The Hipster’s Guide to Stockholm, Sweden

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The city practically oozes cool. (Photo: Adam Groffman)

By Adam Groffman

As the capital of cool in Scandinavia, the city of Stockholm makes for a great European destination. Not only is it one of the world’s most gay-friendly cities, but it’s also well-known for its nightlife scene and stylish boutiques. From some of the world’s best fashion to trendy restaurants and stores with underground barbershops, Stockholm isn’t just a place to see — it’s a place to be.

Stockholm is a big city — it’s spread out across 14 islands on the coast in the southeast of Sweden by the Stockholm archipelago and the Baltic Sea — but it never really feels like you’re moving far between neighborhoods, because there is such exciting culture in each one. Point is, Stockholm is a city of trendsetters, so here’s your guide to all things cool in one of the coolest cities in Europe.

Where to eat

1. Meatballs for the People. This super-cool restaurant and small bar sells meatballs. Swedish meatballs. You know, the kind you get at IKEA — but way, way better because you are in Sweden. Get here early in the day before they sell out (though you can also buy prepackaged meatballs for takeout). The restaurant prides itself on an assortment of meats — from turkey to reindeer — and best of all, they are all organic. Hipster foodies, you’re welcome.

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No trip to Stockholm is complete without some Swedish meatballs! (Photo: Adam Groffman)

2. Urban Deli. Arguably one of the most hipster restaurants in Södermalm, the central region of Stockholm, this restaurant has a sidewalk café in addition to a trendy bar on the inside. There’s a small grocery store inside, as well, where you can pick up various gourmet foods and takeout meals.

3. Louie Louie. This is a cozy café in the SoFo neighborhood of Södermalm. It’s got a nice bakery in addition to plenty of vegetarian options for breakfast, lunch, and brunch. Expect to see lots of skinny jeans.

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Where to shop

1. Grandpa. This Södermalm institution sells everything from vintage posters and furniture to fashion finds from local Swedish brands such as Uniforms for the Dedicated. But here’s the secret: The store is not about the brands at all. It’s about the specific products there, which are all meticulously selected and curated by the staff to showcase the best of the best.

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Sandqvist backpacks at the Grandpa lifestyle shop in Södermalm. (Photo: Adam Groffman)

2. Beyond Retro. A product of London’s uber-trendy Shoreditch neighborhood, this vintage fashion chain is one of my favorites. With locations across the U.K. and Sweden, this company is all about cutting-edge style — and often at prices more affordable than at other vintage shops.

3. Herr Judit. This store is a boutique fashion and lifestyle shop with a cool collection of carefully curated vintage clothes for men. Check out the shelves and display cases by the cash register for small knick-knacks and other fashion accessories.

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Where to party

1. Berns Hotel. One of Stockholm’s most popular boutique hotels, it’s also the site of some of the city’s best nightlife. Be sure to check the calendar on its website for fashion shows, live music, special events, DJs, and more.

2. Trädgården. Open in the summertime, this mash-up of buildings and outdoor public places is located at the southern end of Södermalm. It’s also under a bridge. Here, you’ll find some of the best DJs, as well as an art gallery, sport spaces, and crowds of Stockholm hipsters. The party never really stops here: It’s open during the daytime as well, hosting special events, festivals, and markets.

Related: Only in Sweden: A Sightseeing Tour in a Vintage Volvo

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The Trädgarden in Södermalm is arguably the best place for parties and special events every summer in Stockholm. (Photo: Adam Groffman)

3. Mälarpaviljongen. Located on three floating docks off the island of Kungsholmen, this is an excellent restaurant and bar with a very friendly international staff. The owners also support charity work at home and abroad, specifically for LGBT individuals. On warm summer days, there’s simply nowhere better to be. The food from the kitchen is excellent and includes many Swedish specialties, but really, it’s the picturesque and friendly environment that you’ll remember long after visiting. Oh, and the rosé wine — so good!

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