Le Mathis Bistro: a piece of France in the heart of Bergen

In Bergen, a city known for its dramatic landscapes, rain-soaked charm, and rich cultural heritage, Le Mathis Bistro stands out as a warm and elegant slice of continental Europe.

As a UNESCO World Heritage City, European City of Culture, and City of Gastronomy, Bergen hardly needs an introduction. Despite its many rain-soaked days, people from all over flock to see the beautiful sights and bustling cultural life. However, should puddles and downpour ever become too much, find a Mediterranean escape in the city’s Skostredet district, where a French bistro offers a contrast to the city’s rugged coastline and Nordic flavours.

“I lived several years in France, speak French and have always had a lot of love for the French culture, food, and wine. Along with my partner, Odd Einar Tufteland, I opened Le Mathis in May of 2022,” says manager and co-founder Hildegunn Aga Jensen. “We wanted to add something new to Bergen. We wanted to create a genuine French bistro, a place where good food, fine wines, and a relaxed, continental atmosphere take centre stage.”

Step inside the bistro, and you are transported to Paris. The interior boasts authentic French touches: small marble tables, dark wood, mirrors, and details that evoke a Parisian street bistro. And the menu, of course, is a love letter to French cuisine, featuring time-honoured dishes like escargots in garlic butter, tartare, oysters, moules frites, and the signature Le Mathis entrecôte classique with béarnaise sauce and pommes frites.

“With the season, I recommend Asperges Françaises, butter-fried Norwegian asparagus with hollandaise and cured ham. Another classic I’m fond of is Tartare de boeuf, and many of our regular guests return specifically for the escargots in garlic butter and Moules Frites.”

If you are planning an intimate dinner or a larger celebration, Le Mathis also has you covered. The bistro accommodates up to 50 guests, ideal for lively dinners or private events. For smaller groups seeking a more secluded setting, the intimate champagne bar seats eight. And on sunny days, its charming French-style backyard provides a cosy space for up to 24 guests, which is perfect for aperitifs, afterwork, or casual get-togethers.

Head chef Nils Hamre.

Web: www.lemathis.no
Facebook: Le Mathis Bistro | Bergen
Instagram: @lemathisrestaurant