In 2022, we embarked on our very first cruise adventure — a maiden voyage through the spellbinding Norwegian Fjords. Our journey took us to the charming ports of Stavanger, Olden, Haugesund and the storybook town of Ålesund. Each stop served up its own slice of magic, but nothing quite compared to sailing between those towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. After an excursion to an open-air museum in Ålesund, we wandered the cobbled streets and stumbled upon a little Italian treasure tucked just off the marina — Cinque Minuti. Trust us, you’ll want to scroll down for this one…
Our Review:
“Stepping into Cinque Minuti on a crisp April afternoon felt like a fleeting escape to a rustic Italian hideaway — right in the heart of Ålesund. With wooden chairs, tables, and counters giving off cosy countryside vibes, pops of greenery softening the room, and walls behind the counter painted in thick stripes of crema and chocolate tones, the whole place was a subtle invitation to settle in and unwind.
Though the menu of wood-fired pizzas and Italian favourites like mortadella, pancetta and lasagne tempted us, we kept it light — all thanks to the promise of a shipboard feast later. Instead, we eyed up the patisserie proudly displayed at the counter. One decadent slice of chocolate cake called my name, and it didn’t disappoint. It wasn’t quite on par with the “world’s best chocolate cake” we sampled in Lisbon (more on that soon!), but it held its own. My husband went for a coffee, rich, warming, and just what he needed.
The service? Excellent. Despite it being our first time ordering in Norway and handling the Krone-to-Sterling currency juggle, the staff were approachable, friendly, and helpful. Everything was served simply on white plates, letting the quality of the food speak for itself. Yes, it was a little pricey — but that’s just part and parcel of exploring Norway. We’re already dreaming of our next fjord adventure, and when we return to Ålesund, we’re making a beeline back here… this time for the pizza!
Pros & Cons:
- Warm, inviting atmosphere✅
- Friendly staff✅
- Tempting menu with Italian flair✅
- Price point❌
Gourmet Gauge:
Cinque Minuti delivered a comforting, flavourful experience with charming décor and top-notch service that put us instantly at ease. While the price point reflects typical Norwegian standards, the overall quality, warm welcome, and Italian flair made it worth the krone. Next time, we’re absolutely coming back for that pizza!
Taste: 8/10 🥄
Presentation: 8/10 🍽️
Ambience: 7/10 🕯️
Service: 6/10 🧑🍳
Value for Money: 6/10💰
Total: 35/50 Worth A Visit!
You can find “Cinque Minuti” at the following location:
Cinque Minuti
Kongens Gate 14
6002 Ålesund
Norway
You can find their website and social media at: https://5minuti.no/
🌍 Over to You, Fellow Taste Trekkers!
Have you ever found yourself wandering through Ålesund’s marina with a craving for cake or coffee? Or maybe you’ve stumbled upon a hidden gem during your own travels through Norway? We’d love to hear your foodie adventures and recommendations—drop us a comment below and let’s swap stories!
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Until next time—keep trekking, keep tasting, and always stay curious.
The Taste Trekker 
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