The world's most isolated restaurant has closed! This place, called 'Iris', was also the largest floating art installation in the world. It had been a must-visit destination on countless people's bucket lists. Now, only a stunning shell remains.
It floats all alone in the middle of Norway's Hardangerfjord, and getting to see it is really quite difficult. First, you have to fly to Norway, then transfer by car and boat for more than two hours, and finally take the restaurant's own small skiff to reach it.
Even though it hosted only 24 guests each day, most people felt it was well worth it because it was just so unique! It's a massive, 25-meter-diameter elliptical sphere, weighing over 1,200 tons and clad in 9,250 stainless steel 'scales' that shimmer like flowing starlight on the Arctic sun-dappled water.
The exterior was designed by Kvorning Design Studio, while the interior was created by Danish firm Norm Architects.
Iris's design was inspired by the salmon. In Greek mythology, Iris is also the goddess of the rainbow, a bridge connecting sea and sky. The design team wanted every guest who came here to feel Norway's rich cultural heritage and reverence for nature.
From above, it truly looks like the silent eye of a giant salmon, which earned it its even more popular nickname: 'The Eye of the Salmon.' The outside is cold and metallic, radiating a futuristic vibe; walking inside, the contrast is striking.
Inside, everything is warm walnut wood, soft carpets, and furniture with no sharp edges. The restaurant had a total of four floors, including one situated 3 meters below the surface of the water.
Through the giant panoramic window right at sea level, you can take in the scenery of distant glaciers and mountains, forested wilderness, and stunning vistas of the entire fjord.
Unfortunately, in early 2026, just over a year after earning its Michelin star, Iris restaurant announced a temporary closure and dissolution of its team. The team said they are preparing a 'brand new concept.'