EatbyLe

There’s something about Restaurant Substans that brings it all back—the excitement of discovering great food, the feeling of being truly taken care of, and the reason I fell in love with dining out in Oslo in the first place.

A Prime Location and a Familiar Team

Tucked between Nationaltheatret and Aker Brygge, Substance sits in the old Aquarie building, adding a bit of local history to the modern experience. At the helm is Håkan, previously of Apostrophe, joined by familiar faces like Alexander.

The Experience Starts Strong

Right from the first bite, you’ll know you’re in for something special. Think katsu with tenderloin, caviar, oysters, and more. I won’t spoil the entire menu—but let’s just say, the surprises keep coming.

The tasting menu includes 10 servings for 1450 NOK, which is a great value for an omakase-style experience in Oslo.

💡 Pro tip: Don’t skip the snacks at the start. Some of the most memorable bites arrive before the “official” courses begin.

Wine, Space, and Vibe

I didn’t go for the wine pairing this time. Instead, with the help of their excellent sommelier, we landed on a stunning bottle of rosé and a champagne—ideal choices for a summer evening.

The design of the space is clean and minimal. Downstairs, you’ll find the open kitchen where you can sit at the bar or a table for the full menu. Upstairs, there’s a more casual wine bar offering à la carte options.

Price and Service

We ended up paying about 2500 NOK per person, including the tasting menu and two bottles of wine shared among three people. For this quality of food, wine, and service in Oslo, it’s a solid deal.

What really sets Restaurant Substans apart is the service: friendly, relaxed, and confident. You feel well taken care of, without anything feeling stiff or overly formal.

Final Thoughts

Restaurant Substans is already one of my favorite new places to eat in Oslo. It’s a restaurant that delivers on every level—food, atmosphere, and hospitality. Whether you’re a longtime local or visiting for a few days, it’s a spot well worth booking.