One of the greatest pleasures of visiting Sweden is embracing the art of fika – that quintessential Swedish ritual of slowing down, enjoying a hot beverage, and pairing it with something sweet (preferably cinnamon-scented). In and around Stockholm, you’ll find plenty of cosy cafés perfect for this tradition, but a few stand out not just for their treats, but for their settings and atmosphere.

Stockholm has a reputation for being one of Europe’s priciest capitals—and while that holds some truth, it is possible to eat well without draining your travel budget. After two visits to this stylish and food-loving city, I’ve uncovered a handful of restaurants that deliver big on taste, atmosphere, and local charm—without the sticker shock.

Stockholm has a way of drawing you back. Two years after our first visit, we returned to Sweden’s capital for another short summer getaway, once again with my parents, to mark two special occasions: my husband’s 35th birthday and my parents’ 41st wedding anniversary. Over the course of 48 hours, we revisited old favourites, discovered new gems, and soaked up the city’s serene charm and island scenery.