Longyearbyen might look like a rough former mining town on Spitsbergen Island,in Norway’s Svalbard archipelago,but that doesn’t mean you can’t opt for fine dining (though the dress code remains relaxed). Funktion Aermessen offers views over town and the fjords as you try a five-course tasting menu heavy on local produce,like Svalbard reindeer and king crab. Have a drink afterwards at Svalbard’s only cocktail bar by the fireplace (there are 70 different champagnes). See Funktion Aermessen
The brewery
Sample treats at the world’s northernmost brewery,which uses water from a 2000-year-old Bogerbreen glacier. The brewery was started by a determined former mine worker who took six years to change laws prohibiting the production of alcohol in Svalbard. But be warned – it’s only open on Fridays. Book a 90-minute tour and you’ll get five beers thrown in (you must try the IPA and stout). See svalbardbryggeri.com