HIMKOK has been a stalwart on The World’s 50 Best Bars for years, under the watchful eye of bar manager Maros Dzurus. On a recent trip to Oslo, when I mentioned I was visiting the bar for the first time, I received the same knowing look from locals, hotel staff and friends who had already had the experience for themselves. I knew I was in for a treat.
After a day exploring Oslo, filled with saunas, fjords and The Scream, we were welcomed with open arms into the 1930s styled bar. First up was the ever popular ‘Bun’ cocktail with sweet and sugary flavours to emulate the taste of Skolebrød, a typical Norwegian pastry. Next, was the refreshing and tart ‘Rhubarb’, made with HIMKOK Gin, Martini Bitters, Tio Pepe Fino Sherry and Orange Bitters.
We then delved deeper into the menu and tried a signature drink called ‘Birch’, which was a martini-style cocktail served with a delicious and juicy blue cheese stuffed olive. I was told to savour the olive but alas, patience has never been my strong suit…
I guess I will just have to go back again and do it properly, adding to my long reasons of reasons to return.
The staff were meticulous and treated each cocktail with equal love and affection. Each glass has been painstakingly chosen for the specific cocktail and everything down to the bespoke ice cubes with the HIMKOK logo etched into them, was perfection. It was clear however that some of the bartenders had their favourites and we left HIMKOK and walked back into the dazzling late summer evening in the city with names of cocktails on our lips to try next time from the amazing team.
With summer now slowly slipping away, I often think about thirsty guests bundling into the cosy, cavernous space in the frostier months with fur coats on, ready for a fiery drink. The dark and intimate space is distinctly Nordic and a standalone reason to return to the Norwegian capital.
‘HIMKOK’ translates to ‘moonshine’ and with the autumn and winter seasons just around the corner, we can’t wait to see what concoctions are aptly created by the expert bartenders, under the cover of darkness.
For more information, see here: www.himkok.no
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