This small restaurant, a member of De Historiske Hotel & Spisesteder, is located within the fortress walls in Halden, and was named best local restaurant in Østfold in both 2006 and 2008. The focus here is on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and the menu changes throughout the year as a result. It’s a good place to try game in season, or sample a traditional julebord (a selection of Christmas dishes). Good wine list and professional service. Main courses around 250kr.

Vertshuset Curtisen, Fredriksten Festning (Halden Fortress), Halden. Tel: 95 99 81 84. Open 12-24 in summer, but  make sure you book ahead if planning to visit at other times.