The city of Stockholm, Sweden is known as much for its stunning archipelago and historical sites as for its food scene. Stockholm is a gastronomic delight that combines tradition with innovation in an extraordinary manner. This city, resting peacefully amidst an enchanting cluster of islands, is the epicenter of Scandinavian cuisine, where centuries-old culinary traditions meet world-class innovation to offer an unforgettable dining experience. Here are the top 10 best restaurants you should go to in Stockholm, Sweden:
1. Frantzén
Frantzén emerges as not only one of Stockholm’s finest dining places but also a leading light in Scandinavian culinary innovation. This three-Michelin-starred restaurant features a typical dining experience: it’s a multi-sensory journey encompassing roughly 10 courses, served to a select group of diners during each session. Guided by its ethos of ‘casual elegance’, Frantzén masterfully mixes Nordic and Japanese flavors with an emphasis on locally sourced, seasonal produce. Star dishes include the langoustine paired with crunchy rice and ginger, as well as the strawberries and cream dessert, garnished with salt and pepper meringue, along with a selection of exotic wines.
2. Ekstedt
Boasting a Michelin star, Ekstedt stands out as one of Stockholm’s most visited restaurants that operate without conventional ovens or gas stoves. Many consider this restaurant the pioneer of the open-fire cooking trend that has surged across Europe in recent years. Niklas Ekstedt and his team focus on fusing familiar Swedish tastes and ingredients with traditional and contemporary European cooking methods. Through their relentless efforts, they have succeeded in curating one of the city’s most innovative menus. Some of their star dishes include hay-flamed mushrooms with sweetbread, birch-fired wild duck, and Jerusalem artichoke.
3. Mathias Dahlgren – Matsalen
Mathias Dahlgren Matbaren, a beloved gastropub in Stockholm featuring the design work of Ilse Crawford, is famous for its exquisitely prepared small dishes, complemented by exotic wines. Some of their must-try dishes that might be served in the restaurant are the creamy pumpkin and broccoli dish, seasoned with truffle and garnished with watercress and almonds; the “steamed beef bun” with grilled beef brisket and chipotle mayonnaise encased in a fluffy bun, served with tangy pickled peppers; and a unique Scandinavian interpretation of the traditional Japanese sashimi, crafted with the freshest slices of salmon and reindeer, and flavored with soy and horseradish.
4. Operakällaren
As one of Stockholm’s oldest and most iconic restaurants, Operakällaren embodies Swedish elegance and tradition. Located within the Royal Swedish Opera building, the restaurant’s grandeur is complemented by Chef Stefano Catenacci’s carefully curated menu that beautifully combines Swedish classics with modern techniques. Diners are treated to both visual and culinary masterpieces in this extravagant setting. The menu features an expertly chosen range of classic French dishes, reimagined with a modern flair, which patrons can order à la carte or enjoy as part of a tasting menu. The wine experience is noteworthy on its own, as Operakällaren’s wine cellar, housing around 2,100 different selections, ranks among the most extensive in Sweden.
5. Café Nizza
Café Nizza is one of the best eateries nestled in the district of Södermalm. The restaurant radiates a relaxed and inviting ambiance, and the semi-open kitchen’s offerings stand out for their expert preparation and seasoning. The menu showcases a variety of dishes inspired by both French and Italian gastronomy, including a mouth-watering cacio e pepe, a vegetarian twist on the classic pasta carbonara. Alongside its primary dining space, Café Nizza also features an outdoor seating area, ideal for enjoying a meal during the balmy seasons. Given its casual vibe, exquisite cuisine, and affordable pricing, Café Nizza is undoubtedly a restaurant worth visiting in Stockholm.
6. Meatballs For The People
If you’re a food enthusiast visiting Stockholm, trying Swedish meatballs — served with creamy mashed potatoes, tangy lingonberry jam, and a rich beef broth sauce — is an absolute must. Skip the crowded spots in the Old Town and instead head to Meatballs for the People, situated in the trendy Södermalm district. Established in 2013, this restaurant focuses on the classic dish but also offers many other unique dishes, including vegetarian alternatives. The restaurant also includes a small deli selling take-home meatballs.
7. Restaurang Hantverket
Chef Stefan Ekengren of Restaurang Hantverket is deeply devoted to Swedish culinary traditions. One of the esteemed classics on the restaurant’s menu is his rendition of the renowned Hasselback potato, reflecting the chef’s profound fascination with potatoes. This dish, comprising fried potatoes accompanied by bleak roe and sour cream, is a reimagined version of a cherished childhood staple. Overall, Ekengren’s kitchen excels at reinterpreting familiar dishes, accentuating their finest features, and introducing an exciting twist to elevate them to new, modern delicacy.
8. Brasserie Le Rouge
The culinary experience at Le Rouge is like no other in Stockholm. Dishes such as garlic-baked snails, white asparagus adorned with trout roe and hollandaise, and fried sweetbread paired with comté cheese are all part of the enticing offerings by this restaurant. The ambiance is reminiscent of an upscale dinner club, making a visit to Le Rouge feel akin to attending a dinner party at your most fashionable friend’s home. However, the Le Rouge experience extends beyond mere food. The restaurant frequently hosts DJs and offers entertainment, adding an extra layer of thrill to the dining experience.
9. Rosendals Trädgard
The concept of “locally sourced” takes on a whole new meaning at Rosendals Trädgård, where daily lunch specials are prepared from fresh vegetables, herbs, and flowers harvested directly from its gardens. Hand-baked bread, pies, and pastries emerge from a traditional wood-burning oven situated nearby. Located in the heart of Djurgården island, Rosendal’s estate was once part of the Swedish royal family’s private garden and is now the city’s largest public park. Diners here have the opportunity to enjoy their meals inside the greenhouse or from the spacious outdoor terrace, surrounded by lush trees, vines, and flower beds. The kitchen is presently under the direction of British chef Billy White, who is renowned for his robust, flavor-rich European cuisine. The menu typically features just two main courses in addition to a vegetarian soup. Unfortunately, Rosendal’s cafe does not serve dinner, closing its doors at 5pm.
10. Taverna Brillo
Surrounded by high-end boutiques, exclusive members-only bars, and trendy nightclubs, Taverna Brillo provides a warm, homely alternative, making it an ideal spot for larger gatherings. The main item on their menu are the pizzas, generously topped with fresh, seasonal ingredients, but there are also pasta, meat, and fish dishes. For dessert, there is meringue and panna cotta, along with a diverse assortment of ice creams and sorbets. Additionally, there is a separate gelateria and a bakery-cum-coffee-shop at the entrance, as well as a graffiti-adorned cocktail bar, Växthusen, situated at the back of the venue.
