The best restaurants on Djurgården

Head out to an old shipyard on Djurgården, either by land or by boat. Just before you get to the island of Beckholmen, you'll find this delightful bistro that focuses on Swedish cooking and a menu offering something for everyone, from complex flavour combinations to well-loved classics.

On the far side of Djurgårdsbrunnsviken you'll find Villa Källhagen. The restaurant has its roots in the 18th century, but these days the focus is on contemporary Swedish cuisine. The weekend brunches are popular, as are the bistro area for lunch and outdoor seating area on sunny days.

This restaurant is a real Djurgården institution, with its roots in the 18th century. It's now a contemporary restaurant in historic surroundings, serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. Food, music and a lively atmosphere are the order of the day and the menu consists of classic dishes with a modern twist. Naturally, Hasselback potatoes, which were invented here in the 1950s, are a firm fixture on the menu, but in a new guise with various tasty toppings and accompaniments.

In a beautiful Swiss chalet-style former merchant's villa with views over the waters of Djurgårdsbrunnsviken you can eat classic Swedish dishes such as potato pancakes with bacon and lingonberries, gravad lax with creamed dill potatoes and meatballs. Villa Godthem has existed here since 1897 and continues to serve hungry guests excellent traditional gourmet homecooking.

This 19th century art gallery building has been restored to its former glory and welcomes guests to enjoy good food, drink and, of course art, in relaxed surroundings. The menu is updated according to the seasons, but there's an emphasis on shellfish and a curated wine list. Art-wise, they arrange exhibitions in the restaurant, an exhibition format they call"Current Forms".

The Nordic Museum isn't just a destination for history and culture, you can also come here for a gastronomic experience. The restaurant in the iconic museum building right next to Djurgårdsbron, serves lunch daily in the form of at least four different homemade dishes. The menu always includes something vegetarian, gluten-free and lactose-free, and for the little ones there are meatballs and pancakes. 

The Museum of Spirits and its restaurant are housed in former naval buildings a stone's throw from the Vasa Museum. Not surprisingly, there's a strong emphasis on drinks, but equally on their partnership with modern, Nordic food. You could go so far as to call it fine dining - expect elegant gastronomy and exciting pairings.

The restaurant Ulla Winbladh is right next door to Godthem, housed in an impressive 19th century building and serving Swedish homecooking de luxe, with dishes including beef Rydberg, Bellmans herring and their famous meatballs, in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.