Hidden away along Akerselva, Bortenfor is poorly signposted but worth the wander. Once inside, the sleek interiors tempt guests inside with good music and great Nordiccocktails. If the weather is good, grab a table on the canal-side terrace and soak up the riverfront scenes.

Nestled in a quiet neighbourhood in Fredensborg/St Hanshaugen, is this fantastic Japanese pub. A taverna serving light dishes with a focus on sake, Isakaya is the sort of place you’ll want to bunker down in for the night. Sake is a must here, but there are shochu, umeshu and a cocktail menu with original Izakaya drinks to master. Sit in the front room or make your way through the hole in the wall and find a seat at one of the long, wooden tables.

With ad-hoc art projects and a jazz night inspired by African and Arabic tunes, Bar Khartoum is like none other in Oslo. Bridging Middle Eastern and African – a crossover reflected in the menu – choose from an extensive list of teas and alcoholic beverages. The wine list focuses on natural wines. Entry is free.

This relatively old and somewhat obscure bar is brashly decorated in maritime fashion, completed by a mezzanine and a bar from the 1880s. Downstairs there is a fireplace and a chess/backgammon table. Punters can enjoy opera nights performed by students from the Norwegian Opera throughout the week. It doesn’t serve food, but you can order takeaway from a neighbouring restaurant or bring your own.