Arresten

Arresten is a unique restaurant and one of the most colorful attractions in the city of Andenes. The establishment is located in the historic building of the old city prison, which gave it its name ("Arresten" translates as "The Arrest" or "The Lockup"). This place artfully combines grim history with the hospitality of modern Norway.

The interior of the restaurant carefully preserves the spirit of the past: massive walls and details reminiscent of the building's original purpose create a unique yet cozy atmosphere. It is not just a food spot, but a real cultural landmark, where the walls "tell" stories.

Tourists come here not only for delicious food but also for the experience. Lunch or dinner in a former prison cell is an experience that is remembered for a long time and allows you to feel the authentic character of old Andenes.

The Arresten restaurant is conveniently located in the historic city center, and it is easy to find during a walk. To book a table or check the current menu, we recommend finding the establishment's official page on social networks or search engines, as contact details may change.

The main thing to do at Arresten is to embark on a gastronomic journey. The restaurant's menu is famous for dishes made from local products, especially fresh seafood, which the region is rich in. Tasting traditional Norwegian cuisine in such a setting is a distinct pleasure.

Do not miss the opportunity to explore the interior. Attentive visitors will notice preserved architectural elements of the 19th-century prison, such as original cell doors and bars, which are now harmoniously blended into the decor of the dining hall. This is a great place for atmospheric photos.

In the evening, you can simply relax here with a glass of drink, enjoying the cozy and slightly mysterious atmosphere. The friendly staff is often ready to share a couple of stories about the building's past, making the visit even more educational.

Getting to the Arresten restaurant is very simple, as it is located in the very center of Andenes at Prinsensgate 6. The city is quite compact, so from most hotels and guest houses, you can walk here in just 5–15 minutes, enjoying the street views.

If you are in the port area or arrived by bus, the walk to the restaurant will also not take much time. Head towards the central part of the city; the old building stands out noticeably. Using a taxi within the center is usually not required, but a car can be called if the weather is poor.

The building where the restaurant is now located has a rich history dating back to the second half of the 19th century. Initially, it was built and used for a long time as the city prison (in Norwegian arresten), where disturbers of public order were held. It is one of the oldest surviving stone buildings in Andenes.

Remarkably, despite its rather gloomy original purpose, the building has always been an integral part of city life. During the restoration and transformation of the site into a restaurant, the owners showed respect for the past by preserving the original brickwork and some layout elements.

Today, Arresten serves as a vivid example of how historical heritage can find a second life. Guests of the establishment can literally touch history, dining within walls that served completely different purposes more than a century ago, which adds a special flavor to the visit.

You should usually set aside 1.5 to 2 hours to visit the Arresten restaurant. This time will be quite enough to leisurely enjoy dinner, try local delicacies, and appreciate the unique interior of the establishment.

If you plan to visit in the evening or during the height of the tourist season, when it can be crowded, it might be worth allowing a little more time for pleasant conversation and relaxation in the atmospheric setting.

The opening hours of the Arresten restaurant may vary depending on the time of year. In the summer season, when many tourists come to Andenes, the establishment is usually open longer, allowing guests to enjoy dinners in the light of the midnight sun.

In the winter period, operating hours may be reduced. We strongly recommend checking the current schedule on the official website or the restaurant's social media page immediately before your planned visit.

A visit to the restaurant can be perfectly combined with exploring the surroundings, allowing you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of this seaside town. Just a few minutes' walk away are monuments associated with the harsh life of fishermen, as well as other interesting gastronomic spots and museums.