Stockholm for foodies
The Swedish capital has witnessed a gastronomic renaissance, with a dynamic interplay between tradition and contemporary flair. Join us as we embark on a culinary journey through Michelin-starred heavens, exclusive fine dining establishments and hidden gems, unravelling the secrets of Stockholm's thriving food culture.
Nestled along the Baltic Sea, Stockholm, often dubbed the "Venice of the North," not only boasts breathtaking views but also stands as a culinary haven that has recently come alive with a vibrant gastronomic renaissance. At the forefront of this revival is the return of the neo-bistro trend, breathing new life into the city's dining scene. Internationally renowned restaurants are making waves, while a growing number of wine bars are enticing patrons with delectable food pairings. To add to the excitement, the fine dining scene is making a triumphant comeback.
Epicurean Evolution: The New Nordic Movement
For years, Stockholm has been at the forefront of the New Nordic Movement, and the city's culinary journey was officially set in motion with the Nordic Manifesto in 2004. Mathias Dahlgren, the visionary chef and the only Swedish Bocuse d'Or winner, has been a trailblazer in this movement. Currently at the helm of two gastronomic gems in the Grand Hotel, Matsalen and the newly minted Seafood Gastro, Dahlgren embodies the essence of Nordic gastronomy.
Matsalen, a beacon of Nordic excellence since its inception in 2007, continues to showcase high-end local ingredients with a delicious and humble touch. Meanwhile, Seafood Gastro, Dahlgren's latest venture, is an exclusive foray into Nordic exploration, marrying international flavours like finger lime and chistorra with the finest ingredients from the region.
Stars and Stories: The Michelin Constellation
While 2022 witnessed the closure of three Michelin-starred establishments, including Gastrologik, Oaxen Krog, and Agrikultur, Stockholm's fine dining landscape remains vibrant. At the forefront is Restaurant Frantzén, a three-star culinary oasis that has retained its celestial status since 2018. Chef-owner Björn Frantzén, having achieved international acclaim, has expanded his restaurant empire to Singapore and Shanghai.
In Michelin's celestial realm, Stockholm boasts other luminaries like Eksted, a fire-centric gastronomic experience; Nour, a Japanese-inspired fine dining destination; Operakällaren, a historic beauty dating back to 1787; Aloe, with a flair for international flavours; Etoile, flirting with molecular gastronomy; Adam Albin, exuding comforting elegance, and Aira, recently awarded a well-deserved second star.
Bespoke Dining Escapes: Beyond Michelin Stars
Beyond the glittering Michelin stars, Stockholm has hidden gems that cater to the discerning palates. La Tour by Pontus Frithiof, perched on the 23rd floor, offers a French-infused culinary experience with a Rolls-Royce Phantom shuttle service for those who desire a stylish entrance. Other exclusive dining experiences include Petri, Persona, Coco Carmen and the secret haven at the boutique hotel Ett Hem, providing a sophisticated and warm atmosphere reminiscent of a friend's elegant home.
Neo-Bistros and Wine Bars: A Gastronomic Renaissance
Adding a contemporary flair to Stockholm's culinary narrative are neo-bistros and wine bars that have sprouted across the city. Triton and Bord, with their seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and ever-evolving menus, exemplify the relaxed atmosphere and affordability that characterize this new wave. Wine bars like Gemla, Grus Grus, Schmaltz and Nektar complete the experience with carefully curated menus, cosy ambiences, and well-thought-out wine lists.
Swedish Traditions: Beyond the Trend
No visit to Stockholm is complete without indulging in the national dish—meatballs with gravy, potatoes, and lingonberries. Traditional establishments like Pelikan, Tennstopet, and Operabaren serve up these savoury delights, capturing the essence of Swedish comfort food. And, of course, there's the quintessential Swedish tradition of fika —a cherished coffee break accompanied by a small sandwich, a cinnamon bun, or a cookie. Tössebageriet, Vetekatten, and the innovative Socker Sucker, with its acclaimed baker Bedros Kabranian and award-winning pastry chef Frida Bäcke, are must-visit spots for an authentic fika experience.
The Swedish chefs artfully collaborate with nature, crafting a dynamic and thriving food scene. So, whether you're a discerning foodie or a casual diner, Stockholm invites you to embark on a journey that transcends trends and embraces the rich tapestry of Swedish culinary heritage.
More info
Matbaren, mdghs.se/matbaren
Seafood Gastro, mdghs.se/seafood-gastro
Frantzen, restaurantfrantzen.com
Ekstedt, ekstedt.nu
Aira, aira.se
Aloe, aloerestaurant.se
Nour, www.restaurantnour.se
Adam Albin, adamalbin.se
Etoile, restaurantetoile.se
Operakällaren, operakallaren.se
La Tour, latourbypontus.com
Persona, www.personasthlm.com
Coco Carmen, cococarmen.se
Petri, petrirestaurant.com
Ett Hem, etthem.se
Triton, triton.restaurant
Bord, bord.restaurant
Grus Grus, grusgrusvinbaren.se
Schmaltz, schmaltz.se
Nektar, nektarstockholm.com
Pelikan, pelikan.se
Tennstopet, tennstopet.se
Operabaren, operabaren.se
Tössebageriet, tosse.se
Vetekatten, vetekatten.se
Sockersucker, sockersucker.se
