The East Coast of Greenland, a land of breathtaking natural beauty, is a place where immense fjords carve through ancient landscapes, and colossal icebergs dot the seascape. But this remote wilderness is also home to something unexpected – a burger joint that defies the odds.
The Remotest of Communities
Nestled in this icy expanse is Ittoqqortoormiit, a tiny settlement often considered the most remote inhabited community in the Western Hemisphere. Here, amid this stark isolation, you’ll find a burger joint that’s not just good; it’s surprisingly delicious. The restaurant’s name, Orormersiardarpi, meaning ‘the place to get a bite’ in the Eastern Greenlandic dialect, is as unpretentious as its exterior. Despite its humble appearance, this eatery has become a beloved addition to the town, earning five-star ratings across the board on Google, including praise for “the best ice water in the world.”
Gourmet Simplicity
In a community where fast food once meant whatever could be hunted, this burger joint’s menu might seem straightforward, but here, simplicity is a virtue. The patties, served with a smile, are made from meats that burst with flavor. While polar bear burgers aren’t on the menu, dishes like muskox burgers showcase the rich tastes of the Arctic.
A Warm Welcome in the Arctic Cold
Ittoqqortoormiit, with its modest population of around 450 residents, might be small in numbers, but it’s grand in the warmth of its community. Here, in this remote corner of the world, people have formed not just a town but a close-knit family. In Ittoqqortoormiit, the local restaurant, Orormersiardarpi, isn’t just a place to grab a burger; it’s a hub of social interaction. When visitors arrive here, they are immediately enveloped in the warmth of this close-knit society. It’s a place where outsiders are treated not as strangers but as guests in an extended family. The brightly painted houses, traditional in Greenlandic colors of blue, purple, green, and orange, welcome you with their cheerful facades.
A Taste of the Ends of the Earth
Visiting Ittoqqortoormiit might require a journey through the stunning Eastern Greenland fjords aboard a Hurtigruten cruise. While it’s a cruise that comes with a price tag, savoring a burger at the edge of the Earth is an experience worth the adventure. So, set sail, explore the remote beauty, and indulge in a surprisingly tasty burger that defies the expectations of this far-flung corner of the world.