Kunstnernes Hus Kino is the home of an artist-run foundation which presents both Norwegian and foreign contemporary art in a way that is accessible to us non- artists. The cool modernist building, right by the Royal Palace Park, has a newly renovated art house cinema, exhibition rooms, bookstore and a great pizza restaurant/bar in the foyer.

I’m not particularly artistic but find that the well-curated selection of films at Kunstnernes Hus Kino appeals to most people that get a bit tired of the standard multiplex offerings. You can also bring your drink from the bar into the cinema, which is seldom nowadays. The cinema at Kunstnernes runs from Friday to Sunday and focuses on films that wouldn’t usually be shown at mainstream cinemas and they have a good overview on their website (also in English). Its the ideal activity for a chilled winter evening in Oslo.

The restaurant in the lobby is run by Lofthus Samvirkelag which makes some of the best pizzas in town. Their white pizzas are definitely worth a try, my favourite is with venison carpaccio and pomegranate (not as weird as it sounds!). It’s also a nice space just to have a drink and there is often an art installation of some sort to contemplate while sipping on a glass of wine.