The Best of »Falstaff Barguide Nordics 2026«

BasBas is a true Finnish pioneer in natural wines and biodynamic wines. Guests can expect a beautifully curated wine list that combines easy-drinking favorites with rare gems from the cellar, complemented by a restaurant that serves casual grilled dishes from the open grill. A true Helsinki institution that never disappoints.

The "Leijontornet Bar" embodies the spirit of a hedonistic trattoria with weekly themes that focus on specific winemakers or wine regions. Excellent wines are served by the glass or half glass at prices that require an early arrival to get a seat at the bar. With an impressive selection of 3,000 wines and Stockholm's best selection of spirits, there are endless things to discover. Pair your selection with the reasonably priced wine platter that matches the weekly theme, or explore the adjacent restaurant's extensive menu.

The wine bar in "28+" is one of the most outstanding wine bars in Sweden. In a cozy, elegant atmosphere, guests can enjoy rare wines from the renowned wine cellar, accompanied by delicacies from the kitchen. The competent staff, the refined small dishes and more than 30 years of Michelin stars make this restaurant a true paradise for wine lovers.

Named Newcomer of the Year 2025, Laivakoira impresses with an exceptional selection of wines from producers such as Ganevat, Ramonet and Mark Angeli. The playful menu - with crayfish éclair and crab mac & cheese, for example - makes it both a serious restaurant and a relaxed wine bar.

In the "Bar'Vin", the wine list is an experience in itself. With more than 70 wines by the glass - mainly biodynamic, but also conventional and organic - the friendly team is always on hand to advise on your choice. Seasonal, French, Spanish and Italian-inspired dishes round off the experience of a neighborhood bar that feels casually timeless.

This jewel in Tampere presents its own imported wines, which are only available here - or in its sister restaurant "Kajo". The extensive selection of open wines covers all styles, while the small, constantly changing menu provides variety - ideal for a light snack or a leisurely meal.

Vinbaren is located in the five-star Britannia Hotel in Trondheim and is a sophisticated addition to its prestigious restaurants - including the Michelin-starred Speilsalen - and elegant cocktail bar. It attracts both discerning locals and international guests and offers expert advice on an exceptional wine cellar with more than 10,000 bottles from around the world.

The "Ancestrale" may call itself a restaurant first and foremost and a wine bar second, but locals appreciate it for both. The focus here is on organic wines and small seasonal dishes with fish and vegetables, all under the direction of head sommelier Johann Duedahl Jacobsen and his team. It's a cozy, welcoming place where craftsmanship and conviviality come together in a wonderful way.

At "Folii", the music - always complete albums on vinyl - reflects the bar's philosophy: a place to pause, reflect and enjoy a glass of wine in peace and quiet. Under the direction of Beatrice Becher and Jonas Sandberg, each wine is carefully selected and guests are often introduced to new producers or regions with a focus on contemporary styles. The experience is rounded off with dishes from the neighboring bistro "Voisine".

Opened in 2013 by wine importer Rosforth & Rosforth, Den Vandrette brings natural wines and a touch of Georgian flair to the quieter area of Nyhavn. Guests can discover an extensive selection of open wines and enjoy delicious khachapuri - luscious, cheesy, perfectly paired with the wines and one of the most popular dishes in this cozy, inviting bar.

Located in the same building as the Michelin-recommended restaurant "Saga" (formerly "Spontan"), this bar run by Oskar Sköld is the top address for wine lovers in Trondheim. The extensive and award-winning wine list is identical to that of the restaurant and has been voted Norway's best medium-sized wine list three years in a row. The food on offer ranges from artisanal charcuterie and cheeses to creative small dishes - the chicken liver mousse is an absolute must.

This popular, cozy spot puts an emphasis on the wines of importer Österreich Vin, whose bottles are on the shelves behind the bar. There are no reservations and no printed menu - just let us know your preferences and let the knowledgeable team choose the perfect glass for you. Visit us on Wednesdays for the Onsdagssmagning, the weekly tasting where both guest producers and loyal regulars are welcome.

Babette, which has been around for a decade, is considered one of the pioneers of the Swedish wine bar scene and was one of the first places to capture the spirit of a true French neighborhood bistro. Its menu of small dishes, pizza and natural wines has since become a model for many, but the warmth and informal, convivial atmosphere at "Babette", where every guest feels like a friend, remains inimitable.

In the "Bar Vitrine", chef Dhriti Arora combines his unmistakable interpretation of Indian flavors with Riccardo Marcon's finely curated wine selection - similar to his other popular restaurants "Barabba" and "Propaganda". The restaurant has quickly won the hearts of locals and travelers alike.

Bar La Lune is a cozy, lively oasis in Gothenburg, loved by locals and wine lovers alike. With its focus on natural wines, creative small dishes and a distinctly Parisian atmosphere, it has become a popular destination for relaxed yet sophisticated evenings.

Muru is an icon of the Helsinki wine scene and has one of the most extensive wine cellars in the Nordic countries, including Romanée-Conti, Armand Rousseau and vintages dating back to the 1940s. With around 100 wines by the glass, "Muru" achieves a skillful balance between accessibility and genuine wine quality.

Opened by the duo behind "Kuurna", "Klaava" is a cozy yet stylish place with a focus on characterful wines from small winemakers. The elegant interior, the carefully composed small dishes and the warm, convivial atmosphere make it a place where evenings like to stretch late into the night.

Territoriet is a popular eatery in the lower part of the trendy Grünerløkka district, characterized by its warm and welcoming atmosphere. Since opening in 2014, it has become an institution known for its relaxed vibe and exceptional wine list - reputedly the largest selection of open wines in Oslo. A tempting selection of cold cuts, cheeses and other small snacks completes the experience.

Created by Alexandre Carreira, Cork Vinbar brings a slice of Portugal to the heart of Stockholm. Arrive early to secure a seat at the bar, where Alexandre and his team of sommeliers share their knowledge and enthusiasm - and perhaps prove their bold claim that all 800 wines are served by the glass. Thanks to their own import business, the menu is constantly evolving, putting a new generation of Portuguese winemakers and styles in the spotlight.

WWino captures the casual charm of Kallio and focuses on French natural wines, especially from Burgundy and Jura. The lively atmosphere pairs perfectly with the creative, flavorful dishes - a combination that explains why it remains one of Helsinki's most popular food and wine destinations.