Oslo is relatively new to the craft-cocktail scene, but it more than makes up for its tardiness with Himkok. Ranked at No. 10 on the World’s Best Bars list for 2023, as decided by the international drinks industry, Himkok is more than a watering hole; it’s a celebration of the indigenous ingredients of Norway and the country’s cultural heritage.

Walk into the urbane first-floor lounge, and you’ll see a small copper still behind glass, which produces the aquavit used in many of the experimental cocktails here. Himkok (the name translates to “moonshine”) also makes its own gin and vodka, and all are on display behind the bar, in bottles adorned with the establishment’s striking snake-head logo. Sit at the bar and flip through the extensive cocktail menu for a lesson on Norway’s culinary and artistic traditions. Each drink is based around a single local ingredient, such as sweet cherry, birch, seaweed – even the ubiquitous caramelized milk cheese, brunost. The ingredients are represented on the menu with botanical illustrations and examples of embroidery from Nordic folk art. Be sure to try the popular sage cocktail, which will be made by an affable white-jacketed bartender using aquavit, apricot liqueur, sage and honey syrup, lime, and pear cider.

There are other venues throughout the Himkok complex; upstairs is an outdoor area with a cider bar and garden. Plan to stay a while to savor a superb drinking experience.