Bølgen & Moi

Description:

• It might be a member of a chain, but it's hardly McDonald's -- in fact, it serves the finest cuisine in Stavanger's increasingly competitive culinary market. This restaurant -- a member of a high-quality and elite dining chain that now stretches across Norway -- lies on the ground floor of the avant-garde premises of Stavanger's oil museum. Its interior is as spare, angular, metallic, and minimalist as the museum itself. Part of its drama derives from its position, straddling a pier and a rocky headland jutting into Stavanger's harbor. Illuminated mostly by candles, the setting is a foil for cuisine that's more elaborate and cutting-edge than what you'll find at many nearby competitors. You know you're going to dine well when you're served such starters as potato soup with sautéed foie gras and white truffle oil, or asparagus with poached quail eggs and a chive-studded hollandaise. To see the heights that the chef can reach, order the skate with fresh herbs from the garden and extra-virgin olive oil, or the honey-glazed duck breast.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2010