The Norwegian — Restaurant in Rockford Township

Before you even start about going to Rockford for food, just shut up and listen to me. I am well aware that Rockford is the sweaty armpit of Illinois. No one just goes to Rockford and it's the last place I would've looked for breakfast. With that being said, this is without a doubt, the best omelet, and possibly the best breakfast I've ever had. This place is completely worth the one hour one way drive for me.

I walked in and was told we could seat ourselves. I picked a table next to this empty stage, they have events some nights. We were given waters and menus - both food & drinks. The waitstaff there are extremely hospitable and knowledgeable about their menus.

Right off the bat The Loki caught my eye. Its 4 shots of espresso, caramel, organic milk, heavy whipping cream layered on top with cinnamon and a dash of salt. Listen. I am not an espresso drinker. I ordered this because it sounded interesting. Within the first sip I was trying to figure out how in the hell I could replicate this because it's something I need to drink daily. The cinnamon knocks out any bitterness the espresso may or may not have had. The milk & the cream made the whole drink absolutely delicious. I savored every sip throughout my visit.

I was between the Frikadeller Melt, which is smashed Danish meatball on Great Harvest light rye, topped w/ lingonberry barbecue sauce, caramelized onion aioli, Jarlsberg, & house pickles; served w/ fries, or the Omelet, cage-free eggs & Havarti cheese w/ choice of bacon, caramelized onions, spinach, or mighty-vine tomatoes; served w/ organic greens salad & Dom's Øland wheat toast. I chose the Omelet because I've been looking for something lighter. I also saw the Norwegian sourdough waffle with raspberry sauce, for 5$ you bet I swooped those up.

The Omelet is exactly what I was searching for with my last post. While most of you enjoy the 3lbs of fluffy omelet, it's too much for me. This was simple yet flavorful. I ordered everything on it and was not disappointed. The flavor combination was so freaking good. There wasn't one bite that was different. It was consistently mouthwatering. The salad is a refreshing change from hashbrowns. The dressing they use on it was light but just punched up the flavor of the omelet. I told myself I wasn't going to eat the bread because I'm not a fan of wheat toast. If I could replicate this meal in my kitchen, I will not be eating breakfast out for a lonnnnnnnnnnnnnnnng time.

I tried the sourdough waffles, you know your girl loves herself some sourdough, these were also awesome. Especially with that raspberry sauce... which is only made with 2 ingredients. I was shocked because it tastes like there's more to it than raspberries and sugar to it. Must be the combination of the sourdough waffle with the sauce. I don't care how it works. I loved them and so did Violette! Shoved the whole damn piece in her mouth and would not let her fist leave her mouth. Super baby strength kicked in.

The lemon butter cookie was excellent. They have a little bakery section and it was SO HARD not to do one of everything. It wasn't overly sweet and the lemon was perfection. Even gave some to Violette and if she loved the lemon. Thank god she doesn't have teeth because she would've drawn blood 🤣.

As our time came to an end I asked the waitress if they bottled their salad dressing by chance. She told me they don't but it's really easy to make and in their cookbook. Before she could tell me how much it was I told her I needed it.

Parents:

This is a perfect place for your littles. They have a small play area with some toys. They highchairs have comfort cuts for their thighs. Both bathrooms have changing tables that are low enough for me to comfortably change my babe. I'm 5'2" and sometimes the changing tables are at breast level 🤣. Bathrooms were super clean. Everyone here was friendly and kid friendly, the waitstaff and other visitors.

As much as I love a good greasy spoon, I prefer this type. What's the opposite of a greasy spoon???

6/5 - My first ever 6. Yes,...

Came here with a couple friends for brunch, and all I have to say is wow. The restaurant itself was very cozy and homey. The service was prompt and friendly, and the food was not only unique and different but also amazing. I am a huge fish lover so I ordered the fish board smorgasbord. To a novice, some things may sound off-putting. But let me tell you, I enjoyed every single bite. It was all fish, yes. But none of it was fishy tasting. It came with this hearty dark bread, and it was the perfect vehicle for putting everything on. There was also a spread/sauce that has horseradish in it, which was the perfect compliment to it all as well. I have tried pickled herring before, and didn't like it. So I was apprehensive to even eat it. This was delicate and sweet. Not mushy like the others I've had. Then the gravlax - omg. This is nordic style cured salmon. Sooooo good!! Red potatoes are my favorite, so I had to try their smashed red potatoes. So simple, but so perfect. It's like they are boiled, smashed, then fried, and then salted. The skins are left on, so they have the perfect crispy crust. The best part of it all was I was actually full after eating it all, and in a good way. That's saying a lot because I can eat. Also, the Bloody Mary was delicious too! I ordered the pancake balls for my daughter, and she loved them. I snuck a bite too, and they were delicious. I can't wait to go back. Highly recommend!...

Simply amazing...every time. The drink specials are "invented" by the bar staff, and always pair nicely with the featured desert or meal...just ask which they recommend. I will never order Eggs Benedict anywhere else after trying theirs. And, don't pass up the cappuccino, generous and done to perfection. All of the staff are extremely professional, yet friendly, each and every time I have stopped.

31 March 2022 update: I tried their omelette...even better than it looks. Their homemade raspberry preserves are excellent, and the fresh greens were a welcomed surprise to the perfectly done stuffed omelette. This was augmented by their cappuccino, which is always made to perfection. I highly recommend this place, for the unique creations, atmosphere, and great staff.

And don't forget, great and varied music! Here is some Swingbilly...

09 April Update - Pic added of some of the Norwegian crew at the Bonfire Brunch at Severson Dells. EGGCELLENT EVENT!

Easter Sunday Brunch 2022, the parking lot was full, and the team was on top of everything! I had the Rainbow Fritter Benedict: fried zucchini, basil, red onion and sweet potato fritters topped with Eickman's ham, poached Kinnikinnick Farm hen eggs and hollandaise, and served with an organic green salad. What can you possibly chase that with? A Cherry Almond Hindbaersnitter...