The guide to Gothenburg's cosiest restaurants

Going to Unity Jazz on Kyrkogatan feels just like going to someone's home. Music plays, the wine flows and flavours hit the right spot. Most evenings a week you can listen to live sessions and jams, and sometimes they even put on jazz lunches for jazz cats and recent converts alike. The menu includes fish and shellfish, meat and vegetarian dishes. Medium-sized dishes take centre stage, but there are also a few main courses.

The sloped ceiling with its deep window alcoves creates lots of cosy nooks in Hotel Pigalle's restaurant on the fourth floor. Large flowery sofas fill the open dining room with a luxurious yet homely atmosphere. The sofa groups in the outdoor dining area create a living room feel. 

At Biljardpalatset's restaurant, families, friends, and couples can get together and soak up the atmosphere. Classic dishes with an international touch are the order of the day, available as both smaller and larger plates and changing according to the seasonal availability of ingredients. 

Burgundy leather sofas, patterned rugs and dark wood - you get the idea. The Golden Days serves dishes such as their signature flambéed pepper steak with potato gratin. There's an extensive, classic menu as well as a pub menu to choose from, with meat, fish and vegetarian options. It's also worth mentioning they specialise in beer and whisky, so if you're a fan of either (or both) of these drinks, you've come to the right place.

Homely, charming, leafy - all words that describe this delightful neighbourhood restaurant. Make yourself at home, order a jug of Pimms or sangria or a glass of wine. Take a deep dive into the menu which includes small dishes perfect for sharing, before tucking into one of the flatbread pizzas. Enjoy dinner on your own or together with friends, family or colleagues.

Ma Cuisine positively oozes French bistro vibes. Everything revolves around the kitchen (that's where the magic happens, after all), where the skilled chefs cook all the food from scratch from Swedish ingredients. Food is then served with a carefully selected wine creating a complete experience with both contemporary and classic elements. 

Asian vibes flow freely at OGBG, inside the Comfort Hotel Göteborg on Stenpiren right next to the water. The menu draws inspiration mainly from Thailand, Vietnam and China, but flavours from India, Korea and Cambodia also find their way into dishes, along with locally sourced ingredients. The decor is detailed and in muted colours.

Cosy pub vibes meet edgy steampunk details, creating a unique, spicy atmosphere. Dating couples and groups of friends meet up here to escape reality for a while among the muted tones and soft lighting. Plus for the staff in elaborate steampunk outfits.

Plumply upholstered furniture in rich jewel colours, eleborate decorative details and generously draped textiles take your cosy night out to new levels. The interiors are reminiscent of a 19th century Parisian apartment.

This spectacular city resort has several restaurants and bars in glamorous Art Deco style. There's Archie's, which serves luxurious comfort food, and the hotel's sky bar Gogogaga, where you can share fusion dishes and drink cocktails with fantastic views over Gothenburg. 

Norda is housed in what used to be Gothenburg's central post office and the restaurant fills the magnificent space with red velvet furniture, drapes and glamorous Manhattan-inspired vibes. Perfect for a stylish yet snug dinner with dishes such as lobster, oyster and hamburgers on the menu. Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson is the creative partner.

Modern Nordic gastronomy meets Asian tradition at much-lauded vRÅ, within the Clarion Hotel Post. A meeting that's also reflected in the exclusive interiors. Eat creative seasonal dishes surrounded by decor with locally-sourced materials and Asian elements.

The Mediterranean-inspired brasserie at the Hyatt Place Gothenburg Central aims to create a relaxed and inviting environment where everyone feels welcome, whether for lunch, dinner, or drinks at the bar. In the evenings, the atmosphere becomes a bit more continental, with small plates to share around the table.

Experience a slice of the Italian 50s at the Bellora boutique hotel in the heart of Avenyn. Renowned pizzas and pasta dishes are served in their cosy ristorante among large floral sofas and charming decorative details. Fill the table with Italian favourites from the open kitchen and finish off with a classic dessert.

The boundary between Gothenburg and France is blurred at At Le Comptoir – the small cheese bistro on Avenyn resembles more of a little hole-in-the-wall in the French countryside. It's cosy with tables close together, a relaxed yet lively atmosphere, and candlelight and muted lighting. On the menu, naturally, are cheeses and other delicacies from France, paired with equally French wine.

You'll find this little gem right next door to the Hotel Bellora, in the heart of central Gothenburg. They serve a pan-Asian menu with dishes from all over Asia, in particular Japan and China. The premises are inviting with impressive decor with patterned textiles and walls hung with colourful art. Come by with a special date, or colleagues or friends for a big night out.

Teatergatan, housed in a grand historic building, is a modern brasserie with a great atmosphere. 1920s-inspired interiors complete with velvet sofas, Kentia palms and a muted colour palette set the tone. The kitchen is inspired by different parts of the world - the menu includes everything from fresh oysters and moules to burgers.

An exotic restaurant experience that's cosy in an unconventional way. Sit in bamboo booths surrounded by tropical greenery and rainforest sounds from the loudspeakers.

Behind Grano is the Chef of the Year winner Thomas Sjögren and his brother, who have created a relaxed environment with influences from the forests in northern Sweden where they grew up. They serve fine pizza and small dishes with Southern European flavours that vary depending on the season.

Despite its size, this restaurant feels properly warm and cosy thanks to its hunting lodge-inspired decor and the park outside. Boules lanes, greenery and rustic interiors all combine to enhance the relaxed atmosphere. Tuck into hearty food in charming surroundings.

The menu at Familjen consists of West Swedish gastronomy of the more rustic variety and guests can choose between a three course set menu or à la carte. The warm, welcoming atmosphere draws in the crowds throughout the week, for the food, atmosphere and Familjen's imaginative cocktails.

Meet has been named one of the best meat restaurants in Sweden and if you're hankering after a really good quality piece of meat, you'll find it here. But the surroundings and atmosphere are equally as important, smart yet laid-back, with classic steakhouse elements.

Drop in spontaneously or book a table in advance – at Suber everyone's welcome, even the dog. Expect a menu full of fish and seafood; a lovechild between West Coast and traditional French cuisine. To accompany this, there's wine, wine and more wine, or selected cocktails or a beer if you prefer.

At Micmatbar, rough-hewn exposed brick walls, mismatched furniture, and a dark colour palette create a cosy atmosphere in the below-ground venue. Share a bunch of snacks and small dishes with creative flavour combinations, and enjoy locally brewed beer and interesting natural wines.

Koka, which has one star in the Guide Michelin, is an experience for both your palette and your eyes. The minimalist interiors create a luxurious yet snug atmopshere and have been nominated for several architecture prizes. The kitchen's watchwords are "West Swedish gastronomy"; the menu reflects a great love of the West Coast and the region's world class produce.

Tucked away downstairs at Michelin-starred Koka, this celebrated wine bar serves ambitious small plates. Stop by for a glass of wine and some oysters or enjoy a full dinner in a relaxed manner. Hop up at the bar or take a seat at one of the bar tables and order a bit of everything.

For a slightly unusual cosy atmosphere, Botánico is a great choice with its lush tropical style. The restaurant serves fusion dishes with flavours from Asia and Latin America, and in the pulsating jungle bar downstairs cocktails are shaken amidst the greenery.

The Flying Barrel is a classic Irish gastropub, with a social atmosphere, hearty pub food, and a wide selection of beers and whiskies. It's a place to gather with friends and family over a drink, perhaps watch a match, or enjoy a meal together. The decor is in classic pub style, with sturdy wood furniture, oriental rugs, plenty of pictures on the walls, and warm lighting that creates a cosy feeling.

In Vasastan, La Strega is a family-friendly Italian restaurant that's just as popular for its cosy atmosphere as it is for the food served. Both the interior and the dishes are rustic in design and are perfect for both date night and family dinner. Be sure to check out the wine list. 

Texas Longhorn draws inspiration from the Southern States, serving ribs, steaks, and other meaty dishes, often with smoky flavours from the grill. In the restaurant on Södra Vägen, you're surrounded by exposed brick walls, fairy lights, leather-upholstered furniture, and Texas-inspired details. Just as nice for a post-work gathering as for a cosy dinner.

At no-frills Bord 27 the pared-back decor combined with warm lighting creates a cosy atmosphere. Drop by for a glass of natural wine or a locally produced beer, or take a pew and eat something delicious from the rustic menu.

Right next to Stora Dammen pond, framed by the greenery of Slottsparken, Villa Belparc is housed in a charming old functionalist building. Enjoy Swedish and European classics, have a coffee with something freshly baked from the in-house bakery, or cool off with a drink on the large outdoor terrace. During the summer months, the place becomes a true oasis where, surrounded by fairy lights and water, you can also listen to live performances.

This vibrant neighbourhood bistro on Andra Långgatan works equally well for a lunch in the city, as for a dinner with Mediterranean influences or some post-work socialising. Hang out in modern bistro surroundings with white tiles, carver chairs and large windows overlooking the street.

Not much can beat a walk in a leafy, verdant park and this cosy Linné restaurant serves up park-life vibes all year round. Enjoy Roman-style pizzas served among trees and lanterns, indoors. As well as food, the restaurant also offers selected nature wines, locally-brewed wines and cocktails with natural flavours.

In the heart of the charming Linné district, you'll find this bistro-pub in historic, unique premises. The building was once used for storing blocks of ice, but these days it's anything but chilly. The restaurant is divided into two floors with an adjacent wine cellar and there's plenty of space for both large and small parties with lots of cosy corners. Choose from the menu's rustic bistro dishes or just go for a charcuterie plate with something good to drink.

In the heart of the charming Linné neighbourhood, this intimate restaurant serves Austrian and Swiss food. Heavy curtains and wallpapered walls create a welcoming atmosphere and the combination of decor and hearty food will get you into a cosy mood in no time

With rustic wooden beams, sloping roofs, and a location right by the water, historic Sjömagasinet is equally beloved for its cosy atmosphere as for its well-composed fish and seafood dishes. For decades, both locals and global stars like the Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen have come here to enjoy marine delicacies in both classic and modern styles. You can also host parties and weddings here.

Authentic Greek dishes, cooked with tradition and love, are the order of the day at this Majorna-based neighbourhood restaurant. The restaurant's sun-yellow walls evoke thoughts of a taverna in the Mediterranean archipelago, complete with chequered tablecloths and flower boxes here and there. The menu features a mix of small mezedes and main courses like moussaka, grilled skewers, and Greek salad, and if you want something tasty to drink, there's beer, wine, and cocktails to choose from. 

In the heart of Majorna, you'll find this relaxed neighbourhood bistro focusing on classic bistro dishes and organic wines. Meet for dinner, brunch, or drinks at the bar in a modern bistro setting with continental and Nordic influences.

In the heart of Majorna, this Italy-inspired restaurant focuses on authentic cooking and social service. Food is combined with a wide selection of Italian wines in cosy surroundings with dark woods and plenty of greenery. Gather around for lunch, dinner, or an aperitivo at the bar.

A visit to this neighbourhood restaurant should feel like walking into a comfy living room, whether you're having a glass of wine, order a few snacks or tuck into a three-courses dinner. The atmosphere is warm and relaxed. The menu is based on Swedish culinary traditions and dishes are made from carefully selected ingredients. 

La Cucina Italiana is a friendly, welcoming restaurant close to Liseberg and other attractions. During the summer months you can eat al fresco and drink delicious wines surrounded by leafy palms, while inside the restaurant warm red brick walls create a cosy feel.

The Melody Club in Gothenburg is a restaurant and karaoke bar focused on Japanese fusion and cocktails. In other words, it's a fully Japanese concept where you can enjoy small dishes to share at the table, drink delicious cocktails, and then rock out in your own karaoke room, if you wish.

Meet up for a local lunch, dinner with the family or a drink in the bar with friends at Stures Brasseri opposite Scandinavium arena. The brasserie, which is close to all the attractions of Gothenburg's events district, has a warm, welcoming atmosphere. 

At SK Mat & Människor, inspiration has been drawn from nature, giving the restaurant a sophisticated look with beautiful timbers and natural stone. The open kitchen, where well-composed dishes are prepared using seasonal ingredients, contributes to the cosy atmosphere.  

Muted and moody Brasserie Lavette is a rustic brasserie on Södra Vägen, in a prime location in Lorensberg. Wood and cane chairs combine with exposed brick walls, a plant-covered ceiling and walls hung with art. The menu includes fresh shellfish, selected cuts of meat and thoughtful plant-based alternatives. Stop by for a drink, a slap-up dinner or weekend brunch with good friends.

As the name suggests, nature is the common denominator here, in both interior design and food and drink. Wooden furniture, muted colors and paintings on the walls give the feeling of being in a living room, where you're invited to a dinner prepared with sustainable ingredients - with a glass of natural wine, naturally, or a cocktail made with high-quality spirits.

Is there anything cosier than grilling food directly over open fire? Not if you ask the team at Totale, where they cook dishes either on the grill or in their wood-fired oven. It's delightfully rowdy, slightly like being at a friend's house where your glass is regularly refilled and you're served a dinner with smoky flavours.

This Asian fusion restaurant from the Familjen Orrmyr restaurant group serves medium-sized dishes such as wontons, steamed buns and sashimi, accompanied by pairing cocktails. The warm, welcoming restaurant houses a dining room and a glassed-in bar on separate floors, and there's also a slightly separate area ideal for, for example, family dinners.  

If you're in search of cosy industrial romance, Gamlestaden is the place to head to, specifically Dubbelhakan, which is housed in a homely setting with industrial charm. Surrounded by exposed brick walls, you can enjoy Neapolitan pizza straight from the wood-fired oven, or a selection of small plates, cheeses, and charcuterie if you prefer. There's also wine, both traditional varieties and a few quirky natural wines, all carefully sourced from small-scale producers. 

In an intimate venue reminiscent of a stylish living room, La Taqueria invites you to a truly authentic Mexican dining experience. Surrounded by rust-red walls and heavy curtains, you can enjoy tacos and other fresh street food made with love, craftsmanship, and good ingredients. You can also come here simply for some snacks and margaritas at the bar.

The delightful Hjortviken Country Club has two restaurants, both of which are open to both hotel guests and anyone who wants to pop in for something nice to eat and drink. Choose between Spanish Bay Bay and The Club Room, an homage to legendary Swedish chef Tore Wretman, Both are equally cosy and well-designed with American low-key glamour in mind.

Folket på Garveriet serves food prepared with equal parts warmth and heart. Come as you are and enter a welcoming atmosphere where you can hang out from morning until evening, as there's a restaurant, café, and bakery all under one roof. Start by ordering some snacks and then wander through the menu to Folket's sandwiches, main courses, or larger dishes. Pair your meal with a nice drink, perhaps a glass of natural wine?

Housed in an old station building in Hisingen, this cosy lunch restaurant and country store opened its doors in 2024. Station Säve is decorated in a timeless style with patterned wallpapers, wooden furniture, and vintage lamps. Enjoy classic lunch dishes and buy fine foods to take home.

If you're looking for a dining experience in beautiful natural surroundings, head to Hovås Kallbadhus. Despite the name, it's not actually a cold-bathing house, but consists of a restaurant and sauna right next to the beach and the rocks. The restaurant, which has views of the waves and the sunset, serves classic dishes made with seasonal ingredients.

As the name suggests, it should feel like being at someone's home here. There's an easy-going atmosphere between the tables where couples, friends, and families mingle over delicious dishes in Swedish and European style. Interesting wines are served alongside.