Stockholm, a city spread across fourteen islands, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and captivating history. But beyond its picturesque façade lies a vibrant culinary scene waiting to be explored.
Swedish cuisine, often associated with minimalist aesthetics, is deeply rooted in its history and natural bounty. The use of fresh, seasonal ingredients, particularly seafood from the surrounding archipelago, is paramount. Traditional preservation techniques, born from long winters, have given rise to unique flavours and textures, while modern interpretations have elevated Swedish gastronomy to new heights. Prepare your taste buds for a delightful journey through the best dishes to try in Stockholm.
Must try dishes in Stockholm: A Delicious Smörgåsbord of Flavours
Swedish cuisine is a delightful fusion of traditional fare and innovative culinary trends. The country’s long coastline and abundant forests provide a rich variety of seafood and game, while its fertile lands yield fresh produce. The result is a cuisine that is both hearty and refined, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. From the delicate flavour of gravlax to the comforting warmth of Swedish meatballs, Stockholm’s culinary scene offers a delicious adventure for every palate.
Toast Skagen
A true icon of Swedish cuisine, Toast Skagen is an open-faced sandwich that embodies simple elegance. This culinary masterpiece features succulent prawns, tossed in a creamy dill mayonnaise, and served on top of crispy toast. Often garnished with a dollop of bright red caviar and a sprig of fresh dill, Toast Skagen is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Where to try it: Sturehof, a beloved Stockholm institution, is renowned for its exceptional seafood and classic Swedish dishes, including a superb Toast Skagen.
Foodie tip: For a true taste of Swedish tradition, pair your Toast Skagen with a chilled glass of aquavit, a caraway-flavoured spirit.
Swedish Meatballs
No culinary exploration of Stockholm would be complete without savouring the quintessential Swedish meatballs. These savoury morsels, typically made with a blend of ground beef and pork, are seasoned with aromatic spices like allspice and nutmeg, and pan-fried to golden perfection. Served with creamy mashed potatoes, rich brown gravy, tangy lingonberry jam, and pickled cucumber, Swedish meatballs offer a symphony of flavours and textures that is both comforting and satisfying.
Where to try it: Meatballs for the People, as the name suggests, is a haven for meatball enthusiasts. This trendy eatery offers a variety of meatballs, including the classic Swedish style, served with creative and delicious accompaniments.
Foodie tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of mustard, a staple condiment in Swedish cuisine, to find your perfect flavour pairing.
Gravadlax
Gravadlax, meaning “buried salmon” in Swedish, is a Nordic delicacy that showcases the art of curing. Thin slices of salmon are cured with salt, sugar, and copious amounts of fresh dill, resulting in a silky texture and a delicate, flavourful finish. Traditionally served with a mustard sauce, gravadlax is a refreshing starter or a light lunch option.
Where to try it: Lisa Elmqvist, located in the heart of Östermalms Saluhall, is a culinary landmark renowned for its exceptional seafood, including its exquisite gravadlax.
Foodie tip: For a true taste of Swedish tradition, enjoy your gravadlax with crispbread, a thin and crunchy rye bread, and a dollop of creamy horseradish sauce.
Crayfish
During the late summer months, Sweden’s love affair with crayfish reaches its peak. These freshwater crustaceans, similar to small lobsters, are traditionally boiled in salted water infused with fresh dill crowns and served chilled. The ritual of peeling and savouring these delicate morsels is a cherished Swedish tradition, often accompanied by lively songs and copious amounts of snaps, a strong, distilled vodka.
Where to try it: While crayfish parties are a common occurrence in private homes during the season, several restaurants in Stockholm offer special crayfish menus. Check out seasonal offerings at restaurants like Tennstopet or Pelikan for a taste of this unique culinary tradition.
Foodie tip: Don’t be shy about using your hands to peel the crayfish – it’s part of the fun! And remember to suck the head for the most flavourful experience.
Kanelbullar
No culinary journey through Stockholm would be complete without indulging in a kanelbulle, the beloved Swedish cinnamon bun. These sweet treats, with their irresistible aroma of cinnamon and cardamom, are an integral part of Swedish fika, the cherished tradition of coffee and pastry breaks. Kanelbullar are best enjoyed warm, with a cup of strong Swedish coffee, for a moment of pure indulgence.
Where to try it: Bageri Petrus, with multiple locations across Stockholm, is a local favourite for its exceptional pastries, including its mouthwatering kanelbullar.
Foodie tip: For an extra touch of indulgence, try your kanelbulle with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla sauce.
Where to eat in Stockholm: Best restaurants in town
Here are a few well-regarded restaurants in Stockholm based on Google reviews:
- Restaurant Frantzén: Experience the epitome of Nordic fine dining at this three-Michelin-starred restaurant. Expect innovative tasting menus that showcase the finest seasonal ingredients.
- Oaxen Krog & Slip: Located on the island of Djurgården, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its focus on Swedish cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.
- Gastrologik: This intimate, Michelin-starred restaurant in the Norrmalm district offers a constantly changing tasting menu that reflects the chefs’ culinary creativity and passion for seasonal produce.
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