Our Story
From a temporary building to Drammen's most beloved café.
Welcome to Spiralen Café
Hjertelig velkommen til Spiralen Café. Nyt livet med god mat eller bare noe godt å drikke på byens tak.
Spiralen Café was built in connection with the opening of the spiral tunnel in 1961, intended as a temporary building to be replaced by a hotel designed by architect Sverre Fehn — a project that was never realised. Today, the building is considered an icon and part of the city's greatest tourist attraction.
Spiralen Café is run and owned by Anka and Marius Tanberg, who have started and operated many well-known restaurants in Drammen, including Café Picasso, Pavarotti, and Teatercaféen.
In the kitchen work Marek Rakowski and their son Lars Tanberg, both with many years of culinary experience. Our chefs take pride in making good food with genuine joy and love.
Our food concept is built on Nordic traditions with as much use of locally sourced ingredients as possible, with touches of inspiration from other culinary traditions.
Our History
The Spiral Opens
The iconic spiral tunnel through Spiraltoppen opens. Spiralen Café is built as a temporary facility to welcome visitors arriving at the hilltop for the first time.
A City Landmark
Though the planned hotel by architect Sverre Fehn was never built, the café became woven into the fabric of Drammen's identity. Generations of locals grew up with Sunday trips to Spiraltoppen.
New Vision
Anka and Marius Tanberg — veterans of Drammen's restaurant scene — take over the café with a vision to elevate it while honouring its heritage.
Nordic Kitchen
The kitchen is reimagined around Nordic traditions and locally sourced ingredients. Chef Marek Rakowski and Lars Tanberg join the team, bringing deep culinary expertise.
Byens Tak
Spiralen Café stands as one of Norway's most unique dining experiences — a historical building with panoramic views of Drammen, serving honest, beautiful Nordic food.