A cultural lesson on proper “utepils” behaviour ;-)



(Kafe Celsius, Oslosurf.no; 2010)



I know we are going overboard with all this spring and sunshine and happy times talk, but you might as well get used to it: We are coming out of hibernation and it feels so good we can’t stop sharing it!

One of my favourite tips on how to enjoy this season like a Norwegian is to join in on the tradition of “utepils” - pronounced ooteh-pills. Utepils means outdoors beer, and is the concept of getting some friends together, finding a spot in the sun whether in a restaurant terrace or in a more rural setting, and enjoy your beer or other beverage together with the fresh flow of vitamin D.

Utepils can take place after work or around lunchtime if you have the rest of the day off. It is often intended to be just one beer, but tends to drag out making additional beverages and even food necessary. It’s therefore best not to have too much on your schedule for the rest of the day, and to drink slowly.

The social convention during utepils is to lean back in a slightly slouched position, angle your face to the sun and keep your eyes closed the majority of the time. Let conversation flow naturally, keep to light and humoristic topics and leave all else alone. Bringing up serious topics in this setting is a social faux pas; so just kick back and enjoy!

Recommended places for utepils depending on your location:

Arbinsgate 3 / Vika: Aker Brygge area (Map) 

Ullevålsveien 1 / St. Hanshaugen: Waldemars café (Map)

Skovveien 8 / Frogner: Forest&Brown (Map)