When In Sweden, It Would Be Rude Not To Fika!

What Is Fika?

We knew of Swedish fika before we moved, but since living here we now know it is a super regular thing!

It is essentially a break, but it involves coffee (or in my case, tea) and some sort of baked goods. But, in addition to that it is a social activity and creates a moment to relax and reflect.

There are many examples of baked goods that could be eaten at fika but you will often see:

Kanelbulle (cinnamon bun): a true classic often served and found in bakeries and cafes
Kardemummabullar (cardamom Buns): essentially the same as cinnamon buns but flavoured with cardamom
Lussekatter (saffron buns): usually found at Christmas time, these saffron buns look like an s shape
Prinsesstårta (princess cake): this is my favourite and is a mix of vanilla sponge, cream, jam and covered in a thin layer of (usually) light green marzipan
Semla: this is like a sweet bread roll filled with an almond paste and cream, typically eaten on Shrove Tuesday but you will also find it through the early spring months
Kladdkaka: super rich and gooey chocolate cake
Chokladbollar: these are no baked chocolate balls usually made with oats and covered in either coconut or sugar
Hallongrottor: another of my favourites, these are similar to a shortbread biscuit and also referred to as thumbprint cookies with a dip in the middle usually filled with raspberry jam

Our Favourite Fika Spots

This list could be very long! But so far would include:

Mallboden – located in Motala and situated on the Göta Canal. Best known for their Tarte Flambé and waffles, they also sell home made baked goods too.
Pilgården – this is a countryside cafe in Fornåsa, and serves tasty Belgian waffles.
Simons Rosteri and Bageri – located in Linköping, this was a fab find with a range of home made baked goods including cake, biscuits and breads and home roasted coffee. In the summer/warmer months there is an outdoor area also.
Oui Albacken – located in Mjölby and best known for their crepes as well as home baked goods and items from local sellers too. Both indoor and outdoor areas and lots of events held through the year.
Nyfiket – located in Mjölby with everything cooked and baked in their own bakery/kitchen. Always popular and does great bread too!
Gamla Konditoriet – located in Vadstena, I will admit we walked past this place without noticing it for a long time but lots of sweet treats and also grilled sandwiches.
Restaurang 2hundra6 – located in Vadstena, there is a separate roastery for coffee, restaurant for small and larger plates, as well as a cheese shop and antique shop.
Open New Doors – located in Skåninge, we headed there last weekend. They sell out quickly and even in early afternoon we were too late for the grilled sandwiches. Loads of fresh breads, pastries and cakes as well as pick your own items and a farm shop.