The 10 Best Restaurants In Old Town Stockholm

Gamla Stan, the historic Old Town of Stockholm, has restaurants to match its beautiful and picturesque streets. Pop into any of these for a gastronomical delight. From the traditional interiors of Den Gyldene Freden to the quirky and unusual offerings of The Pharmarium, there is something for everyone in our pick of the 10 best.

Aifur

Bar, Restaurant

Named after the Viking ship Aifur, this restaurant is the only Swedish restaurant that focuses on Viking gastronomic heritage. Extensively researched and investigated, everything is reminiscent of the Viking era, from the flavourful food to the carefully-wrought cutlery. The recipes have been adapted to the modern day, although they still retain the essence of the Viking era. Try the mead and the marinated rack of lamb.

Brasserie Le Rouge

Brasserie, Restaurant

Decorated in turn-of-the-century Parisian style, no restaurant exudes quite as much cinematic class as Le Rouge. The perfect place for an intimate, relaxed meal, Le Rouge serves a select number of classic French dishes in its plush velvet-encased interiors. The service is impeccable, and the waiters are happy to recommend any of the fine wines on the list.

Pharmarium

Although it primarily serves drinks, Pharmarium is a themed cocktail bar with a gourmet twist. It was built on the site of Sweden’s first pharmacy, which opened in 1575, and the bar continues to seek inspiration from the pharmacy in the form of its unique cocktails. The concept-focused restaurant also has some light food, including delicious salads. Be sure to stop by during your tour of Gamla Stan to try some fresh and excellent cocktails with a salad on the side.

Den Gyldene Freden

Since opening in 1722, Den Gyldene Freden (The Golden Peace) have served authentic Nordic cooking in their rustic restaurant. Several dignitaries have eaten here in the past, and many continue to do so. Among these is The Swedish Academy, which convenes here every Thursday. The members drink from their personally numbered drinking glasses kept in a special glass cabinet. There are several amazing dishes to try, but the catch of the day is always a favourite.
Österlånggatan 51, Stockholm, Sweden, +46 8 24 97 60

Fem Sma Hus

Restaurant

A few steps away from the Royal Palace is the Fem Små Hus, a restaurant known for serving speciality Swedish food. Its interiors, as the name suggests, is made up of five small interconnected houses, each steeped in history (some parts of the restaurant date back to 1651). The houses are connected by various stairs and passageways, and the walls are covered with various paintings and tapestries. Several Swedish staples are on the menu, reindeer, elk, etc, but be sure to try the interesting desserts as well, particularly the cloudberries.

Restaurant Kryp In

Restaurant, Swedish, European

For a traditionally Swedish, quiet meal, look no further than Restaurant Kryp In, tucked away in a little corner of Gamla Stan. The restaurant is small, low-ceilinged and cozy, perfect for an intimate evening out. A favourite is the grilled reindeer with the mashed potatoes and sundried lingonberries. Cocktails are served as well as food.

Hermans

Restaurant

Just outside Gamla Stan is Hermans, a wholly vegetarian restaurant. It’s an all-you-can-eat buffet, with fabulous views over Stockholm (and Gamla Stan in particular). The food is light, organic, and there are even vegan options included. You can also choose to eat al fresco and sample dishes from their outdoor grill in the summer.

Bakfickan Djuret

Restaurant

A meat-focused restaurant, the menu of Bakfickan Djuret is carefully themed. They only feature dishes using one animal at a time. The interiors are deeply traditional and reflective of hunting customs; the restaurant even has their own wine and beer cellar. This doesn’t mean that they aren’t willing to try new things; quite the contrary , the restaurant grows its own biodynamic vegetables. Everything is organic and fresh, and the perfect gastronomic treat for the selective meat eater.

Mathias Dahlgren

Restaurant

Mathias Dahlgren prides itself on its friendly staff and the intimate, cozy atmosphere. After entering, you’re led through the kitchen and shown how the food is prepared. The service at this restaurant is outstanding, with all food dislikes and allergies discussed to the minutest detail. Dishes are varied and inventive, the fish dishes are especially recommended. Make your reservations well in advance. A Michelin two-star restaurant, it is perfect for a special evening out.

Sjätte Tunnan

Restaurant

An atmospheric, Medieval-themed restaurant, Sjätte Tunnan will take you back to a bygone era with its traditional menu. The perfect end to a historical day at Medeltidsmuseet (the Medieval museum). The food is very Swedish. One of their signature dishes is elk meatballs and the ribs with honey sauce. You can also try their mead for a truly Medieval experience.

About the author

Pratyusha Prakash

Pat, as she is otherwise known, is currently studying for an MA Honours in English Literature at the University of Edinburgh. Her passions include poetry, travelling, wit, and cooking. She has a perfectionist’s attitude to coursework and essay-writing and wants to write hers as artistically and exquisitely as possible. She is always open to learning more about new ideas, opinions, cultures and lifestyles. She would like to continue studying literature for a few more years and eventually branch out into academia and/or researching and presenting documentaries, as both allow her to share the things she’s learnt with the world.