Løkka Deli, located in the bustling street of Markveien, Grunerløkka, offers the best option for a traditional Norwegian “matpakke”. This concept where Norwegians bring a couple of slices with bread and some topping for lunch every day has been challenged over the years as more international cuisines have found their way to Oslo. So, if you’re rather in for a really nice sandwich, either for a sit-down or as a takeaway, Løkka Deli would be my preferred option. Offering a very concentrated menu with only a few but delicious sandwiches, it offers a typical, nice American-Italian flavor with several meat options. I normally go with the Cubano with porchetta or Pastrami Reuben being my top choices.

As a newly established place, just situated at the core of the hipster area of Oslo, it is a perfect stop both for locals and other curious people to check out on the way to other great sights in the area. Be aware that during lunchtime the relatively small place can be quite packed, with queues outside and some waiting time for your order. But it will be worth the wait and definitely more exciting than the traditional “matpakke”.  Though it’s a more expensive lunch, I just cannot resist it as an alternative to my everyday slice of bread. They also have sides and drinks. Closed on Mondays.