The Social Bar & Bistro Tromsø — Restaurant in Tromsø

As a group of six friends, clients of the hotel and paying the premium price of 300 USD per night.

When we checked in, we were assured that we could dine at the restaurant without any issues. To be safe, we booked a reservation online, only to receive a cancellation email one minute before our scheduled time. The reason? We were told that as a "big group," we were required to book more than 24 hours in advance—something that was never communicated to us beforehand.

What makes this situation even more baffling is that the restaurant was nearly empty when we arrived, and the menu is small and straightforward. There was no valid reason to refuse our reservation. Instead of offering a solution, your manager, Grete, dismissed our concerns and failed to provide any assistance, forcing us to leave the restaurant entirely.

This level of service is completely unacceptable in a city that prides itself on tourism. At this price point, guests expect professionalism, clear communication, and a willingness to accommodate.

Instead, we were met with poor management, an unwelcoming attitude, and zero effort to resolve...

1 star because it’s not possible to choose less. We are clients of the hotel, when we did the check-in (3 rooms of 2 people) we were told we could come for dinner with no issue and no need for booking. We still booked just in case, indeed last minute as it was 30min before, but it showed as free and the reservation was confirmed by email. We arrived to eat and they told us they had canceled our booking 1min before because « for big groups we have to book in advance ». The restaurant was basically empty and if we would have booked 1 table for 4 and 1 for 3, it basically would have been possible. This is just ridiculous. If you open the reservation for up to 7 guests online, you can’t just tell people afterwards that for more than 4 people you need to book in advance. We will for sure not come back and not recommend to anyone....

The staff here is absolutely phenomenal. From the two hostes/waitors at the restaurant (Andres - who was absolutely wonderful and the kind, generous, and calming energy I needed for my long evening, and Tora - who took the time and energy to check after my allergies, ask questions, and was very understanding. Both of them being very thorough on quality and saftey). The kitchen staff was in addition very accommodating and willing to work with my allergies if we stayed for dinner! (Gluten free options, for those wondering!) Honestly some of the best resteraunt staff I've come across in a long time.

I ended up coming back alone for desert and wine, and it was very nice! I usually don't go to hotel resteraunts, but I can't recommend this one enough! Great vibe, great people, knowledgeable staff, and a...