I’ve found some truly amazing spots in London where the flavours of the North really shine. Each one has claimed the Nordic Cuisine accolade, and they’ve definitely earned a place on my list. The dishes are authentic and full of character, and every visit feels like a little taste of Scandinavia right here in the city. You’ll want to try them too!
Blåbär in Putney is the kind of place you wander into for a quick coffee and end up staying for hours. The calm, minimalist space has that unmistakable Nordic charm — simple, bright, and effortlessly cozy, like a Pinterest board titled ‘Scandi Comfort.’ But let’s talk about the food because that’s where Blåbär really shines. Their open rye sandwiches are packed with fresh smoked salmon, crisp pickles, and a hint of dill — light, satisfying, and just the right kind of indulgent. And those cinnamon buns are absolutely irresistible. I went in thinking I’d have one, but let’s just say I left with more. The coffee is strong and smooth, but if you’re in the mood for something refreshing, their elderflower fizz is a winner. And here’s the best part — you can browse their beautifully curated Scandinavian homeware while you eat. I came for lunch and somehow left with a new mug and a throw blanket I didn’t know I needed.
Average bill: £15-20 per person
Scandinavian Kitchen on Great Titchfield Street is small, cozy, and smells like home (if your home is stocked with pickled herring and salty licorice). I dove straight into their smörgåsbord — open sandwiches layered with gravadlax, creamy dill sauce, and beetroot that’ll make you rethink your whole lunch game. Bonus points for the downstairs deli where I found cloudberry jam and other Nordic treats I didn’t know I needed. If you’re craving a slice of the North with a side of cozy, this is your spot.
Average bill: £15 per person
Ekstedt at The Yard in Westminster brings serious fire — literally. Chef Niklas Ekstedt cooks everything over open flames, creating dishes that are both primal and refined. I had juniper-smoked turbot that practically melted on my tongue and ember-baked celeriac that redefined what I thought vegetables could be. The rustic-chic décor is equal parts cabin-in-the-woods and sleek London sophistication. It’s the kind of place where you sip your wine slowly, savor every bite, and wonder if you’ve stumbled into Valhalla.
Average bill: £80 per person
Bageriet is a tiny Swedish bakery in Covent Garden that’s big on charm and even bigger on flavour. It’s the kind of place you stumble into and suddenly wonder how you ever lived without it. The princess cake — a light sponge layered with jam, custard, and whipped cream, all wrapped in marzipan — is a slice of fairy tale goodness. And don’t get me started on the cinnamon buns — gooey, spicy, and just the right amount of sweet. The shop itself is snug and smells like heaven, making it the perfect pit stop during a busy day in the city.
Average bill: £8 per person
Sticks’n’Sushi in Soho is where Japanese precision meets Danish design, and the result is downright delightful. The menu is a quirky mix of sushi and yakitori (grilled skewers), and while it might sound odd, it totally works. I couldn’t get enough of the miso-marinated black cod and the crispy chicken sticks with chili dip. The interior is sleek and stylish, with that understated Scandinavian coolness that makes you feel effortlessly trendy just by being there. It’s perfect for when you can’t decide between sushi and something heartier — because here, you can have both.
Average bill: £50 per person
Fabrique Bakery is a little slice of Stockholm tucked away in Covent Garden. Known for their legendary cinnamon and cardamom buns, this artisanal bakery is all about simple, high-quality ingredients and traditional baking methods. The smell alone is enough to draw you in, but one bite of their perfectly spiced, buttery pastries will have you hooked for life. The rustic, minimalistic interior makes it a cozy spot to enjoy a coffee and a sweet treat, whether you're catching up with friends or just taking a quiet moment for yourself. It’s a carb lover’s dream come true.
Average bill: £7 per person
SKÅL Nordic Dining knows exactly what it’s doing — serving up classic Scandinavian flavours with a modern, polished touch. The space is sleek but welcoming, with warm wooden tones and just the right amount of hygge. Every dish feels like it’s been carefully thought out, from expertly cured gravlax with its punchy mustard-dill sauce to tender reindeer fillet that’s rich and flavourful without being heavy. Their pan-seared cod is another standout — crisp on the outside, buttery soft on the inside, and served with dill potatoes that are way more exciting than they sound. And don’t leave without trying cloudberry cheesecake — it’s creamy, tangy, and the perfect way to wrap things up. Their aquavit selection is solid, and the Nordic-inspired cocktails are a fun touch.
Average bill: £40-50 per person
