Restaurant Iris: A Culinary Odyssey in the Heart of The Fjord
Salmon Eye - Pic by Rasmus Jurkatam
In the picturesque embrace of the Hardanger fjord, a remarkable dining destination is set to make waves. Restaurant Iris, under the creative mastery of Danish chef Anika Madsen, opened on June 21st, 2023. Within the captivating confines of the Salmon Eye, this exclusive restaurant promises a dining experience that defies replication.
At Restaurant Iris, the location is not just a backdrop; it's an integral part of the dining experience. The guests are invited to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of the fjord, the majestic mountains, and the ever-changing elements that shape our daily life. Here, we have the unique privilege of bringing our guests to the heart of our ingredients and landscapes, reversing the traditional dining paradigm.
The experience at Iris is, without exaggeration, a journey. It begins with a picturesque boat trip from the charming town of Rosendal, punctuated by a welcoming snack at Chef Anika Madsen's boathouse on the enchanting island of Snilstveitøy. As you arrive at the jetty of the remarkable floating art installation, Salmon Eye, the evening commences with a multisensory underwater spectacle—a prelude to the grand dining experience that awaits.
The dining room, overlooking the fjord and the towering mountains, becomes the stage for a meticulously curated tasting menu. Weather permitting, the rooftop terrace hosts a course, where flavors are grilled over an open fire, savored in the crisp, invigorating air. As the night's enchantment reaches its zenith, another boat ride awaits to return you to Rosendal's welcoming shores, where a comfortable bed beckons—the perfect conclusion to our extraordinary Expedition Dining at Restaurant Iris.
A Visionary Architectural Gem
Salmon Eye by Håkon Settemsdal
Salmon Eye, an immersive experience center inspired by sustainable marine life, serves as the stage for Restaurant Iris. This architectural marvel is an ode to the wonders of the underwater world, featuring a double-curved ellipsoid design reminiscent of a fisheye. Its ethereal presence seems to float serenely atop the tranquil waters of the Hardanger fjord. Enveloped by Norway's untamed beauty, this unique venue encapsulates the perfect fusion of nature and architecture.
Anika Madsen: The Culinary Maverick
Pics by Tobias Lamberg Torjusen
At the helm of Restaurant Iris stands Anika Madsen, a culinary virtuoso celebrated for her unwavering commitment to sustainability and her insatiable curiosity for exploring the ocean's depths in search of unique ingredients. Anika's culinary journey has been marked by innovation and excellence, having honed her skills in the prestigious kitchens of Copenhagen, including Formel B and Roxie. Her recent role as Head Chef at Fasangården solidified her reputation as the "umami queen."
Madsen's culinary philosophy is rooted in the belief that lesser-known ingredients hold the key to a greener future. She brings a touch of Copenhagen's culinary excellence to the serene shores of Sniltsveitøy, Norway, where she intends to craft extraordinary dishes from ingredients such as invasive red sea urchin and local seaweed. Her menu is a symphony of flavors, showcasing the region's pristine seafood alongside other local treasures like game meat, sheep's milk, and ciders.
The Symbolism of Iris
The name "Iris" carries profound symbolism, signifying both the restaurant's unique location within the "fisheye" structure and the Greek goddess Iris, who bridged the realms of the sea and the heavens. It is a name that encapsulates the essence of the restaurant—a harmonious blend of nature, art, and culinary excellence.
Pics by Tobias Lamberg Torjusen
An Unforgettable Dining Expedition
Accessible only by boat, this extraordinary experience commences with an exploration of the Hardanger fjord by electric boats, setting the stage for the culinary adventure that follows—an 18-course dinner. The expedition lasts for approximately 6 hours.
There’s no specific dress code at Iris, but during the first part of the expedition, guests are required to wear a life jacket. While long dresses are welcome, they may prove challenging to wear with a life jacket.
A Journey Worth Embarking Upon
Restaurant Iris at the Salmon Eye promises to redefine the art of fine dining, offering guests a unique culinary odyssey guided by Anika Madsen's visionary expertise. With its enchanting setting, innovative menu, and attention to detail, Iris beckons those seeking a gastronomic adventure that transcends traditional dining. For those who dare to embark on this voyage, Restaurant Iris is a destination worth savoring—one that promises to leave an indelible mark on the senses and the soul.