Bar Boca – 50s Retro Bar with History

Bar Boca – 50s Retro Bar with History

Also located in Grünerløkka and a few doors up to Aku Aku is Bar Boca. The bartender of the No. 19 told me that this bar is the cradle of Oslos bar scene. It opened its doors at 1996 and the most bartenders worked at this place before they started their own business. This bar is a must for every bar enthusiast. 

As we entered the bar, we found ourselves back in the 50s. It is decorated in a 50s retrostyle, a bit run down but charming. Unfortunately the bar staff wasn’t charming at all, their attitude was more reserved. The bar counter is a nice 50s masterpiece with according bar stools but we decided to sit at a table.

The menu is simple and lists many drinks. I also heard that they published their own cocktail book with all the recipies. The house cocktails looked interesting, solid with nice names and descriptions. We ordered the New Amsterdam, The Color of Olives and a Salmakern aka The Saddlemaker. The bar maid took our order without any emotions, but suddenly she gave Thanos a tiny smile. The atmosphere was relaxed. There were some guests sitting outside and a handful inside. All drinks came in coupettes.

It wasn’t a big wow effect but the drinks are rock-solid.

My New Amsterdam was nicely balanced. The Color of Olives was surprising with the olive oil on top and the decent taste of basil. This place needs a bit of maintenance and love. But perhaps they love it exactly like it is. It is in the end a legendary bar.