The guide to hidden gems in Stockholm

With a slightly unexpected location next to Rosenlund park, Aleks y Filip serves traditional Spanish dishes and a wide selection of wine and cocktails. The brothers behind the restaurant offer their guests more than just tapas, so this is the place to come if you want to explore Spanish cuisine beyond the usual small sharing plates.

You needn't look further than Kungsholmen to get a dose of continental air. Styrelsen is run by the people behind Pastis and serves rustic Southern European home-style food along with artisanal cocktails in a relaxed bistro setting. Add this to your to-do list if you haven't already.

Can't get enough of classic French cuisine - neither can we. Brasserie Bobonne offers a culinay trip to the continent without having to leave the comfort of Östermalm. The selective chalkboard menu is updated bi-weekly and features rustic, homely dishes such as boeuf bourguignon without any unnecessary frills.

If you appreciate Italian flavours, Nostrano is a safe bet - whether you choose to visit them in Östermalms Saluhall indoor food hall or in Södermalm. Both restaurants offer a menu filled with antipasti, pasta, main courses and desserts, along with a generous wine list. The Östermalm restaurant also has a separate wine bar.

There's room for a total of ten guests per sitting at Essence's large counter dining table, and they're served directly by the chefs themselves. The tasting menu consists of eight courses, and includes both new, surprising dishes and signature dishes that have been developed over several years. "Exclusive elegance" is the order of the day at Essence, in terms of the decor, atmosphere and what's served on the plates.

This historic arthouse cinema on Sankt Eriksplan was brought back to life in 2018 and now includes an intimate little bistro in true Art Deco style. They serve dishes in small format with flavours from all over the world and wines to suit all tastes. If you want to combine the movie with something to eat, you can even take your food or a glass of wine into the elegant cinema auditoria with you.

Inside Östermalms Saluhall you'll find Nybroe Smørrebrød, which serves authentic Danish open sandwiches. Choose from a wide selection of toppings, such as pickled herring, roast beef, warm-smoked salmon and many more. Sit and eat in the market's newly-renovated historic surroundings.

This popular restaurant that opened in 2022 is tucked away in a slightly anonymous part of Gärdet. Ok ok is run by chef Léonie Lilla, who previously worked as a chef in Singapore, along with her father-in-law Lennart Sjödin, who used to run a fishmongers in the same premises. In addition to international dishes they serves a wide selection of cider.

Scandwich, which began their journey in Malmö, took Stockholm by storm when they opened up in Midsommarkransen many years ago. They quickly gained a reputation for serving "divinely delicious sandwiches" and they've won the Swedish championships in sandwich-making. Today you'll find them in the heart of the city, with the same winning concept. Drinks include natural wines and interesting beers.

A restaurant doesn't have to be housed in a wooden 18th century building tucked away in an otherwise modern part of town to count as a hidden gem, but it certainly helps. It also doesn't have to have been awarded a green Michelin star, but that doesn't hurt either. Restaurang Oxenstiernan can boast all this and more. The restaurant is a meeting place for art, design, crafts and gastronomy, and the frequently-changing menu follows the seasons, though classic Swedish culinary craftsmanship is the common denominator. The decor, which consists largely of natural materials, also reflects Oxenstiernan's sustainable concept.  

Land of perpetual cold and the midnight sun, Norrland is under-represented when it comes to Stockholms restaurant scene. Knut however, makes up for this lapse. The northern influences are apparent in both the interior and menu. Rustic wooden surfaces and furs punctuate the interior and the kitchen serves game and Norrland-style flatbread pizza with emphasis on local produce. Thematic cranberry cocktails complete the vision.

Le Passepartout is run by father-and-son team, Jean-Yves och Leo, who have realised their dream of a welcoming place with a relaxed atmosphere and a passion for good food. They serve lunch with French flavours, and in the evening small and medium-sized dishes are the order of the day - best enjoyed, naturally, with a glass of French wine in your hand.

Despite its central location, Itamae Izakaya is easily overlooked due to its unassuming size. This sushi joint quite literally personifies the concept of hole-in-the-wall but the sushi conjured out of the kitchen is extraordinary. Apart from classic options, the menu features fish tacos and ceviche as well as artisanal beer.

Mellqvist Matbar, sister restaurant to Mellqvist Kaffebar, is a hidden gem on Rörstrandsgatan where the emphasis is on a social dining experience with French bistro dishes and hand-selected wines. Exposed brick walls, mosaic floors and industrial chairs set the tone in the unique dining room.

Indio Kitchen may be known for its Japanese-Peruvian Nikkei cuisine, but the restaurant on Kocksgatan manages to maintain a relatively low profile. Enjoy artfully prepared sushi and ceviche in a relaxed setting framed by unpolished concrete and minimalist wooden furniture.

Ambitions are high at this fine dining restaurant, housed in the former premises of Gastrologik in Östermalm. The focus is on creating a warm and vibrant environment with French-inspired tasting menus that change with the seasons. All under the leadership of head chef Petter Johansson, who has previously worked at three Michelin-starred restaurants such as Frantzén.

Gaia is a small wine and food bar in charming Midsommarkransen where Nordic flavours combine with influences from around the world. As well as hanging out here over a few small dishes and wine, you can come by for Sunday lunch or a cocktail with Swedish overtones.

Qualitative food at a facile pricing point - that is this charming French bistro's motto. The intimate atmosphere and relaxed ambiance appeals to a wide audience. The menu's classic French-inspired dishes offers continental gustatory delights.

Sthlm Tapas is slightly tucked away on St Eriksplan. Come here for a simple post-work drink or long dinners with friends. But forget everything you think you know about tapas - instead of purely Spanish tapas dishes they serve a menu with culinary influences from all over the world. 

You'll find Nya Carnegiebryggeriet in Hammarby sjöstad, where the Sickla canal flows into Lake Hammarby. A collaboration between Carlsberg Sweden and Brooklyn Brewery, it includes a brewery, restaurant and bar. Drop by after work, have a Friday lunch or American/European dinner, go to beer tastings and, naturally, sample the brewery's own, exciting beers.

Right by the water's edge in Nacka, overlooking the sparkling waters of Lännerstasundet, lies The Old Smokehouse. American barbecue tradition combines with Swedish smoking craftsmanship, resulting in well-composed dishes featuring meat, vegetarian options, fish, and seafood. Grab a seat on the outdoor terrace when the weather permits, or cosy up in the rustic, slightly industrial restaurant space.

At Bar Afterglow, run by star mixologist Josephine Sondlo and Jack Parker, you can enjoy innovative signature drinks in a cosy atmosphere. The idea is for everyone to feel welcome here, from happy post-work drinkers to die-hard cocktail enthusiasts. Pastel pink walls, turquoise tiles, and retro-inspired decor create a playful and slightly enchanted feeling.

Gothenburg-based Hasselsons has made its Stockholm debut with a branch on S:t Eriksgatan 67. In true west coast style, the focus is on fabulous fast food from the sea, with dishes such as moules, fish and chips and fish burgers. Eat on site or get takeaway.

Pastis is minute to say the least, yet hidden among Gamla Stans winding alleyways Pastis is a major powerhouse when it comes to authentic French cuisine. No wonder secretive regulars choose to keep this quaint brasserie to themselves. Rustic homemade dishes are served with an elegant twist. Bon appétit!

This locals' favourite is a classic French bistro serving frogs' legs, escargot and other genuine dishes, not for the faint of heart. Paname (slang for Paris) is a true hidden gem, but don't let that stop you from partaking in the authentic Tricolour-vibes.

Hemma hos Dong, which means “at Dong's house”, is a small hole in the wall spot run by the Dong couple, regarded by many as Stockholm's most authentic Chinese restaurant. The menu offers a mix of different regional Chinese cuisines, with many dishes and flavours you've probably never encountered before. Feel free to ask the kitchen which dishes they recommend, and let them transport you on an exciting taste journey.

Although a popular joint, chances are that you have yet to set your foot here - which is why we mention it. The Spanish-Nordic influences are apparent in both the decor and the menu. The venue is relatively small and fills up rather quickly with hungry diners. The cocktail bar is manned by well-reputed bartenders and is many a locals’ destination of choice.

You may have noticed the rusty brown sign on Dalagatan, peered down into the restaurant and wondered what happens there in the evenings? Främmat serves up creative French food and nice vibes in equal amounts - often a successful recipe for an enjoyable evening out. 

In a glass house built in 1955, which has previously housed both gas stations and restaurants, you'll now find this restaurant with the appropriate name Glashuset. Dishes in various sizes, flavours from all over the world and innovative cocktails are the order of the day here. Gaze out over the peaceful waterside view while sipping a cocktail, eating lunch or socialising over dinner with friends.

Stockholm's first wine and chess bar is in the basement of Laroy Biblioteksgatan. Svarta Hästen is a place for anyone who appreciates both mental stimulation and a pub environment. Novices and more seasoned players alike can take their game to the next level here with the help of a personal chess coach. Or you can just come by to discover the wine list, which includes everything from quirky natural wines to more traditional labels, in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

The area around Nya Djurgårdsvarvet on Djurgården is full of wooden boats and the smells of tar and the sea. Take a walk in beautiful surroundings and stop off at Skroten for a coffee or a homemade meal. They serve both hot and cold dishes with European flavours, and coffee and freshly baked cakes.

If you want to indulge a passion for wine, you can head to the wine bar Capannone Bottega on Roslagsgatan. The owner here has long-standing and personal partnerships with winemakers, so you can be assured of high-quality wine. The atmosphere is cosy and the menu features Italian dishes that change frequently, sometimes daily.

This romantic bistro is charmingly located in an old fire station and boasts vaulted ceilings and boho-chic vibes. The interior is characterised by white tablecloths, tiled floors and mismatched chairs. The kitchen serves modern French classics along with a variety of French wines. Be sure to drop by the adjacent Bar Hommage.

The team behind Ring Katarina also runs popular Racamaca on Mariatorget. They create the kind of restaurants they would choose to go to in their free time: noisy, welcoming, and a mix between hanging out at the bar and sitting down and eating at the table. Ring Katarina gets its name from the address – the corner of Ringvägen/Katarina Bangata – and focuses on creative small dishes and exciting natural wines.

Valentin Checa knows what authentic Latin American food should taste like. He serves dishes made from recipes inspired by his own experiences and childhood memories, in particular of the sea and his grandmother's kitchen in Peru. Choose from ceviche and main courses with meat, fish and vegetarian options and pair with a cocktail created to reflect the flavours of the food. 

A seasonal tasting menu enjoyed at the chef's table in luxurious surroundings is the order of the day at Nana. Head chef and owner Jonas Bokedal aims to give his guests playful and slightly unexpected taste experiences, with ingredients such as truffles, caviar, lobster and wagyu beef.

Bar Libertin, right next to Aspudden underground station, is a well-designed gem with an emphasis on good food and wine. Respect is a keyword here and food and drinks are chosen with sustainability, craftsmanship and small-scale production in mind. It's a good idea to book a table in advance as the dining room is quite small but there are always a few spots reserved for spontaneous drop-in guests.  

At this little confectionary paradise, you can pick and choose caramels in all their flavours and forms, carefully crafted from pure ingredients. Don't miss their seasonal variations, or the homemade soft-serve ice cream in the summer. 

Escape the city crowds and head out to Saltsjöbaden, a short journey by car, boat or light rail. Vår Gård is a place for relaxation, delicious flavours and peace and quiet. There's a hotel, restaurant and function space in a historic building right next to the water, where the Stockholm archipelago begins.

Well-respected chef duo Douglas Fagerman and Ruben Blomdahl's local bistro is a vibrant meeting place in the heart of the city, where everyone is made to feel right at home. The menu is inspired by food cultures from around the world, offering a variety of small and large dishes that can be enjoyed as a classic three-course meal or a lively sharing dinner. Complete your dining experience with a cocktail or a glass of selected wine.

"A tiny little restaurant", is how the owner duo Caisa and Victor describe their seafood bar in Vasastan. In the same premises as Ritorno, Bara Caisas serves fresh seafood and other delicacies from the sea, as well as a carefully chosen selection of wine. Come by for a post-work glass of bubbly and a few oysters, or a warming dinner of fish soup.

Astrids Ängby is a place for the whole family, with a little extra focus on the youngest members. Swedish and French dishes are served in a warm, friendly atmosphere, and the children's menu includes both well-loved favourites such as meatballs with mash and pancakes, and more ambitious options such as fish stew and entrecôte.

This neighbourhood restaurant has never made a big deal about itself - possibly because it hasn't needed to. It's often full of people who want to enjoy their Asian á la carte menu. During the summer months you can eat al fresco and you can reserve the basement all year round for large dinners or parties. The bar mixes up fabulous cocktails that pair perfectly with the food.

They're all about meatballs at this rustic restaurant in the heart of Södermalm. There's often a queue out the door full of both regulars and new guests hungry for this iconic Swedish dish, not surprisingly when they claim to be "the world's best meatballs". Choose between vegetarian and varieties including moose, wild boar and bear. You can also drop by for a post-work cocktail, craft beer or wine in a warm, welcoming environment.

If you're looking for a delicious, out-of-the-ordinary lunch experience, head down to Tokyo Diner where they do all they can to make you feel as if you're in the heart of Tokyo - food-wise at least. All their food is cooked in the open kitchen, so your eyes and nose can enjoy the experience too. Stay and eat in, or order your food to take home with you. The menu includes their popular sushi and sashimi, as well as main courses such as tuna steak, noodle soup and pulled pork.

This charming French wine bar, located just off Karlaplan is synonymous with its red-and-white tablecloths. Enjoy seasonal fare with French overtones along with rich wines from select organic vineyards. Bar à Vins offers both champagne and wine tastings for those who wish to acquaint themselves further.

Marco's pays homage to classic Italian home cooking with ambitious dishes, abundance of wine and relaxed ambiance. The bistro-style decor features impressive arched windows, rustic furniture and whitewashed walls. Perfect for the whole family, Marco's also has a special kiddies menu.

La Vecchia Signora, which translates to the old lady, exudes authentic charm. Exquisite Italian food influenced by the Piedmont region is served along with complimenting wine. Candlelight enhances the intimate ambiance.

This award-winning cocktail bar on Stortorget in the Old Town is famous for their superior cocktail skills and unique old-school apothecary atmosphere, but the place is still something of a well-kept secret. Drop by for a cocktail and a bite to eat and find out what makes Pharmarium so special.