Celebrated table
The story
Pontus i Sälen offers a distinctly Colorado-inspired cuisine in the heart of Elverum’s mountain district. Chef Pontus Frithiof recently brought this vision to the newly built Ski Star Lodge in Hundfjället. He designed the space around a clear program statement that embraces Western frontier warmth rather than chasing high-altitude prestige. This deliberate shift shapes every service decision at the table.
Visitors step into a room defined by heavy timber walls and supple leather seating. A massive stone wall anchors the center of the dining area, housing gas flames that mimic the warmth of a traditional western hearth. Even the flooring carries a subtle joke, featuring a soft carpet printed with a wooden plank pattern. These material choices create a setting that feels both sturdy and quietly playful.
The White Guide awarded this establishment its Fine level status for consistently delivering a cohesive mountain cuisine. Guests seeking refined Nordic cooking will find the menu structured around seasonal ingredients and straightforward techniques. Every plate reflects the same thoughtful balance found in the architecture. The restaurant maintains a steady pace that lets the food speak without unnecessary theatricality.
Recognition
Details
History
One might call it Colorado inspiration rather than an Aspen complex, but clearly there are several restaurants and hotels in Sälen that gladly look toward the Rocky Mountains. Now that Pontus Frithiof has opened two restaurants at the newly built Ski Star Lodge in Hundfjället, it is therefore completely logical that the concept statement for the restaurant that also bears his name is – Sälen goes Colorado. The interior decor ties into the theme. There is a lot of wood and leather. Centrally placed is a large stone fireplace with its burning gas flames, which is an updated version of the classic open Western hearth. A humorous nod is the soft, wall-to-wall carpet patterned to resemble wooden flooring.
Location
