Cardinal Pub

Right in the heart of the port city of Stavanger lies an establishment widely considered the beer Mecca of Northern Europe. Cardinal Pub is a legendary bar famous for its phenomenal selection of drinks: its collection features around 600 varieties of beer, including rare craft labels and products from local breweries.

Cardinal Pub. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The pub's interior is designed in a classic 80s style, creating an incredibly cozy and laid-back atmosphere. There is no pretension here, but there is a deep respect for the traditions and culture of enjoying a good brew. Norway is known for its strict quality standards, and this bar is a prime example of a world-class establishment.

This spot attracts both locals and tourists from around the world thanks to its skilled bartenders, who can provide a full lecture on any variety from the menu. Whether it's a draft ale from local masters or an exotic bottle from the other side of the world, every guest will find a taste to suit their palate.

For those planning a visit or wishing to book a spot for a tasting, here is the current contact information for the establishment.

The main reason to visit this establishment is, of course, to carefully explore the beer menu. You can order a tasting flight to try several varieties at once, or rely on the bartender's advice to help you navigate hundreds of bottled and draft options. Look out for local brands like Lervig, or search for something truly exotic.

Beyond tastings, the pub is a hub of activity. On Mondays, as part of the "Mandag i Annen" program, enthusiasts gather for presentations of new varieties, and on Wednesdays, there is a unique "Strikk & Drikk" (knit & drink) event. On Sundays, you can often find participants of the "Språkpub" language club practicing Norwegian in an informal setting.

For those looking to deepen their knowledge, the staff conducts professional tastings for groups. Even if you don't consider yourself an expert, simply sitting at a massive wooden table, flipping through the famous "whisky book" or the detailed beer menu, is a great way to feel the authentic rhythm of the city.

Finding this legendary pub is easy, as it is located in the very heart of the city at Skagen 21. It is a bustling area situated in close proximity to the port, so a walk from the central embankment takes only a few minutes.

If you are arriving by public transport, use the buses that go to Stavanger's central stops—from there, it is about a 5–10 minute leisurely walk to the pub. For travelers arriving from Stavanger Airport (SVG), the most convenient option is to take the airport express bus or a train to the central station and then walk, enjoying the city views.

For those who prefer a taxi, simply give the address or the name of the establishment—it is well known to all locals. Keep in mind that parking in the historic center can be limited, so public transport or walking is the optimal choice for visiting this spot.

The history of this place began with the idea of creating a traditional pub with an impeccable reputation, and over the years, the establishment has transformed into a true center of beer culture. It was one of the first in the region to offer such an impressive range of rare and imported varieties, which quickly made it an industry leader.

Notably, for 12 consecutive years, the bar was included in the top 50 best beer venues in the world according to the authoritative resource RateBeer. Even after the portal ceased its active rankings in 2025, the establishment maintains its status as a cult destination, holding high positions in the ratings of craft connoisseurs worldwide.

The pub's international recognition is further evidenced by its mention in the New York Times list of "52 Places to Go." Today, it is not just a bar but a cultural hub where hospitality traditions meet modern trends in tastings and themed gatherings.

If you just want to grab a quick pint in a pleasant setting, 1 hour will be enough. However, most visitors prefer to stay longer to explore the impressive bar menu or chat with the staff.

The optimal time for a visit is between 2 and 3 hours. This is plenty of time to enjoy a tasting flight, take part in one of the themed evenings, or simply relax at a leisurely pace after a busy day of sightseeing.

The pub is open daily, offering guests cozy evenings on both weekdays and weekends. The establishment's schedule is quite flexible, allowing you to drop by for an early aperitif or a late-night wind-down.

Opening Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 15:00 – 01:30;
Friday – Saturday: 12:00 – 01:30;
Sunday: 15:00 – 00:00.

Its central location allows you to combine a visit to the pub with exploring many interesting nearby locations. A stroll through the surrounding area will help you better experience the atmosphere of the port city and see its historical heritage.