The Culinary Experience – Under The Ocean

Melanie Earley

In the deep, dark depths of the southernmost point of the Norwegian coast you will find diverse marine life and wild fauna of the sea – and soon the world’s largest underwater restaurant, a building half-submerged into the waters off the coast of Båly, a town three hours from Kristiansand. Designed by Norwegian architecture firm Snohetta, this building is set to be a once in a lifetime experience for guests. Upon arrival, they enter the wardrobe area and are ushered into the champagne bar before descending into the restaurant. It is here guests will be greeted by a breathtaking panoramic view, looking out into the great unknown.

It’s not all champagne and dining under the ocean, however, as the building doubles as a research centre for marine life, educating diners about the marine biodiversity and the Norwegian coast. Consideration for the geographic context and aquatic life is of such importance that over time Under hopes the sleek surface of the building will invite mussels to cling to it so it can become an artificial mussel reef. This then rinses the sea and will attract more marine life to the purified waters.