The Nordic Nomad

Stockholm, Sweden

Foodie finds: Stockholm’s 5 best spots for Swedish meatballs

The Nordics • Eat & drink • Foodie finds: Stockholm’s 5 best spots for Swedish meatballs

The heart of Swedish comfort food

Few dishes are as closely tied to Sweden’s culinary identity as the humble meatball. In Stockholm, you’ll find them everywhere – from cosy neighbourhood bistros to refined dining rooms – each with its own take on this classic. While the recipe is simple enough, combining seasoned meat with breadcrumbs and cream, the details make all the difference. Some chefs stick to tradition, while others add a modern twist, but one thing’s certain, no visit to Stockholm is complete without sampling a plate. Served with creamy gravy, tart lingonberries and crisp pickled cucumber.

Top photography courtesy of Restaurang Prinsen

What makes Swedish meatballs – ‘köttbullar’ – special?

The term köttbulle (meatball) first appeared in Swedish cookbooks in 1755, notably in Cajsa Warg’s collection. The dish gained popularity in Sweden during the mid-1800s, coinciding with the widespread use of meat grinders and wood-fired stoves in homes. In Sweden, approximately 12,000 tonnes of pre-cooked meatballs are consumed annually. This equates to about 1.2 kilograms per person each year.

A quality meatball boasts a balanced blend of meats, often beef and pork, combined with breadcrumbs soaked in milk, finely chopped onions, and a mix of spices like salt, white pepper and allspice. The mixture should be well-integrated to achieve a tender yet firm texture upon cooking.

Swedish meatballs, or distinguish themselves by their smaller size and the inclusion of spices such as allspice and white pepper. Traditionally, they are served with potatoes or mash, a rich cream sauce, lingonberry jam and pickled cucumber, offering a harmonious blend of savoury, sweet and tangy flavours.

Cream sauce

The cream sauce, or gräddsås, is a staple accompaniment to Swedish meatballs. Made by deglazing the pan with stock, then adding cream and sometimes a touch of soy sauce for depth, it provides a velvety richness that complements the meatballs’ savoury profile.

Lingonberry jam

Lingonberry jam adds a sweet and tart contrast to the dish. The bright, slightly acidic flavour of the lingonberries cuts through the richness of the meatballs and cream sauce, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Pickled cucumber

Thinly sliced pickled cucumbers, known as pressgurka, offer a crisp and refreshing element. Marinated in a solution of vinegar, sugar and salt, they provide a subtle tanginess that balances the dish’s richness.

Photography courtesy of Restaurang Prinsen and Tranan

Tranan

Tranan, established in 1929 at Karlbergsvägen 14, Stockholm, presents a timeless dining experience. The restaurant’s interior features classic design elements and feels warm and inviting – like a neighbourhood Parisian bistro. The menu showcases traditional Swedish dishes, including fried herring with mashed potatoes, which has been a staple since its opening. Notably, Tranan’s renowned meatballs are not listed on the menu but remain a secret among regulars. Request them from the staff and you will be rewarded. The establishment also houses a bar in the basement, which has hosted performances by artists such as Tom Waits and A Tribe Called Quest. Tranan is a little off the beaten visitors’ track but is definitely worth a visit. And when it comes to the meatballs, they are our top choice.

Tranan
Karlbergsvägen 14
Stockholm
Sweden

Photography courtesy of Tranan

Restaurang Prinsen

Prinsen, located at Mäster Samuelsgatan, right in the middle of the city’s business district. has been a culinary landmark since 1897. The restaurant’s interior boasts art-filled walls and classic wood-paneling, reflecting its early 20th-century origins. Over the years, Prinsen has attracted a diverse clientele, including artists, writers and actors, who have regarded it as an extension of their living rooms. The menu features traditional Swedish dishes, with their renowned meatballs served in a cream sauce accompanied by lingonberries, pickled cucumber and potato purée. Prinsen’s enduring charm keeps us coming back again and again!

Restaurang Prinsen
Mäster Samuelsgatan 4
Stockholm
Sweden

Photography courtesy of Restaurang Prinsen

Den Gyldene Freden

Den Gyldene Freden, in Stockholm’s Old Town, has been a cornerstone of Swedish dining since 1722, but is said to have housed wine taverns here since 1485. Its interiors remain largely unchanged, offering a glimpse into 18th-century tavern life. Over the centuries, it has been a favoured meeting place for notable figures such as Carl Michael Bellman and Evert Taube. The Swedish Academy, responsible for selecting Nobel laureates in literature, holds its weekly dinners here. The menu features traditional Swedish dishes, with their renowned meatballs served in a classic style. Den Gyldene Freden’s enduring appeal lies in its authentic atmosphere and commitment to preserving Sweden’s culinary heritage.

Den Gyldene Freden
Österlånggatan 51
Stockholm
Sweden

Photography courtesy of Den Gyldene Freden

Pelikan

Pelikan is located in Stockholm’s Södermalm district and has been serving traditional Swedish cuisine since 1904. The restaurant’s interior features high ceilings and impressive arched windows, creating a spacious and inviting atmosphere in keeping with the neighbourhood’s beer halls of yesteryear. The menu includes classic dishes such as hand-rolled meatballs, herring, veal liver and pork leg with root mash. Pelikan’s appeal lies in its authentic atmosphere, and that certain vibe, so typical of Södermalm.

Pelikan
Blekingegatan 40
Stockholm
Sweden

Photography courtesy of Pelikan

Meatballs for the People

Meatballs for the People, located in Stockholm’s Södermalm district, is Sweden’s first and only meatball-focused restaurant. The establishment features rustic wooden tables, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere. The menu offers a diverse selection of handmade, organic meatballs crafted from high-quality, locally sourced meats, including traditional beef and pork, as well as unique options like moose, reindeer and salmon. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, reflecting a commitment to Swedish culinary traditions. The restaurant also boasts a well-curated bar, offering a selection of beverages to complement the meals. For those interested in recreating the experience at home, Meatballs for the People offers merchandise and take-away options.