Even after the holiday décor has been stashed, Gothenburg remains a winter wonderland. Known throughout Northern Europe as the “Christmas City,” Sweden’s second city is equally notable for its maritime bounty and a revitalized culinary scene.
A coastal city in the West of Sweden, Gothenburg displays an easygoing charm and its residents are unfailingly warm and friendly – even in winter.
Those who live in Gothenburg know where to find the best of contemporary Scandinavian design and gastronomy, as well as the best place for a fika. Here are a few local favorites for the best of winter in Gothenburg.
Father and son at Restaurang Gabriel ©MRNY
Restaurang Gabriel: Apart from the fragrance of freshly-grilled fish, what emanates from Restaurang Gabriel is a genuine warmth of spirit. The father-and-son proprietors are as amiable as they are honest and kind – and their generosity of spirit pervades their landmark restaurant.
Located atop Gothenburg’s fish market, which is known throughout the city as “Feskekyrka” (the Fish Church), the restaurant is perched like the choir above the congregants who peruse Gothenburg’s seafood hall. Those who desire the catch of the day cooked to perfection climb the restaurant’s stairs to maritime heaven.
As head chef Johan Malm states, “We like to keep it simple,” which means straight from the sea to the plate. No wonder this iconic restaurant has become a symbol of Gothenburg’s gracious hospitality and exemplary seafood.
Restaurant Röda Sten during Sunday’s all-day brunch ©MRNY
Restaurant Röda Sten: Housed in a former boiler house at the entrance to the harbor, Röda Sten is an exhibition center for contemporary art and culture. Built in 1940, the building once supplied heat for local industry – but the warmth it creates now comes from artists.
Situated on the grounds of the medieval fortress of Älvsborg and a Scottish sugar refinery, the neighborhood is notable for its bohemian atmosphere, with an abundance of artists’ studios and alternative theatres and dance spaces.
One of the hubs of the artistic neighborhood is Restaurant Röda Sten, a lively café/lounge and restaurant that transforms into a cultural venue. On Sundays, the restaurant features “Meatless Sundays,” an all-day brunch comprised of Mediterranean and Scandinavian specialties. A pair of deejays utilize classic turntables to create a chill weekend lounge groove that attracts a fashionable crowd of families and hipsters. The ambiance is so warm and friendly that you’ll want to linger for a second fika.
A fika at da Matteo ©MRNY
Da Matteo: With coffee sacks stacked around the wooden tables and an open production area where guests can observe the lovingly, labor-intensive process behind each mug of handcrafted coffee, da Matteo is a specialty roastery that was designated Sweden’s “Café of the Year” in the 2015 White Guide.
First opened in 1995 as an Italian espresso bar, da Matteo now has four locations around the city, as well as a bread bakery. On Magasinsgatan where da Matteo’s roastery and bakery is surrounded by boutiques and food trucks, the café is a hive of creative energy and animated conversation.
Da Matteo purchases coffee from sustainable producers who care for the land and their employees as much as they do for their product. More than just the coffee you sip, da Matteo represents the cultural concept that we bear responsibility for what we eat and drink.
Sipping coffee at da Matteo warms you, body and soul.
Food trucks outside Artilleriet ©MRNY
Artilleriet: To walk into Artilleriet is to feel as if you’re entering the home of a well-traveled curator with a refined design aesthetic. Glowing with candlelight and suffused with the warmth of a convivial staff, the interior design shop features unique finds from around the word. Gifts are hand wrapped in paper and twine – and sealed with signature black wax.
Next door is Artilleriet the Kitchen, which offers handcrafted kitchen and everyday objects – as well as design inspiration for your own dining areas.
Bar Amuse at Hotel Pigalle ©MRNY
Bar Amuse at Hotel Pigalle: Few locales are more inviting than a cozy boîte in the middle of winter. Bar Amuse at Hotel Pigalle offers the atmosphere of Belle Époque Paris in the heart of Gothenburg. Whether you’re seeking a refuge or an afternoon tryst, the intimate lounge radiates the warmth that most people associate with the City of Light. Order a coffee – and the next round might be champagne.
