At localsinsider.com, we’ve traveled to Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, to bring you the best seafood restaurants that prioritize sustainability, freshness, and a strong sense of local culture. Like Greenland itself, Nuuk’s culinary scene is rugged, pure, and deeply connected to nature.
The city’s seafood showcases Greenland’s rich marine life—think Arctic char, Greenland halibut, and shrimp—caught fresh from the icy surrounding waters. Seafood is the local staple, while greens and dairy, often imported or grown in South Greenland, can be costly and sometimes unavailable. With a tradition of relying on the hunter’s catch, everything here revolves around seasonality, making freshness almost second nature and something almost taken for granted. The local food options vary from warm, simple cafeterias to somewhat elegant places with great fjord views; these restaurants each offer their take on Greenlandic traditions. Here’s our guide to Nuuk’s top sustainable seafood places!
Best Nuuk Places for Fresh and Sustainable Seafood
Restaurant Sarfalik
- Address: Hotel Hans Egede, Aqqusinersuaq, Nuuk
- Website: hhe.gl
Located in Hotel Hans Egede, Sarfalik is Nuuk’s premier dining restaurant, known for combining Greenlandic ingredients with more global flavors. Sarfalik, from 2007, works closely with local suppliers to source sustainably harvested seafood and regional ingredients.
The tasting menu, featuring delicacies like Greenlandic scallops, smoked char, and halibut ceviche, costs around 595 DKK (approx. €80) and provides a true taste of Greenland’s coastal bounty. The modern decor and views over Nuuk offer an elegant intro to Greenlandic dining.
TripAdvisor reviewers highlight the “innovative dishes” and “incredible seafood,”. This place is a place locals chose for a special night out.
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 18:00 to 22:00
Inuk Hostels Restaurant
- Address: Qeqertat 1, Nuuk
- Website: inukhostels.com
Set within Inuk Hostels, this restaurant offers spectacular views of the Nuuk fjord and serves fresh Greenlandic seafood. Opened in 2012, Inuk specializes in Greenlandic specialties like smoked Arctic char, paired with local herbs and seasonal ingredients.
Menu favorites include Greenland halibut and shrimp with a touch of wild herbs. Dishes range from 120-300 DKK (approx. €16-€40), with an intimate setting that showcases Greenland’s stunning natural backdrop.
Visitors rave about the “incredible views” and “authentic Greenlandic flavors,” making Inuk Hostels Restaurant a must-try for anyone looking to connect with local culture.
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 12:00 to 21:00
Brættet
- Address: Imaneq 29, Nuuk
- Website: braettet.gl
Named after the Greenlandic word for “market,” Brættet specializes in locally sourced seafood, offering an ever-changing menu based on seasonal catches. Opened in 2018, the restaurant supports sustainable fishing practices and serves everything from Arctic char to Greenland shrimp.
Signature dishes include Greenlandic shrimp risotto and grilled cod with wild herbs. Mains are priced between 150-275 DKK (approx. €20-€37), and the warm, modern ambiance makes it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Guests on Google Reviews often mention the “fresh flavors” and “friendly service,” making Brættet a fantastic place for a sustainable and tasty meal.
Hours: Monday-Friday: 11:30 to 20:30; Saturday: 12:00 to 21:00
Café Esmeralda
- Address: Aqqusinersuaq 14, Nuuk
Established in 2004, Café Esmeralda is a popular hangout in the heart of Nuuk, offering a mix of Greenlandic seafood and international dishes. Known for its commitment to fresh, local ingredients, the café serves dishes like Greenlandic cod burgers and smoked salmon wraps.
Mains are priced around 100-200 DKK (approx. €13-€27), making it an affordable and cozy choice. With its casual, inviting atmosphere, Café Esmeralda is perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
Guests praise the “friendly staff” and “fresh seafood,” highlighting Café Esmeralda as a top place for more authentic Greenlandic flavors.
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10:00 to 20:00
Katuaq Café
- Address: Katuaq Cultural Center, Nuuk
- Website: katuaq.gl
Located within Nuuk’s Katuaq Cultural Center, Katuaq Café is a place that celebrates local Greenlandic ingredients. Since 1997, the café has served seasonal seafood like Arctic char and Greenlandic mussels, prepared in various ways.
Menu favorites include Arctic char on flatbread and Greenlandic fish soup. Mains are reasonably priced between 85-150 DKK (approx. €11-€20), making Katuaq Café a budget-friendly option with a creative edge.
Visitors on TripAdvisor highlight the “artsy ambiance” and “locally inspired menu,” describing it as a great place to enjoy Greenlandic foods in a cultural setting.
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 11:00 to 18:00
Imaneq 29
- Address: Imaneq 29, Nuuk
Imaneq 29, opened in 2018, offers fresh, locally sourced seafood in a cozy and welcoming setting. This place is known for its Greenlandic-style fish and chips and grilled Arctic char, with prices for main dishes between 130-250 DKK (approx. €17-€33).
The relaxed, homey atmosphere and friendly service make it a favorite among locals looking for fresh, hearty meals. Guests describe it as a “hidden gem” with “authentic Greenlandic flavors.”
Hours: Monday-Friday: 11:00 to 20:00; Saturday: 12:00 to 18:00
Restaurant Nipisa
- Address: Nuuk, Greenland (seasonal pop-up)
- Website: nipisa.gl
Restaurant Nipisa operates as a seasonal pop-up, bringing Greenlandic ingredients to life with creative dishes prioritizing sustainable sourcing. Known for its ever-changing menu, Nipisa features local seafood like mussels, halibut, and shrimp, often paired with foraged herbs and berries.
With a focus on fine dining, Nipisa’s tasting menus are priced from 500-800 DKK (approx. €67-€107), and the intimate setting adds to the unique experience. Reviews describe it as “innovative” and “one of a kind,” perfect for adventurous diners.
Hours: Seasonal
What Greenlandic Foods to Try?
Mattak (Whale Skin and Blubber) – This one divided the waters and is in the acquired taste category. If you are not discouraged, try Mattak, which is traditionally eaten raw or dried. With a chewy texture and intense flavor, it’s considered a delicacy and valued for its nutrients! I am personally not so sure of the healthy part of it, but in not too distant past, it was very important to get enough energy to get through the cold and tough winters.
Arctic Char – Known for its delicate, slightly sweet flavor, it is often smoked, grilled, or served raw as a Greenlandic sushi-style dish. It’s a must-try for its rich, fresh taste.
Greenland Halibut – This buttery fish is a local favorite, often grilled or pan-seared and paired with simple herbs. Halibut’s tender texture makes it ideal for both casual and fine dining.
Greenlandic Shrimp – Smaller but packed with flavor, Greenlandic shrimp are sweet and tender. They’re enjoyed in salads, soups, or on their own with a touch of lemon.
Mussels – Harvested from Greenland’s cold waters, local mussels are typically steamed and served with a light herb broth. They’re perfect as a starter or a light main course.
Seal Meat – Seal is a traditional food in Greenland, usually served as steaks, in stews, or dried. It has a rich, gamey flavor and is especially popular in coastal areas.
Dried and Fermented Fish (Kalaalimernit) – Greenlanders have perfected the art of preservation with dried or fermented fish. Fermented fish, known for its tangy taste, is an acquired but memorable experience that speaks to Greenland’s cultural heritage.
Disclaimer:
Our listings are based on research, local customer reviews, top travel bloggers, magazine evaluations, and our own preferences. Prices and menus may change, so please check official sites for the latest information.
Sources: VisitGreenland.com, TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, restaurant websites
