The location is very good, between the charming harbor area and the main street of Våge. Easy access, and parking possibilities close by.
Owners have obviously invested in the place, with a new dining room, new toilets and an out-door "fly bridge"-bar. Open and attractive...rooms, but main dining room could benefit from dividers of some kind (green plants?) - it's a bit too open, giving a company canteen feeling.
A fine menu, mainly based on local food. We tried the elk burger and the spare ribs, very tasty, well made and good portions.
So what's the main challenge here, and "margin for improvement? In two words: The staff and its service professionality. It's a young and clearly inexperienced staff, very friendly and positive, but (still) lacking in skill. It took too long to order, wine and beer were forgotten, had to ask for salt, nobody approached our table to make sure we were satisfied...Conclusion: The Mandelhuset needs better trained staff, OR an operational manager "on the floor" (a maitre d') to keep well-meaning but somewhat unskilled waiters on their toes.
But by all means, we left the restaurant in a satisfied mood, very content with the good food, the location and the place itself. With a bit of patience and tolerance, it comes recommended!More