Top 5 things to eat and drink in Stockholm, Sweden to get invigorated
Ideoli co-founders George and Chris recognize that traveling the world to connect one-on-one with our partners and check on production runs and client installations is one of the best parts of their jobs. They never tire of the incredible opportunities they have to explore other countries and never fail to get invigorated by the cultures and people they encounter. One of their recent places to visit is Stockholm, the capital of Sweden. Since the mid-17th century, Stockholm has been the cultural and historical center of the country. It is the country’s largest city and its second largest port. Built on a series of islands, each section boasts its own distinct character.
Gamla Stan, the old town, has architecture from the 16th and 17th centuries. Östermalm is the wealthier section, and in Norrmalm you’ll find the city’s business and shopping districts. Beautiful parks and museums are located in Djurgården while Södermalm will appeal to the more fashionable and bohemian set. A mixture of old bridges and modern overpasses connect the islands to the districts on the mainlands of Upland and Södermanland.
From architecture to furniture, Swedes are known for their distinct modern, functional style and examples can be found throughout Stockholm. Visit any of the more than 80 museums, including the National Museum’s design section, and you’ll find examples of art and other treasures. As you walk around Stockholm, take in the city’s breathtaking architecture. Much of it has remained intact since the country has not been at war in centuries.
In Stockholm, you’ll also find many places to enjoy a good meal, including Asian fusion and fine-dining restaurants, kebab pizza joints and restaurants that specialize in traditional Swedish cuisine, known as husmans kost. George and Chris did not pass up on the opportunity to enjoy the pleasure of sampling the city’s wonderful food and drink. Along with the folks they met, it’s what kept them invigorated throughout their visit. Here is a list of the top 5 things they suggest you should eat and drink in Stockholm:
1. Ostkaka
This simple yet delicious cheesecake is an extremely popular dessert. Made with milk, eggs, sugar and almonds, it is served with the country’s famed Ligonberry jam.
2. Swedish Meatballs
Swedish Meatballs are thought of as the quintessential Swedish dish and are usually made with a mixture of beef and pork. They can also be made of other meats and are served with a flavorful gravy, potatoes (often mashed), a bowl of lingonberries and pickled cucumbers.
3. Gravad Lax
Raw salmon that has been cured in sugar, salt and dill for a number of days, this is less salty and sweeter than smoked salmon. The dish is often served with boiled yellow potatoes along with a tangy sweet mustard and dill sauce (hovmästarsås).
4. Kanelbulle (cinnamon buns)
Cinnamon buns are one of Sweden’s most beloved foods and you can find them in every café, bakery and food store throughout Stockholm . Made from leavened bread dough that is lightly sweetened (known as vetebröd), they can be flavored with such popular Swedish spices as cardamom, saffron and vanilla.
5. Coffee
The perfect accompaniment to Kanelbulle is a cup of Swedish coffee. In fact, there is a tradition in Stockhom known as fika, where people sit down to enjoy a cup of coffee while enjoying something sweet. The coffee found in local cafes is stronger than American but not as potent as an Italian espresso.
George and Chris are continually inspired and invigorated by the people they meet and the many different cuisines and cultures they get to discover in places such as Stockholm, Sweden. Traveling around the world allows them to connect with Ideoli’s partners and clients while strengthening and building upon the important relationships they have established.
