Biggest Underwater Restaurant On Earth

There are many amazing underwater dining options, but none compares to ‘Under’, the biggest underwater restaurant on earth.

Located in Lindesnes, Norway, the place is unique and quite sensational. It is a 1.5-hour drive from Kristiansand, the region’s main city and transport hub. It has an airport and ferry connections to Denmark, and also train connections to Oslo and Stavanger.

‘Under’ in Norwegian has a double meaning, meaning both below and wonder.

Unlike other such places, which resemble an underwater aquarium, Under is the real deal and has won several prestigious awards.

Forbes Magazine called ‘Under’, one of the most remarkable restaurants in ‘newer times’ and appreciated its 18-course tasting menu, which consists of the finest Nordic delicacies.

It secured a place on the Forbes list of the 10 coolest places to eat in 2020 and also received a one-star Michelin rating, which it still holds to this day.

The idea of the restaurant was the brainchild of entrepreneur brothers Stig and Gaute Ubostad. It became official in 2016, and the project cost around 70 million Norwegian Kroner or 8.5 million USD.

The largest underwater restaurant opened on March 20, 2019. It is the only underwater restaurant in Europe and only the third such place across the world.

It’s a 500 square metre space that can accommodate 90 guests at once. It also doubles as a laboratory, aiding research in marine biology.

The place is known for its unique architecture, striking interior and gourmet food. Designed by Norwegian Architecture firm Snohetta, the restaurant received widespread media attention and was booked by 7500 people on the first day of its opening. Till today, people have to wait for days or months to get a table at this restaurant.

Project manager Rune Grasdal stated that the most challenging part was to make the design simple, yet appealing and different by removing everything that did not fit in their concept.

The focus was on functionality so people could go down to the seabed safely and easily. Materials had to be chosen carefully so the structure could withstand the strong waves, currents and rough weather conditions.

The firm also furnished the place with its colour palette, textiles and other interior details, including furniture.

It also won the Wallpaper Design Awards 2020 for Best New Restaurant.

The restaurant has a massive glass wall which allows one to see several fish and see rain whip up the ocean surface.

It is a unique experience irrespective of the weather and seasons, though it is something else when the weather is stormy.

The restaurant has an amazing ambience, according to guests who say they felt safe, warm and well-attended. Local oak details feature prominently throughout the restaurant.

Talking about the food, Head Chef Bernt Saetre focused on natural elements. He approached his surroundings with an open mind and combined tradition with modernity in his cooking, taking a ‘binocular approach.’

According to the chef, the menu is seasonal and has 10 to 12 courses. In 2024, the restaurant opened with a new concept, yet its philosophy remains the same: giving guests an unforgettable experience and showcasing the local ingredients from Southern Norway.

Apart from Under, there are many exciting things to do in Lindesnes.

One of them is a visit to the Lindesnes Lighthouse located at the southernmost tip of Norway. It is a popular sunset viewing spot, and many people come here for the same reason. One can also go to the visitor centre or even book an overnight stay.

The city of Mandal should not be left out if you wish to see traditional white wooden houses and narrow streets, a characteristic of small towns in Southern Norway. It also boasts some of the best beaches in the country.

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