The Ancient Viking kitchen was a central gathering place for the family, where meals were prepared and shared. The design of an Ancient Viking kitchen was practical and functional, with a hearth for cooking and various utensils for food preparation. The kitchen often had a smoke hole in the roof to allow the smoke from the fire to escape. Viking kitchens were known for their use of local ingredients, such as fish, game, and foraged plants. The design was rustic and cozy, reflecting the harsh Nordic environment.