Eye installation in the Hardanger fiord, the journey to Iris itself is an adventure. Guests embark on an electric boat from Rosendal, experiencing a welcoming snack at Chef Madsen’s boathouse en route. The evening progresses with a multisensory experience, culminating in a dining room with stunning fjord and mountain vistas. Weather permitting, a course is served on the rooftop terrace, grilled over an open fire.
The region surrounding Iris, Vestland, is a tapestry of Norwegian experiences. From the towering fjords to the energetic urban life in Bergen, it offers a diverse array of activities. Visitors can hike through Jotunheimen National Park, explore the historic Bryggen Wharf, or taste the local specialty, Vestland’s famed cider. This region provides a perfect backdrop for Iris, adding to its allure as a destination for both adventure and gastronomic delight.
The Menu: Expedition Dining
Chef Anika Madsen crafts a menu that not only delights the palate but also tells a story of sustainability and innovation within our global food system. Her commitment to local and sustainable produce shines through in signature dishes like the red sea urchin, freshly harvested from nearby waters, and the exquisite regional game meats. Madsen’s exploration of local seaweed varieties and unique marine ingredients infuses each creation with the essence of the Hardanger fiord.
Surrounded by the fiord, the restaurant has access to a diverse range of fresh seafood and wild ingredients from the neighboring mountains. Iris offers more than just a meal; it offers an immersive dining experience nicknamed “Expedition Dining”, which offers a narrative about our global food challenges and the innovations that might bridge the gap.
Complementing the food is a meticulously crafted drinks menu. Wine pairings are carefully selected to harmonize with the complex flavors of the dishes. For those seeking non-alcoholic options, Iris presents a range of intriguing alternatives. The set menu, accommodating most dietary preferences, mirrors the restaurant’s ethos of attention to detail and commitment to an exceptional dining experience.
The set menu, priced at NOK 3,200, with optional wine pairings from NOK 2,500, and non-alcoholic pairings from NOK 1,500, is a testament to this ethos.
To reserve your spot in this extraordinary culinary expedition, contact us today and prepare to be whisked away on a journey that tantalizes the senses and celebrates the beauty and bounty of Norway’s Hardanger fiord.
