In the multicultural Grønland neighborhood where Oslo's immigrant communities have established restaurants that actually serve their own populations, Punjab Tandoori delivers straightforward North Indian food without pandering to Norwegian palates. The space is fluorescent-lit and basic, the service is efficient rather than warm, and the food is spicier and more assertive than the adapted Indian restaurants in fancier neighborhoods. It's the real deal if you want actual heat and flavor.
Location
Grünerløkka, Oslo
Insider Intel
The tandoori chicken comes properly charred from the clay oven. Curries have actual depth and heat—specify spice level clearly. Naan is fresh and essential for soaking up sauces. The biryani feeds two and delivers proper layered rice and meat. Lunch buffets offer maximum value if you're hungry. Mango lassi helps when you underestimate the heat.
Lunch buffet from 12-3pm offers unlimited food for around 150 NOK, which is exceptional value. Dinner service is a la carte and slightly pricer. Weekday evenings are quieter. Weekend dinners bring the local South Asian community, which is a good sign. They're open daily.
This is not atmosphere dining—come for the food, not the ambiance. Cash and card both accepted. Prices are very reasonable with curries around 150-180 NOK. The neighborhood is gritty and multicultural, which some tourists find uncomfortable but is actually one of Oslo's most interesting areas. Service can be brusque. If you ask for mild, they'll still make it spicier than most Oslo restaurants' hot.