Where to eat Scandinavian food in London

Ekte Nordic Kitchen has a name that means real or genuine in Norwegian. As the name suggests, this modern restaurant gives diners an authentic taste of Scandinavian food. The varied menu is seasonal, with choices like Danish open sandwiches and meatballs with mashed potato and lingonberries. You can also try aquavit and schnapps.

Acclaimed Swedish chef Björn Frantzén expands his trademark Scandinavia-meets-Asia cuisine that has landed his three Michelin-starred Stockholm flagship on the World's 50 Best Restaurants list to London. His restaurant at the famed department store is located in a custom-built space that includes Harrods' first rooftop terrace. The menu includes his signature dishes as well as twists on British classics, such as sticky toffee pudding with miso caramel, bourbon, sesame ice cream and candied pecans.

Ekstedt at The Yard is the first restaurant outside of Sweden from top chef Niklas Ekstedt. It's a smart venue that specialises in smoking and cooking over open flames. In the earthy interior, try the seasonal set menu or a nine-course tasting menu with dishes like smoked Orkney scallop and hay-smoked custard.

KöD, a Danish steakhouse export, brings the renowned Scandi minimalism to the world of juicy, cooked-to-order steaks in an intimate and elegant setting. The menu offers a variety of steak options, such as Uruguayan chateaubriand, American ribeye, and the finest wagyu, along with sharing selections and Sunday roasts. Complement your steak with a range of sauces and sides, as well as a selection of fine wines.

Try Northern European recipes in North London at Skål. The interior is comfortable, with white-washed walls and piles of logs. It's a minimalist space for exploring seasonal food with a modern twist. Sample gravlax or kroppkakor dumplings, followed by venison meatballs or fish dishes. There are cocktails with a Nordic twist too.

Ole & Steen has numerous London locations, specialising in classic Scandinavian recipes. Try an open sandwich, typical Danish breads, croissants, pastries, or one of the various flavoured buns here. Breakfast is available too, including lighter options. Enjoy a Danish snack in the contemporary bakery or get something to take away.

Established in Stockholm, Arket is a modern lifestyle market for Nordic design that's stylish and functional. As well as being a place to shop, each store has a vegetarian café focusing on the New Nordic food movement. Expect warming coffee and sandwiches and salads made from ethically-produced, sustainable, and seasonal ingredients.

Discover Scandinavian food and living at Blåbär, which means blueberry in Swedish. This is a Nordic design showroom run by an Anglo-Swedish couple. It also houses a café and a private hire space. Try Swedish tarts and cinnamon buns or savoury options like open sandwiches, fresh soup, and toasties.

Beginning in Edinburgh, Söderberg is a group of Swedish cafés that has expanded to London. During the day they provide a modern space where you can try authentic food made to classic recipes like open sandwiches and cardamom buns. In the evening, sample a Swedish twist on a cocktail like the Fika Martini.

For a fresh take on a lunchtime staple, try out an open sandwich at Scandinavian Kitchen near Oxford Circus. This is a modern Nordic eatery that’s open for breakfast and lunch, offering sandwiches, salads, and some hot dishes. You can also pop into the Scandinavian grocery store on-site for a taste of home.

Swedish eatery Curious Yellow Kafé gives the game away immediately with its colourful blue and yellow exterior. This quirky spot has a mouthwatering menu of comforting soups, sandwiches, and meatballs. You can also enjoy coffee, beer, cake, and sweet treats. This place has indoor seating and an outdoor terrace.

Hjem in Kensington is a Danish coffee shop where you can enjoy artisan and organic products in a relaxed space. The interior is a celebration of Scandinavian design. It's a comfortable space for enjoying coffee and an all-day food menu. Go for a traditional rye bread sandwich or a fresh pastry.

A favourite bakery all the way from Stockholm, Fabrique now has five locations in London, all with their distinctive industrial-chic decor. Using all-natural ingredients and traditional processes, this place rustles up artisan bread and pastries in a stone oven. If you’re after a classic cinnamon bun in London, the ones baked here are definitely worth a taste.

Head to Dauns to visit the only vegan Scandinavian restaurant in London. Opened by an ex-pat from Sweden, it’s a colourful and contemporary spot with menus that change regularly. Try plant-based Scandinavian favourites like cinnamon rolls and open sandwiches, or a toastie made with local ingredients. Coffee and alcoholic drinks are available.

For fresh and authentic Swedish baked goods, visit Bageriet. This bakery and café is modern and rustic, with fresh bread available every day, as well as traditional tarts and pastries. For special occasions, choose a celebration cake like the Prinsesstårta or the savoury smörgåstårta sandwich cake. Enjoy a snack here or take products home.

There are multiple branches of Hagen in London, bringing modern Danish coffee culture to the city. These espresso bars are welcoming and comfortable places that encourage social interaction. Drink your coffee standing, sit at the communal table, or samtalekøkken, or get a takeaway. Simple open sandwiches and sweet bakes are served too.

Originating from Sweden, Hej Coffee has a roastery and coffee house in Elephant and Castle. This is an inclusive space with a laid-back feel. Get a freshly-roasted coffee and treat yourself to a dessert like traditional apple cake or a cinnamon bun, or a savoury sandwich.

Scandi-themed Nordic Bar is a top destination for sport, cocktails, and a Nordic party. Beers and vodkas from Scandinavia are available here, plus accessible pub food. The menu also includes Swedish meatballs and pytt i panna meat and potato hash. Play beer pong and arcade games, watch live sport, and enjoy special offers throughout the week.

Kosmopol does cocktails with a Swedish touch. This award-winning cocktail bar opened in 2002 and has an airy Scandinavian design. This smart space is Swedish-owned, with a laid-back bar area and buzzy downstairs club. Try the varied list of classic cocktails and enjoy a hot dog or toastie if you're peckish.