Bergen’s annual Christmas Dinner is a popular tradition. Informal, laid back, focusing on ambiance and holiday spirit, it is appreciated by members.

A slight change in 2015 was the location: Bekkjarvik on the island of Austevoll and Bekkjarvik Gjestgiveri – restaurant and guesthouse – run by Øystein and Asta Johannessen in the ancient Royal guesthouse built by Danish King Christian Quart in the early 17th century.

Their sons help run the business. Arnt, who was ‘Chef of the Year Norway 2015’, manages the guesthouse and Ørjan concentrates on the restaurant. It was to celebrate his Gold Medal in the 2015 Bocuse d´Or Competition in Lyon that brought us to Bekkjarvik. We had to sample his cooking in person!

Arriving early Thursday afternoon after 30 minutes’ drive, a further 30 minutes’ by boat then yet another drive of 20 minutes we were warmly welcomed with a chilled glass of Bekkjarvik´s own imported Prosecco in the bar.

The ‘audience’ was in high anticipation as the menu was a Johannessen brothers’ surprise creation to be served in the elegantly prepared dining room with its long tables decorated with flowers and several glasses!

A simple, elegant amuse bouche, inspired by Ørjan’s Bocuse d´Europe in Stockholm, combined two wonderful scallops with cucumber, avocado, horseradish and “løyrom” cream. Paired with a fresh and crisp 2014 Pfalz Riesling – what a start!

MENU

Crayfish with Jerusalem artichokes and a hollandaise espuma
2013, Cà del Magro – Monte del Frà

Skate wings, with a hint of citrus, sauce verte with fennel and radish julienne
2014 Sancerre Grande Réserve – Henri Bourgeois

Bocuse d´Or winning dish of guinea fowl shaped as a half-sphere
with layers of light and dark meat, crispy skin, guinea fowl reduction
tarragon tapioca, mustard seeds, grilled onion, baked beetroot and puffed pumpkin
Beaune ‘Clos du Dessus des Marconnets’ – Pierre Labet

Cloudberry soufflé with cloudberry egg replica
home-made vanilla ice-cream, almond crumble topping
2013 Sauternes – Mouton Cadet

To summarise: apparent simplicity, to-die-for flavours and balance of dishes, excellent wine matches and impeccable service truly fulfilled our every hope and expectation which was reflected in the very positive food review at the end of the dinner, supported by cheers from the participants.

Ready for Christmas? We were! Bekkjarvik is highly recommended for a visit.

Bjarte Askeland
Bailli