If you would have asked me 11 years ago, where in Stockholm do I get a good meal? I probably would have responded; my grandmother’s house.
Looking back at it now, I am almost ashamed over the eateries I used to ooh and aah for (mall food-esque). All countries adjust their ethnic foods to a certain level to please their locals, but after 10 years of living abroad, I realize that the level in Stockholm was on a whole other planet.
A lot has changed in the last couple of years though. Authenticity and the courage to be outside the box has finally found its way into the food scene in my Scandic hometown.
So, if you are traveling to Stockholm any time soon, and looking for good spots to eat at, check out the following places:
1. Knut $$
A little piece of the north in the east. This is a must if you are looking to try Swedish food. Knut serves authentic and rustic northern Swedish food with a modern twist. Their menu changes, but items you will generally find here are gamy meats such as deer and moose, as well as seafood, Swedish cheese and preserves. If you like beer, be sure to ask for a northern beer; they have excellent choices and let you sample them too. There are two locations; Knut Restaurang, and the more casual bar-y location Knut Bar.
If you are pondering over what to order for dessert I would say get something that has Cloudberry. It is such a delicious berry and a specialty of Sweden.
2. Älskade Traditioner $
The name means Beloved Traditions. That is just what this is place is, but with a touch of American 50s style diner. Here in the heart of SoFo (South of Folkungagatan) you will find a wide selection of sweet and savory Swedish waffles, but also mouthwatering shakes and “fika” (home-baked goods with coffee and tea).
Skagen aka Skagen Röra is a Swedish seafood salad made of hand peeled shrimp, mayo, lemon and dill. I never imagined a waffle and skagen could go together, but now that I have tried it I can’t wait to go back for more!
A traditional Swedish waffle. Served with whipped cream and raspberry jam. Sprinkled with powdered sugar. This is what Swedish childhood tastes like.
Swedish waffles are different from American or Belgian waffles. They have finer square patterns (squares are lower and smaller), and the waffles are generally crispier and, in my opinion, more flavorful.
3. Hermans $$
This has actually been a favorite of mine for many years; an all you can eat plant based vegetarian/vegan buffet. A perfect combination of delicious and healthy food with a stunning view in one of the best parts of the city.
and bread fresh from the oven.
The food is so good, that even if you are a carnivore you will love this place. Enjoy a variety of stews, casseroles, salads and spreads, and their warm home baked breads. During summer time Hermans fires up the grill on the outside patio so be sure to pick up some BBQ as well. Don’t forget to get your complimentary refillable cup of coffee or tea after lunch/dinner. They also sell vegan and raw desserts by the counter.
Expect long lines as this is a popular place, but they move quickly and trust me, it will be worth the wait.
Hermans is located walking distance to the famous Fotografiska, so head down there after your lunch to walk off some calories while you enjoy an excellent photo exhibition.
4. Sthlm Brunch Club $$
It may be located in Sthlm but menu is full on SoCal. Health bowls, avocado toasts, bagels, thick American style pancakes and waffles are some of the items you will find at Sthlm Brunch Club. Overall good food, good location (somewhat central but away from the tourist traps) and if this is a bonus to you, VERY Instagram friendly. My favorite thing on the menu? Their freakshakes. I would come back for these any day, and yes they are as freakishly good as they look.
5. Falafelbaren $
Middle eastern food is definitely popular with the locals in Stockholm. At Falafelbaren you will find hot, crispy, organic fried falafels and fresh sourdough pita’s baked in stone ovens, everything made in-house on a daily basis. Falafelbaren is a great option for healthy fast food.
The list of eateries were long, so I will be posting a part 2 (maybe part 3?) in the future!
On that note, I want to leave you with one final thing…. Well actually three things to keep in mind when eating out in Sweden (ESPECIALLY if you are traveling from the U.S.): DON’T expect great (if any) service, DON’T get offended by this, and DON’T base your entire restaurant experience on this shortage; it is just a cultural thing and part of the Swedish experience. On the bright side tipping is not mandatory!
I am still new to this blogging thing so please drop a comment of what you thought of this post, and if you end up going to one of the eateries mentioned above write me and let me know what you think!
Until next time, bon appétit !