Norse Brewing brings Scandinavia to Wake Forest

Wake Forest's locally owned Norse Brewing Company is a timely stop for World Cup fans, serving Scandinavian-inspired food and beer in its charming, gnome-filled downtown tavern.

Why it matters: Norway and Sweden's knockout matches Tuesday make it an ideal time to sample Scandinavian cuisine without leaving the Triangle.

State of play: To be Norse, I now know, is not necessarily to be Norwegian. Descendants of the Norse are spread across Scandinavia — living in Denmark, Sweden and Iceland in addition to Norway.

"They were all vikings," our server explained.

Zoom in: The restaurant and brewery opened in Wake Forest in 2019. A Zebulon location called Norse Brewing Longhouse was added in 2024.

One of the founders is Danish, and Denmark's flag is painted beside America's inside.

Best bites: The Smørrebrød with fried haddock and shrimp ($18) is a crispy open-faced sandwich on sourdough, best eaten with a fork and knife. Tangy remoulade and arugula prevent the fried seafood from tasting overly rich. Outstanding.

The Viking burger ($21.50) blends bison, elk, boar and beef in the patty. It's got a rich and complex flavor and is topped with caramelized onion, blue cheese and tomato jam.

The beet salad ($6.75) is tangy and sweet, with a standout lingonberry vinaigrette.

Their craft seltzer ($7.50) is refreshing in the heat and flavored with passion fruit, orange and guava.

If you go: Both locations are open daily for lunch and dinner.

203 Brooks St., Wake Forest.

120 N. Arendell Ave., Zebulon.

What's next: Norway plays Ivory Coast at 1pm Tuesday.

Sweden plays France at 5pm.