Strøms Kro is a traditional Norwegian kro — roughly equivalent to a pub — in the Strømsø neighbourhood south of the river. It is the kind of place that has been serving working people since before gentrification arrived, and it still functions that way: unpretentious, moderately priced for Norway, and full of regulars who would find the riverside terrace restaurants a bit much. The beer selection is basic but the taps are well-maintained, and the kitchen serves simple food at reasonable prices.
This is where you go to get a sense of what Drammen is actually like beyond the regenerated waterfront. The conversations at the bar tend to be opinionated and entertaining if you can navigate the Norwegian. Cash is still accepted here, which distinguishes it from most establishments in the city.