Torill and Sven Erik Renaa – the couple behind RE-NAA in Stavanger
Meet Torill and Sven Erik Renaa, the visionary couple who transformed Stavanger into an unexpected culinary capital. Since opening their first restaurant in 2009, they've achieved what many thought impossible: bringing three Michelin stars to a city of 150,000 people.
Sven Erik, the youngest head judge in Culinary Olympics history, brings an encyclopedic knowledge of cuisine and a "no fuss" philosophy that celebrates local Norwegian ingredients. As he explains: "Our flavor DNA is rooted in pickling, fermenting, curing, drying–these elements are the backbone of almost every dish we serve."
Torill, an accomplished sommelier and service expert, complements the culinary excellence with her warm, sophisticated approach to hospitality. As maître d' at the European Bocuse d'Or finals and a Food Culture Award winner, she's renowned for crafting unforgettable dining experiences that balance precision with charm.
Together, they've created more than just a restaurant – they've built a temple to Norwegian cuisine where every team member, from the dishwasher to the chef, plays a vital role in delivering excellence.
Photo by Henriette Heimdal