Gourmet getaway to the Halles de Östermalms Saluhall

A Mecca for Stockholm's taste buds, a legendary institution since 1888, an essential crossroads of tastes and flavors, an international benchmark for gourmets, the Halles Östermalms Saluhall are emblematic of Swedish gastronomic excellence. This historic covered market in the heart of bustling Östermalmstorg Street is a paradise for foodies and curious people eager to sample the local culinary specialties. Eighteen renowned traders and restaurateurs across the country are hard at work to offer a fine selection of gourmet pleasures. Come to this lair of Stockholm gastronomy for an overview of the best products to try and traditional dishes to taste during your stay!

The perfect place to taste the famous Toast Skagen

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The temple of Swedish flavors since 1888

Spectacular architecture, perfect scenography, authentic design and immaculate, exquisitely arranged stands are part of the recipe for the success of these covered halls. Far from crowded dining rooms, far from the kitchens where a flock of chefs officiate, this culinary landmark with an area of approximately 3,000 m2 houses 18 stalls of particularly renowned food craftsmen: family businesses that have existed for generations, lively of this unwavering passion for their professions for 130 years.

Indeed, the market covered Östermalm founded in 1888. Today protected as cultural heritage, the red brick building is considered one of the finest examples of architecture from the late 19^th century. This monumental jewel is the work of two Swedish architects Isak Gustaf Clason and Kasper Salin.Before being approached for this project, these two outstanding builders travel to northern Germany, Italy and France where they learn to master the latest brick construction techniques and especially the construction of cast iron frames, a type of construction then unknown in Sweden and which will serve as inspiration for the interior structure of the Östermalm covered market. The imposing establishment was built in barely 6 months, a record time for the 500 workers participating in the work. Modern and elegant, these prestigious halls were inaugurated on November 30, 1888 by King Oscar II of Sweden.

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Place of conviviality and exchange

Real place of life and animation of the district, one reaches the interior of the halls by three different entrances. As soon as you walk through the door, the beauty of the place is striking. A journey through time! The magnificent sculptures of the lacquered wood stalls and the vintage design of the shopkeepers' signs transport us to the past.

In perfect harmony with current consumer trends and the need to know the origin of products, short-circuit traders and producers showcase Swedish terroir and local specialties. As for fish, shellfish and seafood, the choice is vast and the quality to meet between the stalls of Lisa Elmqvist (supplier to His Majesty the King), Tysta Mari, Melanders Fisk & Vilt and Nybrœ Smørrebrød. The story of Lisa Elmqvist is particularly fascinating. It all started in the 1920s when this fisherman's daughter sold her delicacies from the sea in a street market before being invited to the Östermalms Saluhall. Today, 90 years later, the fourth generation of the Elmqvist family continues this tradition on the same stall!

Artisan butchers Willy Ohlsson Eftr, M Seger (established 1888), Husmans Deli and B. Andersson Eftr. Fågel & Vilt share with their customers a love for exceptional meats and quality work. Reindeer or elk lovers, you've come to the right place! Further down the aisle, Betsy Sandberg Choklad, a traditional bakery and pastry shop, offers a wide choice of delicacies and specialties such as Princess Tarta, cheese cakes and the unmissable kanelbullar. Since 1950 Lisbeth Janson Frukt & Grönt has been offering a variety of superb seasonal fruits and vegetables on its colorful stall. The remarkably busy stands and the enthusiasm of the staff make you want to taste everything!

Eating on site, a real moment of pleasure!

If this veritable palace of flavors dedicated to the best artisans in the country originally only hosted market stalls, most traders offer on-site catering in a chic and informal bistro atmosphere: Tysta Mari, Seared by Texas Longhorn, Paulas, Nybrœ Smørrebrød, Mesh, Melanders Fisk & Vilt, Lisa Elmqvist Fisk & Skaldjur, Beirut Café and Arla Unika. Tourists and regulars come here to nibble on a starter, there a main course, elsewhere a dessert, according to their desires. Meat or vegetarian, gluten-sensitive and locavore, everyone can find a cover for their pot!

Perfectly reflecting the healthy and authentic culinary atmosphere of Stockholm, Östermalms Saluhall is one of those must-see places to visit during a stay in the capital. If you do not succumb to the many temptations for a gourmet break on site, you will come out of this warm place with a nice overview of the diversity of Swedish gastronomic products!

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