
The guide to hidden gems in Stockholm
Updated 30 Jun 2020
The information in this guide may be affected by covid-19.
Stockholm's ever expanding restaurant scene is hotter than ever and the city is full of hidden gems, un-explored nooks and out-of-the-way surprises that should not be missed. Often cubbyhole-sized and off the beaten track, frequented by in-the-know regulars, the offering includes foodie-havens, small homely bistros and speakeasy-style joints. Fuelled by the modern-day desire for exclusivity our guide to hidden gems in Stockholm features some of the best-kept secrets in the city.
Bistrot Paname
Hagagatan 5, VasastanA trip to the city of light
This locals' favourite is a classic French bistro serving frogs' legs, escargot and other genuine dishes, not for the faint of heart. Paname (slang for Paris) is a true hidden gem, but don't let that stop you from partaking in the authentic Tricolour-vibes.
Café Facile
Luntmakargatan 99, VasastanIntimate and affordable
Qualitative food at a facile pricing point - that is this charming French bistro's motto. The intimate atmosphere and relaxed ambiance appeals to a wide audience. The menu's classic French-inspired dishes offers continental gustatory delights.
Styrelsen
Hantverkargatan 31, KungsholmenHead to Kungsholmen
You needn't look further than Kungsholmen to get a dose of continental air. Styrelsen is run by the people behind Pastis and serves rustic Southern European home-style food along with artisanal cocktails in a relaxed bistro setting. Add this to your to-do list if you haven't already.
Styrelsen Bar & Bistro
Babette
Roslagsgatan 6, VasastanThe foodie-hangout of choice
Babette quickly made a name for itself within foodie circles. The French-inspired bistro serves a selective á la Carte menu and is particularly famous for its innovative pizzas made in the open kitchen. The venue is small and fills up quickly, so make sure to get there early - or if you don't mind the wait grab a glass of wine and soak up the ambiance.
Pastis
Baggensgatan 12, Old TownFor the Francophile
Pastis is minute to say the least, yet hidden among Gamla Stans winding alleyways Pastis is a major powerhouse when it comes to authentic French cuisine. No wonder secretive regulars choose to keep this quaint brasserie to themselves. Rustic homemade dishes are served with an elegant twist. Bon appétit!
Brasserie Bobonne
Storgatan 12, ÖstermalmGenuinely French
Can't get enough of classic French cuisine - neither can we. Brasserie Bobonne offers a culinay trip to the continent without having to leave the comfort of Östermalm. The selective chalkboard menu is updated bi-weekly and features rustic, homely dishes such as boeuf bourguignon without any unnecessary frills.
Mamma o. jag Bistro
Tjärhovsgatan 50, SödermalmSödermalm charm
This homely little neighbourhood restaurant is on Tjärhovsgatan in a quiet part of Södermalm. Run by a mother and daughter who used to have a restaurant in the Stockholm archipelago, they serve medium-sized dishes with international influences.
Aubergine
Linnégatan 38, ÖstermalmWell-established gem
Aubergine has been a favourite neighbourhood haunt since the Nineties, but it's easy to miss this intimate restaurant on Linnégatan near Östermalmstorg. Drop by for a classic lunch or dinner made from seasonal ingredients, or just have a drink at the bar.
Restaurant Aubergine
Nybroe Smørrebrød
Nybrogatan 31 (Östermalmshallen), ÖstermalmHistoric premises
Inside Östermalms Saluhall you'll find Nybroe Smørrebrød, which serves authentic Danish open sandwiches. Choose from a wide selection of toppings, such as pickled herring, roast beef, warm-smoked salmon and many more. Sit and eat in the market's newly-renovated historic surroundings.
Makalös
Västra Trädgårdsgatan 11B, Norrmalm/CityProvencal vibes
You'll find this French-inspired brasserie on a tucked-away side street next to Kungsträdgården.Makalös serves classic dishes in Provencal-style surroundings. Round off your meal with a glass of champagne in the elegant bar.
Marco's
Torbjörn Klockares gata 1-3, VasastanA quaint neighbourhood hangout
Marco's pays homage to classic Italian home cooking with ambitious dishes, abundance of wine and relaxed ambiance. The bistro-style decor features impressive arched windows, rustic furniture and whitewashed walls. Perfect for the whole family, Marco's also has a special kiddies menu.
La Vecchia Signora
Åsögatan 163, SödermalmOne of the best Italian restaurants in town?
La Vecchia Signora, which translates to the old lady, exudes authentic charm. Exquisite Italian food influenced by the Piedmont region is served along with complimenting wine. Candlelight enhances the intimate ambiance.
Hommage
Krukmakargatan 22, SödermalmParis just around the corner
This romantic bistro is charmingly located in an old fire station and boasts vaulted ceilings and boho-chic vibes. The interior is characterised by white tablecloths, tiled floors and mismatched chairs. The kitchen serves modern French classics along with a variety of French wines. Be sure to drop by the adjacent Bar Hommage.
Knut
2 addressesOde to the North
Land of perpetual cold and the midnight sun, Norrland is under-represented when it comes to Stockholms restaurant scene. Knut however, makes up for this lapse. The northern influences are apparent in both the interior and menu. Rustic wooden surfaces and furs punctuate the interior and the kitchen serves game and Norrland-style flatbread pizza with emphasis on local produce. Thematic cranberry cocktails complete the vision.
Itamae Izakaya
Odengatan 106, VasastanHole-in-the-wall sushi
Despite its central location, Itamae Izakaya is easily overlooked due to its unassuming size. This sushi joint quite literally personifies the concept of hole-in-the-wall but the sushi conjured out of the kitchen is extraordinary. Apart from classic options, the menu features fish tacos and ceviche as well as artisanal beer.
Alma Trägårdh
Nybrogatan 8, ÖstermalmCocktails and DJs
A secret spot that's part of the cool co-working space Alma on Nybrogatan. This creative bar serves up innovative cocktails and electronic music with DJs such as Axel Boman, Baba Stiltz and Mr. Tophat. Well-known restaurateurs Lill Lindqvist and Andreas Basile are behind the reins.
Bar Nombre
Odengatan 36, VasastanThe perfect end to your day
Although a popular joint, chances are that you have yet to set your foot here - which is why we mention it. The Spanish-Nordic influences are apparent in both the decor and the menu. The venue is relatively small and fills up rather quickly with hungry diners. The cocktail bar is manned by well-reputed bartenders and is many a locals’ destination of choice.
Capitol
Sankt Eriksgatan 82, VasastanMovie buffs
This historic arthouse cinema on Sankt Eriksplan was brought back to life in 2018 and now includes an intimate little bistro in true Art Deco style. If you want to combine a movie with something to eat, you can even take your food or a glass of wine into the elegant cinema auditoria with you.
Bio & Bistro Capitol Stockholm
Pharmarium
Stortorget 7, Old TownMixology pros
This award-winning cocktail bar on Stortorget in the Old Town is famous for their superior cocktail skills and unique old-school apothecary atmosphere, but the place is still something of a well-kept secret. Drop by for a cocktail and a bite to eat and find out what makes Pharmarium so special.
Bar à Vins
Narvavägen 32, ÖstermalmQuintessentially French
This charming French wine bar, located just off Karlaplan is synonymous with its red-and-white tablecloths. Enjoy seasonal fare with French overtones along with rich wines from select organic vineyards. Bar à Vins offers both champagne and wine tastings for those who wish to acquaint themselves further.
Kryp In
2 addressesA cosy nook
Among the narrow alleyways of the Old Town and close to Mariatorget, both Kryp In restaurants are intimate holes-in-the-wall serving homemade dishes in rustic surroundings. Hang out and enjoy something to eat and a glass of wine in peaceful parts of town, though still close to the major hotspots.
Kryp In Gamla stan
Austin Food Works
Norrtullsgatan 24, VasastanSouthern soul
Austin Food Works exudes authentic Americana vibes à la the Deep South intermingled with hickory smoke and Mexican flavours. Comfort food with a modern twist is served and the menu features everything from mac 'n' cheese, fried chicken and the obvious Rueben sandwich. The bar serves innovative moonshine concoctions.
La Tonteria
Rådmansgatan 73, VasastanModern tapas restaurant
Make your way to the quieter quarters of Norrmalm and visit the tapas restaurant La Tonteria. This modern taverna serves Spanish food with everything from cheese to charcuterie and seafood, and you'll find Spanish wines alongside sangria and beer in the bar. The perfect place for a spontaneous dinner or a family dinner.