Uppsala, a city known for its prestigious university, historical landmarks, and picturesque streets, is also home to some of the best traditional Swedish cuisine you can find in the country. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover the city, Uppsala offers an array of cozy, welcoming restaurants that serve delicious Swedish classics with a modern twist. From the tender, juicy meatballs and the flavorful gravlax to the hearty Swedish herring and deliciously baked goods, Uppsala’s restaurants offer a true taste of Swedish culinary heritage. Here are my top picks for Uppsala’s most popular traditional Swedish restaurants that you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
1. Pelikan Uppsala: A Swedish Tradition with a Modern Twist
Location: Västgötegatan 9, Uppsala
Price Range: €20-€50 per person
Booking Platform: Bookatable
If you’re seeking an authentic taste of Swedish cuisine with a touch of contemporary style, Pelikan Uppsala offers the perfect balance. Nestled in the heart of Uppsala, this restaurant presents a warm and inviting atmosphere that’s a blend of rustic Swedish charm and modern flair. The interior is beautifully designed with wood-panelled walls, vintage furniture, and soft lighting, all contributing to a cozy, intimate dining experience.
The moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a homely yet sophisticated vibe. Pelikan has perfected the art of combining traditional Swedish dishes with a modern twist. One of their must-try offerings is the Swedish Meatballs (Köttbullar), a dish that’s nothing short of a Swedish icon. These meatballs are made from a perfect blend of seasoned beef and pork, served with creamy mashed potatoes, a generous helping of rich gravy, and tart lingonberries. Each bite is comfort food at its finest, balancing flavors that are deeply nostalgic yet fresh. I personally enjoyed every bite of this dish, and I found myself savoring the combination of the creamy gravy and the slightly tangy lingonberries. The texture of the meatballs was delightful—moist and juicy on the inside, with a light, crisp exterior.
Another dish I highly recommend is the Gravlax (Cured Salmon), served alongside mustard sauce and fresh rye bread. The salmon is delicately cured and packed with flavor, the mustard sauce providing the perfect tangy complement. It’s a traditional Swedish dish that’s incredibly satisfying, especially when paired with a glass of crisp white wine.
What sets Pelikan apart from other restaurants is its commitment to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes with the seasons, ensuring that you’re always enjoying fresh, vibrant flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for fish, meat, or a hearty vegetarian option, Pelikan guarantees an authentic Swedish dining experience.
Traveler Reviews:
Guests frequently rave about the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Pelikan, and the food doesn’t disappoint. Many reviewers highlight the deliciousness of the meatballs and the impeccable service. The restaurant’s location in the city center makes it a convenient stop after exploring Uppsala’s historical sites, and many guests appreciate the cozy, relaxed vibe, perfect for a leisurely meal.
Booking Tip:
Pelikan is popular with both locals and tourists, so I recommend booking ahead, especially during weekends or holidays. You can easily reserve your table through Bookatable, where you can check availability and sometimes snag special offers. This will help ensure that you don’t miss out on enjoying a wonderful Swedish dining experience!
2. Smålandsstenar: A Taste of Southern Sweden in Uppsala
Location: Stora Torget 3, Uppsala
Price Range: €15-€40 per person
Booking Platform: TripAdvisor
For a true taste of the southern Swedish province of Småland, head to Smålandsstenar. This restaurant specializes in traditional dishes from the region, and every dish tells a story of Swedish culinary heritage. The ambiance is rustic yet modern, with wooden tables and a fireplace that creates a cozy atmosphere.
A must-try at Smålandsstenar is their Swedish Herring Platter—a delightful selection of pickled herring served with onions, dill, and a tangy mustard sauce. Another crowd favorite is the Swedish Roast Pork (Fläskstek), served with rich gravy and mashed potatoes. The pork is tender, and the gravy is just the right amount of savory, creating the perfect combination.
What makes Smålandsstenar stand out is the use of locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes to reflect the seasons, which means you’re always getting the freshest dishes.
Traveler Reviews:
The feedback from visitors highlights the cozy, inviting atmosphere of Smålandsstenar, as well as the authentic Swedish dishes. Many recommend trying the herring platter, which they describe as an unforgettable experience for the taste buds. The friendly and attentive service also gets high praise.
Booking Tip: Make sure to book ahead, especially during weekends, as Smålandsstenar is popular among locals and tourists alike. You can book directly through TripAdvisor for convenient reservations and special deals.
3. Olof’s Kök: A Classic Swedish Bistro with a Cozy Vibe
Location: Olofsgatan 7, Uppsala
Price Range: €25-€55 per person
Booking Platform: Resy
Olof’s Kök is the perfect spot for anyone craving classic Swedish bistro-style dishes. Located in the heart of Uppsala, this restaurant offers a welcoming ambiance with its modern décor and warm lighting. The open kitchen allows you to see the chefs at work, creating a real connection to the food preparation process.
Their Swedish Lamb Stew (Lammgryta) is a standout. The tender lamb is simmered in a savory broth with root vegetables and herbs, creating a rich and comforting dish. For those who want to try something truly Swedish, the Sill (Pickled Herring) served with boiled potatoes and hard bread is a perfect choice. The herring is delicate, with just the right amount of brine, and pairs beautifully with a glass of local Swedish cider.
Olof’s Kök also has an impressive wine list, and the knowledgeable staff is more than happy to help pair the perfect wine with your meal.
Traveler Reviews:
Olof’s Kök consistently receives positive reviews for its cozy ambiance, excellent service, and delicious traditional Swedish food. The lamb stew is frequently mentioned as one of the highlights, and many guests praise the restaurant for offering high-quality food in a relaxed, laid-back setting.
Booking Tip: To avoid waiting, especially during dinner hours, I recommend reserving your table through Resy well in advance. The restaurant can get quite busy on weekends.
4. Uppsala’s Traditional Swedish Café: Café Linné
Location: Linnegatan 17, Uppsala
Price Range: €10-€25 per person
Booking Platform: OpenTable
Located near Uppsala’s university district, Café Linné is a popular café offering a delightful selection of Swedish pastries and light meals. This cozy spot is perfect for anyone looking for a quick but delicious meal or just a coffee with a traditional Swedish pastry. The café has a very charming atmosphere, with vintage furniture, soft lighting, and a warm vibe that invites you to linger.
One of the café’s must-tries is the Kanelbulle (Cinnamon Bun), a Swedish classic. It’s soft, buttery, and perfectly spiced, making it the ideal treat with a cup of Swedish coffee. If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, try their Smörgåstårta (Swedish Sandwich Cake), which is a savory, layered cake filled with shrimp, egg, and various spreads – a true Swedish delicacy.
Traveler Reviews:
Guests love Café Linné for its relaxed vibe, perfect for taking a break from sightseeing. Many visitors highlight the quality of the pastries, especially the cinnamon buns. The friendly service and warm atmosphere also receive high marks.
Booking Tip: Café Linné is typically not overly busy, but it’s still a good idea to make a reservation on OpenTable during weekends or holidays to ensure a table.
5. Traditionell Smörgåsbord at Världens Vin: A Swedish Feast
Location: Kungsängsgatan 10, Uppsala
Price Range: €30-€60 per person
Booking Platform: Bookatable
For those looking to indulge in a true Swedish feast, Världens Vin offers an incredible Smörgåsbord—a traditional Swedish buffet that includes a variety of dishes such as cured meats, cheeses, herring, gravlax, and Swedish meatballs. This is a fantastic way to sample many different Swedish delicacies in one sitting.
The restaurant has a warm, intimate atmosphere, with elegant décor that creates the perfect setting for a relaxed and indulgent dining experience. The Swedish Meatballs (Köttbullar) here are a must-try, served with lingonberries and mashed potatoes. Additionally, their Janssons Frestelse (Jansson’s Temptation)—a creamy potato and anchovy casserole—is a classic Swedish dish that shouldn’t be missed.
Traveler Reviews:
Världens Vin receives rave reviews for its outstanding smörgåsbord, where guests can enjoy a wide array of traditional Swedish dishes. The quality of the food and the atmosphere make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Many mention the excellent wine selection that pairs beautifully with the Swedish dishes.
Booking Tip: The smörgåsbord is particularly popular, so booking ahead through Bookatable is a good idea, especially during the holiday season.
Where to Book Your Swedish Culinary Experience
For making reservations at any of these fantastic restaurants in Uppsala, I highly recommend using the following platforms:
- Booking.com – For a full range of accommodations and dining reservations.
- Bookatable – Perfect for booking tables at top restaurants across Sweden.
- OpenTable – Great for café and restaurant reservations, especially during peak times.
By booking in advance, you’ll ensure that you don’t miss out on Uppsala’s culinary delights. Enjoy your Swedish gastronomic adventure!
