The guide to Gothenburg's cosiest restaurants

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.

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.

Project started out in 2016 as an laid-back yet ambitious neighbourhood restaurant with a homely feel and excellent food. The warm, welcoming atmosphere remains, as does the great food - but in new packaging and with a new, higher tempo. The dark, moody restaurant, decorated with chandeliers and patterned wallpaper, was awarded a Michelin star in 2021. The knowledgeable staff are happy to guide you through the tasting menu and pairing drinks. If you're a large group who want to sit separately you can book the restaurant's private dining room in the cellar. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

What could be cosier than authentic French vibes? This neighbourhood restaurant oozes a welcoming and homely atmosphere for a relaxed lunch and dinner. The menu includes their signature dish, tarte flambée, as well as selected dishes and a classic charcuterie plate. All kinds of parties and occasions are welcome here, from lunch to post-work drinks and dinner.

With humanity as their watchword, Human has created a relaxed variant of fine dining with guests' individual experience very much in focus. They serve tasting menus with their own interpretations of modern Nordic cuisine, prepared with ingredients from the local area. The interiors also follow a Nordic theme, with muted colours, heavy curtains and natural materials such as wood and leather.

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.

Centrale is a charming trattoria and wine bar in Mölndal. Tuck into Italian goodies such as antipasti, pasta and risotto. They also have an extensive wine list with wines from all over Italy. Take a seat among the candlelight and enjoy.

At Mestiza, influences from travels around the world come together in a unique and personal mix. Sit among eclectic wooden furniture and patterned rugs and fill the table with international small plates and selected wines. A place to come to eat, drink and chat all evening long.

Drop by for some southern French cosiness at Bar Palavas, which is run by three childhood friends who take their inspiration from Palavas-les-flots where they used to holiday together. They've created a charming hangout on Teatergatan with a strong French theme, from the name to the decor and menu. The food itself is made with locally produced ingredients given a little Swedish twist, and of course delicious wines carefully selected from producers who make the purest wines possible.

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. 

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.

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. 

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.

At BP Brasserie, inside Biljardpalatset, families, friends, and couples can get together and soak up the atmosphere. French classics are the order of the day on the menu, available as both smaller and larger plates and change according to the seasonal availability of ingredients. 

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.

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.

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.

Restaurateur Pietro Fioriniello has created a friendly, welcoming restaurant close to Liseberg and other attractions. During the summer months you can eat al fresco surrounded by leafy palms, while inside the restaurant warm red brick walls create a cosy feel.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

The emphasis at this relaxed neighbourhood restaurant in Haga is on pizza. Whether you want to drop by spontaneously, enjoy a beer or spend a whole evening, the vibe is warm and welcoming, in surroundings that feel trendy yet cosy. Pizzas are made using flour from local producers and toppings vary depending on the chefs' moods and inspiration.

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.

Sitting next to the sea eating the catch of the day is Gothenburg at its very best. And you can do just that at Provianten, which has a sunny outdoor dining area in the harbour at Lilla Bommen. Fish and seafood are the order of the day here, and the wine list includes both classic and slightly more unusual labels. 

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.

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.

The Orrmyr family has built a small restaurant empire in Gothenburg that has become immensely popular among the city's residents. In addition to well-prepared food, the common denominator is cosy environments. Whether you choose Natur, Totale, Bord 27, Kaifo, or Brasserie Lavette you're sure to feel right at home. 

At Buenos Aires Argentine Steakhouse, you get to experience a small piece of Pampas. Gather and socialise around Argentinian, charcoal-grilled meat in a traditional way. The restaurant, which has two branches, is a cosy meeting place that suits equally well whether you come with family or friends.

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. 

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.

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. 

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.  

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.

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

Whitewashed walls give this exclusive cellar restaurant a light, fresh impression. Why not gather your friends together for a tasting menu in the chambre separée, before rounding off your dinner in the well-stocked wine cellar. Fine dining in intimate surroundings.

This popular brasserie with a French-inspired menu is just a stone's throw from Gothenburg's main thoroughfare, Avenyn. The decor, which combines the classic with the modern, feels warm and welcoming. Uncomplicated, noisy and, quite simply, cosy.