From 1641 to 1733, the city authorities of Oslo met in the Old Town Hall building, constructed in the XVII century. Balls and ceremonial receptions were also held there, because for some time the main hall of the town hall was the capital's only large public venue.
Over time, there was not enough space in the offices to accommodate all the services and offices. In the first half of the XIX century, the city authorities moved to more spacious premises, and the Supreme Court moved into the Old Town Hall building.
The Old Town Hall was built in the classical style of red brick and, although it has survived fires, wars, and several reconstructions, it looks very charming and cozy, without excessive pomp or pretentiousness.
In 1850, a large side wing was added to the Old Town Hall, housing a restaurant, one of the oldest in Oslo. In 1926, when all official services and departments moved out of the Old Town Hall into new premises, the restaurant moved to the ground floor of the main building.
Gamle Raadhus Restaurant opened in 1856 and is still operating today, offering visitors a magnificent selection of traditional Norwegian dishes. Only carefully selected, environmentally friendly Norwegian vegetables, the freshest fish, and seafood are used in preparing its culinary masterpieces.
The Gamle Raadhus restaurant has its own wine cellar, offering gourmets an extensive wine list and an excellent selection of beer. From May to September, the summer restaurant terrace is open, offering a romantic view of the historic Christiania Torv square and the legendary Glove Fountain.
