Iris Restaurtant
AN EXCLUSIVE DINING EXPEDITION IN NORWAY’S HARDANGER FIORD
A story about challenges, flavors, and possibilities
Opening its doors on June 21, 2023, Restaurant Iris, led by Danish chef Anika Madsen, is poised to redefine the culinary landscape with an unparalleled dining experience. Nestled within the breathtaking floating orb known as Salmon Eye, located in the scenic Hardanger fiord, Iris promises an expedition in dining that is both unique and unrepeatable.
A Vision of Sustainable Marine Life
The concept of Iris takes root within the heart of the Salmon Eye experience center, a tribute to sustainable marine life inaugurated in 2022. The structure's captivating double-curved ellipsoid design draws inspiration from a fisheye, creating the illusion of a silvery orb suspended in the rugged beauty of Norway's Hardanger fiord, amidst fjords, mountains, and glaciers.
A Culinary Trailblazer
Anika Madsen, renowned for her passion for ocean-sourced ingredients and dedication to sustainability, stands at the helm of Iris. With previous accolades as Head Chef at Copenhagen's esteemed Fasangården restaurant, she is celebrated for elevating lesser-known ingredients while pushing the boundaries of culinary innovation.
"Iris" tells a story through its menu—a narrative that not only explores the challenges facing our global food system but also offers innovative solutions that can lead us towards a greener future.
A Bounty of Seafood and Local Ingredients
Moving from Copenhagen to the picturesque island of Sniltsveitøy, Anika Madsen embraces an opportunity to immerse herself in the abundant offerings of the sea. The Norwegian coast, she believes, offers some of the world's cleanest and most exciting seafood produce. Her culinary vision includes ingredients like the invasive red sea urchin and various local seaweeds, woven seamlessly into a fine dining experience. The menu also features regional delights such as game meat, sheep's milk, and ciders, celebrating the diversity of local produce.
A True Expedition in Dining
Iris is nestled inside the stunning Salmon Eye structure, accessible only by boat. An evening at Iris is an expedition in every sense of the word, with 24 guests embarking on an unforgettable journey. This includes an exploration of the fiord by electric boats, followed by an 18-course dinner in a dining room offering panoramic views of the fiord, glaciers, and mountains. The experience seamlessly blends gastronomy with activism, showcasing the most local ingredients possible and honoring the farmers, fishermen, and producers behind each dish.
Assisting Head Chef Anika Madsen is restaurant manager Nico Danielsen, bringing a wealth of experience from Copenhagen's finest establishments to ensure that every aspect of your dining expedition is meticulously executed.
Iris is set to be a culinary destination like no other, where sustainability, innovation, and the splendors of nature converge to create an extraordinary dining experience. It's a journey that promises to tantalize the taste buds and ignite conversations about the future of our global food system.
Salmon Eye: A Vision of Sustainability
Salmon Eye, initiated and owned by Eide Fjordbruk, is the world's first and only CarbonNeutral® certified salmon producer. Their mission extends beyond responsible food production to inspire people to explore the possibilities hidden beneath the ocean's surface.
"Iris" aligns perfectly with Salmon Eye's vision of "setting the standard for the future of aquaculture." This endeavor requires the best talent in the field, both in the kitchen and on the farms.
A Symbolic Name for an Exceptional Experience
The name "Iris" not only symbolizes the restaurant's central location within the "fisheye" structure but also carries the weight of the Greek goddess Iris, a messenger transcending the realms of the seas and the heavens.
