Top Restaurants in Stockholm

Stockholm has long been overshadowed by its more continental Nordic sibling, Copenhagen. However, recent years have witnessed a remarkable transformation in Stockholm’s gastronomic scene. With small basement bistros like Prospero and Bambi serving creative dishes in unassuming settings, and star chefs at establishments like Franzén and Aira elevating fine dining, selecting the best restaurants in Stockholm poses a delightful challenge. This guide aims to highlight some of the finest dining experiences you can enjoy when visiting the Swedish capital.

Operakällaren/Bakfickan

Dish to order: Råraka with bleak roe and sour cream

Operakällaren is the grand dame of fine dining in Stockholm, located within the opera house. Renowned for its traditional Swedish cuisine, the restaurant has remained a favorite among locals. Under the leadership of chef Viktor Westerlind, the menu is refreshed several times a year to reflect the changing seasons. During Christmas time, it offers the city’s best “julbord” – a traditional Swedish holiday buffet featuring an array of pickled herring, salmon, and meatballs, which is a must-try for December visitors.

Bakfickan, the restaurant’s intimate bistro, features 28 bar seats that are available on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s an ideal spot for spontaneous meetings at the beautifully tiled bar.

Address: Restaurant Operakällaren, Operahuset, Karl XII:s torg, 103 22 Stockholm

Ambar

Dish to order: Gyozas with Damon’s choice of sherry

Nestled in Vasastan, Ambar is a hidden gem where Stockholm’s chefs frequent on their days off. On Sundays and Mondays, the restaurant buzzes with industry workers enjoying a delightful selection of sherry and natural wines. Although the owners, Sakiko Jin and Damon Young, hesitate to label it strictly as a restaurant, the excellent Japanese street food prepared by Sakiko is well worth a visit in itself.

Address: Ambar, Tomtebogatan 22, 113 38 Stockholm