Spitsbergen: Food and Restaurant Recommendations in February

February in Spitsbergen is another cold and dark month, but the local dining scene continues to offer an escape from the freezing temperatures and a chance to explore unique Arctic flavors. Longyearbyen, the culinary hub of the archipelago, remains a destination for food enthusiasts, with its mix of high-end restaurants, casual dining spots, and local delicacies that highlight the Arctic environment.

Huset, the iconic restaurant in Spitsbergen, continues to be one of the top dining experiences in February. Known for its upscale menu, Huset focuses on using locally sourced ingredients like reindeer, seal, and Arctic char to create dishes that blend Norwegian traditions with modern gourmet techniques. With an extensive wine cellar that boasts thousands of bottles from around the world, Huset is the perfect place for a fine dining experience. The warmth and hospitality inside provide a stark contrast to the icy polar night outside.

For a more relaxed atmosphere, Kroa is another favorite among both locals and tourists. Its rustic, log cabin-inspired interior is a comforting refuge from the winter cold. The menu at Kroa features traditional Norwegian dishes, such as hearty reindeer stew and fish soup, but also includes burgers, pizzas, and international dishes, making it an ideal spot for a variety of tastes. The cozy environment makes it a perfect place to enjoy a meal after a long day of Arctic exploration.

For those craving international flavors, Taste of Thai continues to surprise visitors with its authentic Thai dishes. This small but popular restaurant offers a range of curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes that are prepared with imported ingredients from Thailand. The bold flavors of Thai cuisine offer a refreshing contrast to the more traditional Norwegian meals, and it’s a welcome surprise to find such international fare in such a remote location.

Fruene, the beloved café in Longyearbyen, remains a go-to spot in February for those looking for a warm drink or a sweet treat. Fruene serves freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and hot drinks, including unique Arctic-inspired creations. The café’s cozy atmosphere is perfect for taking a break from the cold, and many visitors enjoy sitting by the window, watching the snow fall while sipping a cup of coffee. Fruene also sells locally made crafts and souvenirs, making it a great spot to pick up a gift or two.

In February, the Arctic char continues to be a highlight on many restaurant menus. This cold-water fish, native to the region, is often served grilled or smoked, and its delicate flavor pairs perfectly with locally grown vegetables like potatoes and beets. Many restaurants take pride in sourcing fresh, local ingredients, offering visitors a true taste of the Arctic.

For a more interactive culinary experience, some tour operators offer cooking workshops or food tours in Longyearbyen. These tours provide a unique opportunity to learn about traditional Arctic foods and preservation techniques, such as drying and smoking fish and meat. Participants often get the chance to taste reindeer jerky, dried fish, and other local delicacies while learning about the challenges of living off the land in the Arctic.

February is also a great time to explore the craft beers produced by the Svalbard Bryggeri. This local brewery uses glacier water from the region to create its unique range of beers. Many of the local restaurants and bars serve Svalbard Bryggeri beers, and visitors can also take a tour of the brewery to learn more about the beer-making process in such an extreme environment. A cold pint of locally brewed beer is the perfect way to end a day of Arctic adventure.

The dining experience in Spitsbergen in February remains a highlight for visitors, offering a mix of comfort, tradition, and innovation. Whether you're enjoying gourmet reindeer dishes at Huset, warming up with a bowl of fish soup at Kroa, or indulging in pastries at Fruene, the food scene in Longyearbyen is a testament to the resilience and creativity of those who live and work in the Arctic.