Litteraturhuset is one of the state-run organisations dedicated to the arts and here it is all about the promotion of literature, with frequent workshops, talks and debates, not all of them in Norwegian. It's also a lovely place to come and rest weary feet, with a cafe and bar serving a menu of Norwegian soul food tasty enough to attract the odd princess from the neighbouring Royal Palace.
At lunch the salads, patties and Oslo pots – a daily student-friendly casserole, with as much bread you can eat – are good value. There's also a well-stocked bookshop and frequent screenings of art-house films.