Breakfast shops in Stockholm: where you'll eat the best and healthiest

Breakfast shops in Stockholm: where you'll eat the best and healthiest

June 11, 2025

Stockholm is not only an architectural gem and picturesque views, but also a paradise for breakfast and healthy food lovers. The Swedish capital is famous for its rich café culture, where fika (the Swedish tradition of a coffee break) is an essential part of daily life. Local breakfast shops offer much more than coffee and pastries - they are a true culinary experience combining Scandinavian traditions with modern trends. From cozy, historic cafes to modern venues specializing in brunch, Stockholm has an amazing variety of morning culinary options to satisfy even the most discerning foodie.

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Historic gems and iconic breakfast spots

Stockholm boasts a rich history of cafes, and one of the oldest and most famous places is Vete-Katten. This legendary patisserie-cafe has been in continuous operation since 1928 and is a true institution in the Swedish capital. The name of the establishment, which translated means 'Wheat Cat', refers to the old Swedish tradition of naming pastry shops after animals. The interior has retained its historic character with elegant furniture and classic details, making a visit here a trip back in time to old Stockholm.

Vete-Katten is especially famous for its traditional Swedish baked goods, such as the iconic cinnamon buns (kanelbullar), which are prepared according to an original recipe from almost a century ago. The restaurant also offers full breakfasts, including classic Swedish salmon gravlax sandwiches or eggs served in a variety of ways. Prices at this historic place are about average, which in the context of Stockholm realities is good value, especially considering the quality and historical experience.

In a completely different, more modern style, but equally noteworthy is STHLM Brunch Club. This is the place that revolutionized brunch culture in Stockholm, bringing international inspiration to the local culinary scene. Founded by a group of friends who were inspired by brunch culture from all corners of the world, the place quickly became one of the most popular breakfast spots in the city.

STHLM Brunch Club stands out for its unusually extensive menu, which combines classic breakfast items with creative twists. Their specialty is fluffy American pancakes with a variety of toppings, from classic berries to more elaborate combinations with tahini and honey. For healthy food lovers, they prepare açaí bowls and oatmeal with seasonal fruits. The restaurant is also famous for its excellent coffee, which they serve in different variations - from classic espresso to trendy cold brew. Prices here are higher than at Vete-Katten, placing them in the rather expensive category, but the quality and portions fully compensate for this.

It is interesting to note that STHLM Brunch Club introduced the 'bottomless brunch' concept to Stockholm - unlimited prosecco for brunch on weekends, which was new to the local market and contributed to the huge popularity of the place. Because of this popularity, especially on weekends, it is advisable to book a table in advance or be prepared to wait in line.

Comparing the two places - Vete-Katten offers a more traditional Swedish experience in a historic setting, while STHLM Brunch Club is a modern, international approach to breakfast culture. The former attracts lovers of history and tradition, while the latter attracts those seeking innovative flavors and an Instagram-ready culinary experience.

Healthy and plant-based breakfast options

Stockholm is a city at the forefront of healthy eating trends, and one of the pioneers in this area is Pom & Flora. This small chain of cafes, with locations on both Odengatan and Bondegatan, has revolutionized Stockholm's breakfast scene by introducing superfoods-inspired and plant-based alternatives to its menu. Founded by two friends passionate about healthy food, Pom & Flora has quickly gained cult status among residents of the Swedish capital.

Pom & Flora's story began with a small place on Bondegatan in the trendy Södermalm district, where the owners experimented with new flavor combinations, often drawing inspiration from their travels around the world. Today, their flagship dish is 'overnight oats' - oatmeal prepared with a base of plant milk and chia seeds, topped with seasonal fruits, nuts and homemade jam. What sets Pom & Flora apart is its attention to detail - most of the products are locally sourced, and the menu changes according to the season.

Pom & Flora's interior reflects Scandinavian aesthetics - minimalist decor, lots of natural light and potted plants that create a cozy atmosphere. The premises on Odengatan feature original Swedish tiles, which are remnants of a former dairy store that operated there in the 1950s. Prices at Pom & Flora are about average, although you'll have to pay a bit more for some special items.

Another place that has won the hearts of healthy food lovers is Gast Café. This small café located on Rådmansgatan has an interesting history - it was founded by a former chef of one of the star restaurants, who decided to create a place that combines high quality with affordability. The name 'Gast' refers to a Swedish word meaning 'spirit' or 'guest,' which reflects the philosophy of the place - every guest is treated exceptionally here.

Gast Café specializes in breakfasts based on local, organic products. Their sourdough bread, baked daily on site, has become a legend in the area. The menu offers classic items like eggs benedict, as well as more innovative offerings such as toast with avocado and fermented kimchi or chia seed pudding with homemade rhubarb compote. The café is also famous for its excellent coffee, which the owners source from small, ethical roasters from all over Europe.

The interior of Gast Café is small but cozy, with a distinctive breakfast bar where you can watch the baristas at work. Prices here are slightly higher than at Pom & Flora, placing them in the rather expensive category, but the quality of the products fully justifies it.

Comparing the two places - Pom & Flora offers a more extensive menu with more vegan and gluten-free options, while Gast Café opts for a smaller, but perfectly polished menu. Pom & Flora attracts a younger clientele and social media enthusiasts, while Gast Café has a more intimate feel and is prized by locals and coffee connoisseurs. What both places have in common, however, is an uncompromising approach to quality and freshness of ingredients, making them excellent options for those looking for a healthy breakfast in Stockholm.

International inspiration and hidden gems

Stockholm, despite its commitment to local culinary traditions, is also a city open to international influences, of which Greasy Spoon is a prime example. Located in the heart of Södermalm, this British-Australian breakfast house brings a breath of fresh air to Stockholm's culinary scene. Founded by a British expat who longed for a classic English breakfast, it has quickly become a cult spot among both foreign locals and Swedes curious about new flavors.

Greasy Spoon, despite a name suggesting greasy, heavy food (a playful reference to British breakfast bars), offers surprisingly balanced and healthy options. Their 'Full English Breakfast' is a modern interpretation of the classics, with homemade beans, organic eggs and locally made sausages. The place is also famous for its Australian inspirations, such as 'smashed avocado' on sourdough bread and 'corn fritters' with smoked salmon. Interestingly, Greasy Spoon was the first place in Stockholm to introduce 'shakshuka' to its menu - a Middle Eastern dish with eggs cooked in a spicy tomato sauce, which has become a hit with local foodies.

The restaurant's interior combines industrial character with cozy elements - exposed brick, vintage posters and large windows create a unique atmosphere. Prices at Greasy Spoon are mid-range, making it accessible to a wide range of customers. It's worth knowing that the place experiences a real siege on weekends, and queues can stretch along Tjärhovsgatan Street, which in itself has already become a local phenomenon.

At the opposite end of the breakfast spectrum is Café Pascal, a true gem for coffee lovers and Scandinavian minimalism. Located in the Odenplan neighborhood, the café was founded by the Pascal siblings, who decided to create a place that combines excellent coffee with simple but perfectly executed food. The story of Café Pascal is one of passion for the craft - the owners spent years honing their barista and baking skills before opening their own establishment.

Café Pascal is distinguished by its approach to coffee - the beans are carefully selected and roasted in cooperation with local roasters, and each cup is prepared with extreme attention to detail. The breakfast menu is simple but thoughtful - sandwiches on homemade bread with seasonal ingredients, oatmeal with caramelized apples and cinnamon, or soft-boiled eggs with avocado and sprouts. The baked goods are especially noteworthy - their cinnamon rolls (kanelbullar) regularly win local competitions, and the croissants are so fluffy and buttery that they attract customers from all over the city.

The interior of Café Pascal is quintessential Scandinavian design - light wood, minimalist furniture and lots of natural light create a space where you want to spend time. It's interesting to note that most of the furniture was designed and made by local artisans, highlighting the owners' commitment to supporting the local community. Prices at Café Pascal are moderate, which, combined with the quality of the products on offer, makes it one of the best places in terms of value for money in all of Stockholm.

Comparing the two places - Greasy Spoon offers more hearty, internationally-inspired breakfasts in a bustling, energetic atmosphere, while Café Pascal focuses on Scandinavian simplicity, perfection in execution and a quieter experience. Greasy Spoon attracts a cosmopolitan clientele seeking new flavors, while Café Pascal is a favorite of locals who value quality and authenticity.

It's also worth mentioning that both Greasy Spoon and Café Pascal are actively involved in sustainability initiatives - reducing plastic, composting organic waste and working with local suppliers, an increasingly important aspect for conscious consumers in Stockholm. This concern for the environment, combined with the excellent quality of the food, means that these places are not only satisfying hunger, but also contributing to a more sustainable culinary future for the Swedish capital.

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