Roasting Coffee in Arctic Norway

I didn’t know about Senja Roasters until about a year ago, in a way. I’ve spotted their products here and there, but never really given it a thought. I’m not a coffee drinker, so to me it was more a cool thing, and the source of a great gift. When I was told, in addition to the roastery, they have a cafe, I was all ears 😀 So this summer I decided to get in the car, and drive those 40 minutes to the tiny community of Stonglandseidet, in Senja, to check it out. And, no doubt, the trip was well worth it. I love it! Could be I’ve been away from urban life for a few months now, had my perspective shift, but the place gave me a feeling of big city life, a vacation vibe, and a non-Norwegian atmosphere. I think I’ve been off the grid for too long 😀 Inside is nice and relaxed. Sober, even though many popped by. You spot the roastery in the back. Not a big place, but assume just the right size for where it is located. Outside seating, made out of pallets, fitting perfectly with the surroundings, and boasting pleasing, costal views. As for food and drinks, I found it agreeable, and I can be picky 😀 Coffee, of course. Tea wise, improvements can be made. Generic tea bags could easily be switched out for infusers and leafs. Saw alcohol on the shelves. Cakes, waffles, soft serve, quiches, croissant sandwiches, and more. I can vouch for the bacon quiche and rich chocolate mousse cake 🙂 According to their website, they serve dinner in the evening as well. I’d like to try that. Stuff to take away: merch, coffee soaps, food like cheeses and dried sausages, assume from other local businesses, and, naturally, coffee bean bags. And if you get hooked on the latter, they have an online store.

For a local, drawback is, it is a 40 minute drive from Silsand and Finnsnes, and not open year round – I reckon it’s not viable. For visitors, an off-the-grid attraction. There’s probably buses that run out this way, but most likely few and far between.

Website: senjaroasters.com