The 20 best restaurants in Stockholm right now

If you’re on the hunt for inventive, mouth-watering dishes, an electric ambiance, and refreshing drinks, Stockholm’s thriving and ever-evolving restaurant scene is where it’s at. Spread across the city, you’ll discover culinary delights at every turn, offering flavours from around the globe – from Italian favourites to Japanese treats and French delicacies. Whether you’re seeking Michelin-starred gems or more casual hangouts, there’s a vibe and plate for everyone, guaranteed to dazzle your taste buds.

Read on as we guide you through 20 of the must-visit restaurants in the Swedish capital.

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Bar Agrikultur, located opposite Nytorget in Södermalm, is a charming eatery cherished by both locals and visitors. The menu celebrates local, seasonal ingredients and prioritises sustainability, with each dish featuring produce sourced from Swedish farmers and served in a sharing style. This makes it perfect for dinners with friends or a cosy date night. Don’t miss their viral salt-brined cucumber topped with smetana and honey, which became an Instagram sensation (and the reason why many flock to this spot), or the flavourful point cabbage with caramelised buttermilk. All these delicious offerings are perfectly complemented by a glass of natural wine from their extensive selection.

Skånegatan 79, 116 35 Stockholm

Another Södermalm gem is the Italian restaurant Gazza, which became an instant hit after opening in 2022. While the exterior might seem unassuming, step inside and you’re enveloped in a wonderfully homely atmosphere. But the true star of this eatery is its homemade pasta, often hailed as the best in the Nordics. Though every dish on the menu is a delight, our top picks are the 'raviolo all'uovo' with ricotta, chives, hazelnuts, and egg yolk, and the classic 'spaghetti cacio e pepe' with three types of pepper and pine nuts.

Gazza is also one of those places worth visiting just for their wines or desserts. Their famed tiramisú with dried olives is a delicacy that’s out of this world.

Hornsgatan 66, 118 21 Stockholm

If you're passionate about pizza then Babette in Vasastan is the spot for you. Though you might have to wait in line (unless you plan and book early) to get a table at this snug eatery, trust us, it’s worth every minute. Just ask any local – they’ll rave about Babette’s rustic wood-fired pizzas, hailed as the best in town for their fresh and inventive toppings on a perfectly crispy crust. Our topping of choice? Tomato, anchovies, capers, and pecorino.

Not a pizza lover? No worries. Babette has got you covered with a daily changing menu of small plates that showcase the finest ingredients. Plus, their wine selection is nothing short of impressive. Hot tip: Check out their Instagram page for daily menu updates.

Roslagsgatan 6, 113 55 Stockholm

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On the same Vasastan street as Babette, you’ll find Restaurang Bord, an intimate 24-seat bohemian bistro led by the talented chef Joel Aronsson. Utilising locally sourced, fresh ingredients, the restaurant’s Mediterranean-inspired menu mainly features dishes cooked over an open fire. Highlights include the heavenly wood-fired turbot and French white beans with clams. The no-fuss, pared-back plates are simply delicious, and the warm and welcoming atmosphere will undoubtedly have you coming back for more.

Roslagsgatan 43, 113 54 Stockholm

Nestled in the heart of the city just off Stureplan, Riche is a beloved fixture in Stockholm’s restaurant scene, having first opened its doors in 1893. With over a century of history, the restaurant and its adjoining Lilla Baren have become the go-to spot for the city’s who’s who, never losing their charm. While Riche is famed for its classic Swedish meatballs, the menu is brimming with other delectable dishes that blend French brasserie flavours with a Nordic twist. We highly recommend their burrata with summer tomatoes, pistou, pickled green tomatoes, grilled onion, and fried bread. Don’t miss their ‘Plat du jour’ either – a daily special that boasts the best seasonal ingredients.

If you find yourself in Södermalm, make sure to pop by Riche Fenix, the fairly new little sister of Riche. This spot serves up an equally delicious menu and attracts a younger, fashion-forward crowd. Come the weekend, it transforms into one of the liveliest spots in town, perfect for those seeking a buzzy atmosphere to dance the night away. Highlights from Riche Fenix’s offering include their hotdog with Merguez sausage, mustard cream, and roasted onion, as well as the toast topped with mussels, tomato, and gremolata.

Birger Jarlsgatan 4, 114 34 Stockholm
Götgatan 40, 118 26 Stockholm

Yearning for a Mediterranean escape but can’t make the trip right now? Solen, an expansive eatery in the meatpacking district just outside the city centre, is the next best thing. Aptly named (Solen means ‘the sun’ in Swedish), this restaurant offers some of Stockholm’s most mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine, guaranteed to brighten even the murkiest days. The splendid menu features Spanish, Italian, and Greek flavours, with highlights like grilled seabass with aioli, bouillabaisse vinaigrette, fennel, and coriander, as well as tiger’s milk ceviche with yellowtail, physalis, tomatillo, kumquats, and macadamia nuts.

With its laid-back, bustling atmosphere and large, sun-drenched terrace, Solen is perfect for hanging out with friends, lingering over one of the restaurant’s signature cocktails, and nibbling on luscious bites. It’s also become a popular after-work drink spot, always serving great vibes and a welcoming ambience. After all, the place was founded by Michelin-starred chefs Adam Dahlberg and Albin Wessman.

Hallgränd 45, 121 62 Johanneshov

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The oldest restaurant on this list, Operakällaren, boasts a history stretching back over 200 years. Proudly claiming its spot as Sweden’s most famous dining room, it is housed in the same grand 18th-century building as the Royal Swedish Opera. And yes, this eatery has a Michelin star, too. A champion of traditional Swedish cuisine, the restaurant is led by chef Viktor Westerlind and features a seasonal menu that changes frequently. One of the most popular offerings at Operakällaren is its ‘julbord,’ a traditional Swedish Christmas buffet that includes an array of pickled herring, salmon, and meatballs. It’s a must-try if you’re visiting Stockholm in December.

Within the restaurant, you’ll also find an intimate bistro, Bakfickan (‘the back pocket’), with 28 seats that can’t be booked in advance. Here, guests can relish a host of Swedish delights, such as bleak roe from Kalix with toast, red onion, chives, and smetana, as well as cured salmon with dill creamed potatoes.

Operahuset, Karl XII:s torg, 103 22 Stockholm

Since its opening in 2022, Brutalisten has become the talk of the town, and not just because it’s led by the famed German artist Carsten Höller (who’s also a close friend and collaborator of Miuccia Prada). The buzz is equally about the food: a menu that boldly features one-ingredient dishes based on Höller’s Brutalist manifesto. Forget complex, decorative fine dining – here, the ingredients are the stars of the show.

Located in the central area of Norrmalm, this art-filled space provides an eclectic backdrop to savour a unique culinary experience. With two tasting menus, ‘Brutal’ and ‘Total Brutal,’ you’ll indulge in seasonal vegetables from small organic farms, line-caught fish, hand-picked shellfish, and meat sourced from holistic environments. Expect intriguing ingredients like monkfish, chanterelles, and blackcurrant to grace your plate, enjoyed with a scrumptious glass of wine or one of their non-alcoholic drinks crafted from carefully sourced fruits, flowers, and berries.

Regeringsgatan 71, 111 56 Stockholm

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At Frantzén, Stockholm’s first and only restaurant with three Michelin stars, every visit is an adventure. Lodged in a three-story building near Hötorget, this renowned eatery offers a meal for the books. With a frequently changing tasting menu kept as a surprise, guests embark on an exciting, tastebud-tingling exploration throughout the entire restaurant. You’ll move between rooms and floors as you dine, savouring dishes often influenced by Japanese cuisine. Expect a laid-back, unpretentious atmosphere with top-notch food and stunning decor, guaranteeing an unforgettable culinary odyssey.

Klara Norra Kyrkogata 26, 111 22 Stockholm

Speaking of unconventional fine dining, Punk Royale – which opened its doors in Södermalm over a decade ago and has since expanded to Oslo and Copenhagen – remains a firm favourite for those who like their dinner spiced up. And we mean spiced up – think a dimly lit, club-like atmosphere complete with blaring bangers, where guests are occasionally hand-fed bites of caviar, foie gras, and truffles, among other treats.

It all started with chef-owner Joakim Almqvist’s rebellion against stiff, overly formal, white-table-clothed dining and has since become one of Stockholm’s most fun dining experiences. The restaurant’s menu takes its cues from around the world, served in unexpected formations and playful presentations. Be sure to book your table well in advance to secure a spot on this wild ride.

Folkungagatan 128, 116 30 Stockholm

One more Italian standout in our roundup (because honestly, who doesn’t love Italian food?) is Café Nizza, nestled in the vibrant SoFo area. This neighbourhood bistro is adored for its imaginative dishes that blend Italian cuisine with French flair. But what else would you expect from owner and chef Fredrik Lundberg, the mastermind behind beloved spots like Babette, the Östermalm deli Schmaltz, and the ramen joint Tengu?

Café Nizza delights with unique offerings like the rigatoni with pork neck and fennel pollen and the monkfish with black cabbage, broad beans, and beurre blanc. And let’s not forget the desserts: the Pavlova with mascarpone and blueberries and the refreshing mint-stracciatella ice cream are perfect palate cleansers after a hearty meal.

Åsögatan 171, 116 32 Stockholm

A Michelin-starred Japanese gem in Vasastan, Sushi Sho is the ultimate destination for authentic, Edomae-style sushi in Stockholm. Made using the freshest seafood and vegetables, all sourced sustainably, Sushi Sho provides an unparalleled culinary journey.

The restaurant serves only one menu, the ‘Omakase+Tsumami,’ consisting of about 15 exquisitely prepared bites that vary according to the season and available produce. These dishes are crafted in the open kitchen and served to the entire bar simultaneously during sittings. There’s a reason why this place has garnered a Michelin star; trust us, it’s the closest thing you can get to Tokyo.

Upplandsgatan 45, 113 28 Stockholm

A great meal is only made better with stunning views, and Gondolen, perched on the 11th floor above Slussen with vistas over Gamla Stan and the Baltic Sea, offers just that. This beloved restaurant, treasured by locals and tourists, recently underwent a facelift, resulting in a sleek new look and a refreshed menu. Chef Patrik Castillo, who also honed his skills at Riche, brings a modern spin on Swedish flavours.

The elegant interiors, featuring plush leather chairs and wooden accents, perfectly complement the panoramic surroundings. As you gaze at the glistening sea and watch boats traverse Stockholm’s islands, indulge in exquisite dishes like the turbot on the bone with butter-boiled vegetables from Ulriksdal’s garden or the Linguine Vongole with white wine, parsley, garlic, and Espelette pepper.

Stadsgården 6, 116 45 Stockholm

A trendy, in-the-know restaurant tucked away in SoFo, Bambi is one of those spots where you go for the food and stay for the vibes. Favoured by many young creatives in the city, Bambi offers a hearty menu with French-inspired flavours. We recommend trying one of their seafood dishes, featuring freshly caught fish bursting with taste.

At Bambi, the fun continues beyond the food. Along with the delectable bites, the restaurant boasts an extensive wine list, ready to be explored and paired with your meal. With live DJs spinning both old and new hits and the occasional opera singer popping by to give a performance, the atmosphere at this hideaway is always vibrant and full of energy.

Bjurholmsgatan 18, 116 63 Stockholm

A quaint and hip spot that has quickly become a favourite lunch destination in Södermalm, A Bowl & Plates boasts an utterly fresh menu featuring everything from healthy, veggie-filled bowls to dishes that incorporate flavours from around the world. Dive into tasty seafood bites, or try the lamb tacos and pesto gnocchi. And don’t forget to save room for dessert – their waffles with whipped cream and berry compote (a very Swedish treat) are a little slice of heaven.

On the drink front, A Bowl & Plates excels, too. Wine lovers will be thrilled by the restaurant’s extensive natural selection, which is one of the largest in town. Meanwhile, their non-alcoholic offerings are equally impressive, ensuring everyone finds something to enjoy.

Blecktornsgränd 8, 118 24 Stockholm

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The name of this Vasastan hangout might suggest a journey into a world of incredible flavours, but it actually comes from the huge windows that adorn the space. Nonetheless, the food remains fantastic. With a menu that marries Nordic flavours with international influences, dreamt up by Michelin-starred restaurateur Klas Lindberg, Portal’s uncomplicated cuisine has become a go-to for many. Our top picks include the slow-braised lamb terrine from Swedish farms with summer greens, spicy chive mayonnaise, fried potato, truffle, and red wine jus, and the spiced and charred rainbow trout with creamy potatoes, kohlrabi, horseradish, and Sandefjord sauce with dill.

The earthy-toned, rustic decor creates a homely atmosphere perfect for lounging with friends. Portal also serves as an excellent pit stop on your next stroll around town, offering a weekly changing lunch menu that keeps things fresh and exciting.

Sankt Eriksplan 1, 113 21 Stockholm

Would you have dinner at an old prison? If the place in question is Häktet, we certainly would. Housed in a former 18th-century Södermalm jail for petty criminals who couldn’t afford to pay their bail, the restaurant’s modern and stylish decor quickly makes you forget its past. And then there’s the food – far from the grub the prisoners would have eaten back in the day.

With classic European flavours reimagined with a contemporary edge, Häktet’s menu features criminally good dishes, like the grilled club steak with smoked mini Romano and Caesar dressing and the fresh potatoes with onions, browned butter, and sour cream. As twilight blankets the city, Häktet transforms into a popular spot where Södermalm locals gather to catch up with pals over an Aperol Spritz or two.

Hornsgatan 82, 118 21 Stockholm

Hantverket, located in leafy Östermalm, serves Swedish soul food with a dash of international flair. Executive chef Stefan Ekengren has curated a menu that’s sure to hit the spot: picture succulent boneless pork chop with trout roe sauce, glazed pointed cabbage, and pommes pinnes; hearty stewed macaroni “vongole” with cockles, fennel, and garlic croutons; or chilled soup of green tomatoes with blackened avocado, jalapeño, kohlrabi, and cucumber.

After dinner, make your way to the restaurant’s dimly lit bar, boasting moody decor and an intimate ambience. Indulge in their inventive signature cocktails like the ‘Soda P.O.P.’ with June Peach Gin, Aperol, Vedrenne Passionfruit, lactic acid, and CO2, or the ‘Foamo’ with Absolut Vodka, vanilla, hibiscus, Dubonnet, lingonberry, lemon, and egg white. These creative concoctions provide the perfect finishing touch to a delightful meal.

Sturegatan 15a, 114 36 Stockholm

A Japanese-style gastro bar in the heart of Stockholm, Miyakodori has earned its reputation as the ultimate Yakitori Izakaya spot in the city. With a menu bursting with flavours that transport guests to the bustling streets of Tokyo, this spot draws inspiration from a namesake restaurant in the Japanese capital, where one of the founders, Max Westerlund Inazawa, honed his craft.

At Miyakodori, the skewers are a must-try, served hot and steaming. Our favourites include the ‘Savoy Cabbage’ with leek togarashi and butter and the ‘Momo’ with chicken lower thigh and a spicy rub blend. Pair these bites with a Japanese beer, sake, or one of the eatery’s zesty mocktails.

Upplandsgatan 7, 111 23 Stockholm

Lilla Ego, which translates to ‘small ego,’ perfectly describes this Vasastan neighbourhood gem. With its compact size, exposed brick walls, and vintage furniture, the modest yet homely space lets the food speak for itself. And boy, does the food deliver. Lilla Ego’s menu centres on Nordic root vegetables, fish, and seafood, offering some of the tastiest lobster in town. Owners and chefs Daniel Räms and Tom Sjöstedt showcase their deep love for Swedish cuisine in each meticulously crafted dish. Pair it all with a pint of Swedish beer or a glass of sumptuous wine.

While the food is at a fine dining level, the atmosphere at Lilla Ego is wonderfully relaxed, making it the perfect spot for a snug date night or a laid-back dinner.

Västmannagatan 69, 113 26 Stockholm