Tell us about some places that only the locals go to?

Mathallen on Grunerløkka is a well-hidden spot filled with a
selection of delicious cuisines.

Where should we stay while in Oslo?

The Thief is in the most amazing location and
has a beautiful sea view.

In

In
this percolating creative mecca, the fashion industry has
forged a new breed of young
designers. Creative director Maria Skappel Holzweiler, of
Holzweiler, is one such sartorialist.

The Norwegian brand known for its cosy checked scarves spun from
cashmere, wool and mohair expanded into playful basics in 2014 and
has since be spotted on the likes of Camille Charrière and Annabel
Rosendahl. Identified by a hanger logo, Holzweiler was the only
Scandinavian brand to take part in #coletteforever – the Parisian
store’s last ever line of collaborations before it closed its doors
in December – creating a version of the brand’s popular Hangon
hoodie in Colette’s signature shade of blue.

From the bohemian ambience of Grunerløkka with its offbeat cafés
and restaurants, to the designers she can’t be without, here are
Maria’s handpicked selections of where to eat, shop and kick back
in Olso.

How do you define Oslo style?

It’s becoming increasingly individual, but in general it’s very
sporty, practical and comfortable.

Some of your favourite shops in the city…

Our own shop; Holzweiler multi-store, of course! We stock
Holzweiler alongside brands such as Helmet Lang, Marni, Isabel
Marant and Acne. I also like Yme, Svean, Høyer at Eger, Vincci,
Luck, as well as some of the smaller stores in Grunerløkka.

The best brunch spot is…

Skur 33 or Delicatessen Grünerløkka.

For a family dinner?

The Night Hawk diner is really popular with my children – they
serve the best American pancakes and milkshakes.

For a meal with friends?

Vippa – there are new restaurants and menus there all the time.
It’s really nice to sit outside when it is good weather.

For great drinks head to…

Tim Wendelboe in Grunerløkka has the best coffee, and if you’re
in a party mood, Bettola is a cocktail bar with killer drinks.

For a night of dancing?

Øya music festival will make you want to dance the night
away.

What’s one thing everyone from Oslo will tell you about their
city?

It’s quite expensive, and damn cold sometimes.

When it’s cold out, where should we visit?

If it’s snowing, take the metro to Frognerseteren, eat some
kjøttboller i brun saus (meatballs) and drink the most delicious
hot chocolate with cream. Then rent a sledge and slide all the way
down Korketrekkeren (the longest bobsleigh track in Oslo).

And on a sunny day…

Take the ferry from Akershus Brygge and spend a sunny day with a
picnic on one of the islands in the Oslo fjord – make sure to bring
a blanket (or a Holzweiler scarf).

Oslo’s best exports are…

Norwegian salmon. It’s the best there is.

Up and coming area/s to note now

The lower part of Grunerløkka, toward Gamle Byen. They have said
it’s up and coming for years, but now it’s really something
happening there! The old fish harbour; Vippetangen is also becoming
very interesting with the food market, exhibitions, pop up cafés
and bars.

What food will we become addicted to on our visit?

Norwegian strawberries! Put them on straw and they will taste
even better.

Where’s good for a laptop and coffee setup?

We really need more places like this, but coffee shops like
“åpent bakeri” and “kaffebrenneriet” always work.

For a trip beyond the city head to…

The Lofoten Islands in the north; the silence and light there is
magical.

And finally, what’s in our SUITCASE for a weekend in Oslo?

You’ll need everything from a bikini and sandals to a wool
sweater, scarf, sturdy shoes and sportswear. We can experience all
four seasons in one week.