As the soft waves of Lake Levanger lapped gently against the shore and the crisp Norwegian air filled my lungs, I found myself at one of the most idyllic spots in the region. A small lakeside café, its warmth and charm contrasting perfectly with the chilly breeze, welcomed me with open arms. The sound of the water, the rustling of the leaves in the trees, and the distant call of birds created a peaceful soundtrack to my day. The café, nestled just a stone’s throw from the water’s edge, was a cozy haven, offering a perfect escape from the world. The scent of freshly brewed Norwegian coffee wafted through the air, tempting me to step inside.
The combination of stunning natural beauty and the comfort of a steaming cup of coffee made for an experience I’ll never forget. Norway’s coffee culture is renowned for its quality and warmth, and Levanger, with its lakeside cafés and tranquil atmosphere, is the perfect place to indulge in this cherished tradition. In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through some of the best lakeside cafés in Levanger, where you can enjoy a cozy coffee break, explore delicious local treats, and embrace the essence of Norwegian life.
1. Café Dromedaren: A Hidden Gem by the Water
As I wandered through Levanger’s charming streets, I stumbled upon a café that instantly captured my heart—Café Dromedaren. Nestled by the lake, this quaint café exudes a rustic yet modern charm that makes it feel like a hidden treasure. Its cozy, wooden interior invites you to sit by the window with a warm cup of coffee and enjoy the breathtaking views of the lake and mountains beyond.
The café’s specialty is its freshly brewed Norwegian coffee, which is rich and smooth with just the right amount of intensity. There’s something magical about sipping coffee while gazing out over the water, and Café Dromedaren offers the perfect environment to do just that. What I loved most was the warm, welcoming atmosphere, with friendly baristas who are happy to chat about the local coffee scene.
Signature Dishes:
- Norwegian Kanelbolle (Cinnamon Bun): A must-try! The cinnamon bun here is soft, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. Its sweet, spicy aroma fills the café as soon as you walk in, and it pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee.
- Smørbrød (Norwegian Open Sandwich): For a savory snack, the Smørbrød topped with fresh salmon and dill was a delightful treat. The combination of the perfectly toasted bread and the creamy butter made for an unforgettable bite.
Location: Café Dromedaren, Levanger, is situated just a few minutes’ walk from the lake’s edge at Kanalveien 6.
Prices:
- Coffee (Latte, Cappuccino, Americano): Around NOK 35–50
- Cinnamon Bun: NOK 45
- Smørbrød: NOK 95–150 depending on the toppings.
How to Book: Café Dromedaren doesn’t require reservations as it has a casual, walk-in policy. However, if you’re planning to visit during peak hours or weekends, I recommend calling ahead or checking their website for any updates. Their official website also offers some information on events and special promotions.
Maximize Discounts: Keep an eye on their social media pages for seasonal promotions. Occasionally, they offer a “coffee and pastry” combo at a discounted rate.
2. Bryggerekka Kafé: A Waterfront Delight
Next, I made my way to Bryggerekka Kafé, another charming lakeside spot in Levanger. Located right on the water’s edge, this café has a fantastic atmosphere—particularly when you sit outside on their terrace during warmer months, where you can enjoy your coffee while watching the boats drift by. The café is housed in a historical building, and its décor reflects Levanger’s rich heritage. With exposed brick walls, vintage furniture, and large windows overlooking the lake, it’s impossible not to feel at ease here.
Bryggerekka’s coffee is brewed to perfection, offering a slightly stronger taste than most European coffees but without overwhelming bitterness. The coffee menu is extensive, with options ranging from the classic espresso to more creative concoctions. Their flat white, for instance, was an absolute standout. It was velvety, smooth, and balanced, a perfect pick-me-up for a day by the water.
Signature Dishes:
- Rømmegrøt (Norwegian Sour Cream Porridge): A warm bowl of Rømmegrøt is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy and slightly tangy, it’s served with sugar, cinnamon, and a dollop of butter. It’s the perfect dish to pair with a hot cup of coffee, especially on cool mornings.
- Norwegian Waffles with Jam and Sour Cream: Light and fluffy, these waffles are served with generous portions of jam and sour cream, giving them the perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Location: Bryggerekka Kafé is located at Bryggerekka 4, right on the waterfront in Levanger.
Prices:
- Coffee (Flat White, Cappuccino): NOK 40–60
- Rømmegrøt: NOK 85
- Waffles: NOK 65
How to Book: While this café is typically walk-in, it’s popular among locals, so booking a table during weekends or holidays through their [phone line](+47 74 05 43 21) is a good idea.
Maximize Discounts: Check out their Facebook page for announcements of any happy hour deals or local events where you might score discounts.
3. Havfruen Kafé: Where Coffee Meets Art
Havfruen Kafé offers a different kind of lakeside coffee experience. This café is located in a charming, slightly more modern building by the lake. The interior is artistic, with local artwork adorning the walls, making it an inspiring place to enjoy a quiet moment. The café’s atmosphere is perfect for people who appreciate the arts and those looking to unwind in a peaceful setting.
Their coffee selection is small but exceptional. I was particularly impressed by their Norwegian “Kaffe Kopp”—a traditional drip-brewed coffee served in a lovely, delicate porcelain cup. The coffee was robust yet smooth, with a slight nutty aftertaste that lingered pleasantly on the palate.
Signature Dishes:
- Kjøttkaker (Norwegian Meatballs): Served with mashed potatoes, peas, and gravy, this hearty meal was a true taste of Norway. The meatballs were juicy and tender, with just the right amount of seasoning.
- Bløtkake (Norwegian Cream Cake): A light, airy sponge cake layered with whipped cream and fruit. It’s a local favorite and an indulgent dessert to end your meal with.
Location: Havfruen Kafé is located at Strandveien 2, Levanger, with stunning views over the lake.
Prices:
- Coffee (Kaffe Kopp): NOK 45
- Kjøttkaker: NOK 150
- Bløtkake: NOK 70
How to Book: Reservations are recommended, especially if you’re planning to visit for lunch or dinner. You can book via their website or by calling their phone number at +47 74 05 45 30.
Maximize Discounts: They often have lunch specials, so visiting between 12–2 PM may offer you a more affordable experience.
4. Levanger Kaffebar: A Modern Twist on Tradition
For those who prefer a more contemporary vibe, Levanger Kaffebar is a must-visit. Situated along the lake, this modern coffee bar offers an extensive selection of coffees, teas, and pastries. With minimalist décor, bright lighting, and a friendly, casual atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to sit back and relax, enjoying the view of the lake while sipping on your beverage of choice.
Levanger Kaffebar prides itself on sourcing high-quality beans from local roasters, ensuring each cup has a rich and unique flavor profile. Their signature coffee is a strong, aromatic espresso shot—smooth with just the right balance of acidity. Paired with one of their signature pastries, it’s a perfect start to your day in Levanger.
Signature Dishes:
- Bacon and Cheese Scone: A savory treat, flaky and warm, with crispy bacon and melted cheese that makes each bite more delicious than the last.
- Norwegian Brown Cheese Sandwich: A classic open-faced sandwich topped with Norwegian brown cheese, making for a unique and tasty snack.
Location: Levanger Kaffebar is located at Torggata 7, Levanger, just a short walk from the lake.
Prices:
- Espresso: NOK 30
- Scone: NOK 40
- Brown Cheese Sandwich: NOK 80
How to Book: Levanger Kaffebar does not typically require reservations, but if you’re planning to visit during peak times, it’s a good idea to check availability via their Instagram page.
Maximize Discounts: They offer a loyalty card for frequent visitors, where after a certain number of drinks, you get a free coffee.
Booking Your Norwegian Coffee Experience: Travel Platforms
To help you plan your trip to Levanger and enjoy these lovely cafés, I recommend the following platforms for booking your flights, accommodation, and activities:
- Flights: Use Skyscanner to compare flights and find the best deals to Norway.
- Accommodation: For a variety of accommodation options in Levanger, I recommend Booking.com to find the best deals, whether you’re looking for a charming lakeside cabin or a cozy guesthouse.
- Restaurant Reservations: Use Bookatable to secure reservations at popular restaurants and cafés in Levanger, ensuring you don’t miss out on the local culinary experience.
Final Thoughts
Enjoying a cup of Norwegian coffee by the lake in Levanger is a truly unforgettable experience. The serene ambiance of the cafés, combined with the stunning natural scenery, creates a perfect setting for relaxation and reflection. Whether you’re sipping on a traditional espresso or indulging in a local pastry, these lakeside cafés offer a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can savor the simple pleasures of life. If you’re planning a trip to Levanger, make sure to set aside time to visit these cafés—you won’t regret it!
