Top 10 Fika Cafés, Shops & Spots in Stockholm

Fika - the Swedish word expressing the need to relax and have a break, with some coffee (or tea) and a cake. As someone who is s̶o̶m̶e̶w̶h̶a̶t̶ addicted to coffee and constantly on the go, this was a philosophy I was ready to get on board with when I visited Stockholm. Below, see my picks of 10 cafés, restaurants, and good stalls I felt helped me tap into that idea of “fika”.

5. K25

An affordable (for Sweden) food hall/ food court in Norrmalm, K25 offers all travellers a variety of foods that can suit most dietary restrictions.There are lots of options for seating, as well - perfect for when you want to spend time eating with friends. I highly recommend Jim Lim!

6. Kaffekoppen

This was the first café Joel and I popped into when we arrived in Gamla Stan. We had just taken the train from Copenhagen, and we were starved and in need of coffee! Kaffekoppen was our first introduction to “Fika”, and we enjoyed the atmosphere of the café, which was housed in a former 17th century cellar vault. The café was right next to our hotel, and also very close to many attractions as it was located right in the heart of the Old Town.

7. Snickarbacken 7

Part coffee shop, part health food store, part gallery, this unique place really packs a punch in terms of offerings for visitors. If you want to pick up a unique souvenir while sipping on either fresh-pressed juices or coffee, Snickarbacken 7 is the place for you to Fika to your hearts content!

1. DROP COFFEEHOUSE

Oh, Drop Coffeehouse. I saw you had gluten free offerings in the window, and I also saw a phenomenal carrot cake. I assumed the carrot cake had gluten. Boy, was I happy when I found out I was wrong. Your coffee is fantastic, and your treats are even better. I am relaxed. I am happy. Fika has been achieved.

2. Johan & Nyström (Swedenborgsgatan)

What can I say about Johan & Nyström except proclaim my love for its hip & trendy vibe mixed with expertly made cups of coffee. With friendly staff who like a chat, this café was a perfect choice in which to chill out.

3. VETEKATTEN

Although this café looks very posh and high-end, it did in fact have a very relaxed atmosphere - perfect for that “Fika” feel. I was interested to visit as I had read they offered some gluten free treats. Although three of the waitresses spoke no English, they were incredibly kind, patient, and helpful and I eventually ended up with a treat I could eat.

4. Stampen (jazz bar)

Jazz music with a beer or wine in hand in a dimly-lit bar in Stockholm… although I am not entirely sure if this constitues “Fika”, I certainly considered it a break with drink with f̶o̶o̶d̶ ̶a̶n̶d̶ friends when I went! There are some nibbles to munch on with your drinks, but the music and the atmosphere is really what draws you in!

The Jim Lim stall at K25 - delicious and well-priced (for Stockholm)

8. Stockholm Wine Bar

Does wine factor in to “Fika”? Although I am unsure, I certainly felt like I was taking a break to relax for myself when I popped into Stockholm Wine Bar and had a blast sampling many wine offerings on the list. Although pricey, the venue and the service was excellent, and it made for a very enjoyable (and major “adulting”) night out.

9. Bageri Skeppsbro

Although I was unable to eat anything here, Joel gave me it’s seal of approval. He was happy, we took a break together to sit and (watch him) eat a Swedish baked good, so I’d consider that a definite “Fika” moment in my books!

10. Café Pascal

Café Pascal is a fabulous café in which to grab some coffee and a healthy lunch with friends. Vegans and vegetarians will enjoy how many options they have!

Enjoy some photo spam below of various cafés:

Stockholm is chock full of places offering that “Fika” experience. However, remember: it is a state of mind, so even if you’re unable to be in Sweden right now, taking the time out for yourself to have a nice coffee or tea and a cake, or going out with your friends or colleagues for some beverages is an easy way to sprinkle it into your life!