ABC Thai Restaurant

Imagine a cozy corner of the exotic at the very edge of the northern world — that's exactly how you could describe ABC Thai Restaurant. This popular establishment in the city of Vardø offers a surprising blend of Thai, Chinese, and even classic English cuisine. Despite the harsh climate of Norway, a warm and friendly atmosphere always reigns inside the restaurant.

The restaurant is famous for its authentic flavors: here you can try the famous tom kha gai, fragrant fish curry, or traditional fish and chips. One of the establishment's features is an excellent collection of drinks, including rare types of beer brought from Svalbard, making dinner here a truly unique experience.

For many travelers, ABC Thai Restaurant becomes a real lifesaver, as it is one of the few places in town with a consistent schedule and very affordable prices by Norwegian standards. The building's modest exterior hides a very cozy interior and staff who are always ready to chat in English, helping guests feel right at home.

For your convenience, we have gathered up-to-date contact information to help you easily find this cozy spot and book a table in advance.

The main reason to visit this establishment is, of course, for a gastronomic journey. You can start your introduction to the menu with classic Thai soups or choose one of the many curry dishes, where the freshest seafood is combined with delicate sauces and vegetables. If you're not in the mood for the exotic, the menu always features juicy burgers or pita bread.

Be sure to pay attention to the chef's recommendations, especially the stir-fries and noodles — they are considered the kitchen's signature. Many visitors come specifically for the signature fish curry, which is perfect for warming up after a walk along the windy coast.

In addition to the food, the establishment offers an excellent selection of drinks. The restaurant owner often shares tips and can recommend rare northern beers or a suitable wine for your order. You can spend the evening in the peaceful setting of the dining room, enjoying a leisurely conversation, or take food to go for a picnic overlooking the Barents Sea.

Finding ABC Thai Restaurant is easy, as it is conveniently located at Kristian 4 gate 3 in the very center of the city. Vardø is a compact town, so most key places here are within walking distance of each other.

If you are arriving in the region from afar, the nearest transport hub is Vardø Airport. You can quickly get from the airport to the city center by taxi or a pre-booked rental car. The journey takes only a few minutes, as the airport is located very close to the city blocks.

For those traveling around northern Norway by car, Vardø is connected to the mainland by a unique undersea tunnel. Once in town, simply follow the navigation to the central streets — the restaurant is located in an area that is pleasant to explore on foot after a long journey.

The history of this establishment began in 2002, when a Norwegian entrepreneur decided to open a place with exotic cuisine in one of the northernmost cities in the world. Since then, ABC Thai Restaurant has become an integral part of the city's gastronomic life, successfully operating for over two decades.

It is amazing how harmoniously Asian traditions have fit into the harsh Arctic context. In the early 2000s, such establishments were a rarity in the Finnmark region, but thanks to the consistent quality of the dishes, the restaurant quickly won the trust of both local fishermen and visiting northern explorers.

Over the years, an international team of professionals has formed here, giving the place a special flavor. The restaurant has survived many seasons and the changing weather of the Barents Sea, remaining a reliable harbor for everyone looking for warmth and delicious food. Today, it is rightfully considered one of the oldest and most respected restaurants in the city.

To fully enjoy the meal and hospitality, we recommend setting aside about 1.5–2 hours for your visit. This is enough time to explore the menu without rushing, wait for fresh dishes to be prepared, and relax in the cozy atmosphere.

During peak hours, especially when many tourists arrive in town, the waiting time may increase slightly, so it's worth having a bit of time to spare. If you are short on time, you can always order takeaway — in this case, the wait will be about 30–45 minutes.

The restaurant operates on a stable schedule, making it very convenient for planning your day in the city. The establishment is open to visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, with doors hospitably opening at 14:00 and closing at 21:00.

Please note that Monday is a day off. During public holidays, opening hours may change, so we advise checking the official Facebook page before your visit for the latest information.

After a hearty lunch or dinner, it's the perfect time to explore other interesting places that Vardø has to offer. The city is famous for its history and unique atmosphere, and most attractions are just steps away from the restaurant.

You can take a walk to an old fortress or stop by one of the local museums to learn more about life at the edge of the world. Here is a list of nearby sites worth visiting: