The Quest for Stockholm’s Best Pika

For the past three years, my life in Stockholm has been punctuated by one delicious quest: finding the city’s best fika. Fika, the beloved Swedish tradition of enjoying coffee and a sweet treat, is more than just a break: it's a cherished moment of indulgence and connection.

After countless cups of warm drinks and more pastries than I’d care to admit, I’m excited to finally share the top three places that have won my heart: Le Violon Dingue, NK Bakery, and Stora Bageriet.

Le Violon Dingue: The Hidden Gem with the Best Kanelbulle

Le Violon Dingue was always a challenge. I had heard it recommended many times, but with my work ending at 5PM and their limited hours (closing by 4), it made it difficult to visit. At the same time, I’ve found that places that can afford to close early like that tend to be some of the best.

After numerous failed attempts to get there in time, I finally managed to stop by this elusive spot. As soon as I saw their beautiful rows of bulle, I knew that it was worth the wait.

The kanelbulle (cinnamon bun) at Le Violon Dingue is as close as you can get to bulle perfection. Soft, fragrant, and perfectly spiced, it’s the kind of pastry that makes you pause and savor every bite. The balance of cinnamon and sweetness is just right, creating a bun that sets the bar high for all others. It’s no wonder the locals hold it in such high esteem.

NK Bakery: Modern Pastries with a Classy Vibe

Located within the elegant NK department store, NK Bakery offers a fika experience that combines sophistication with innovation. The moment you step in, you’re greeted by sleek, modern décor and a display of pastries that look almost too beautiful to eat. Peer through the large glass windows to see them preparing the pastries and you’ll appreciate that it really is a form of art. 

Stora Bageriet: A Taste of History

Stora Bageriet is where history and tradition meet to create a truly authentic fika experience. As one of Stockholm’s oldest bakeries, it has been serving locals since the 1700s. Walking into Stora Bageriet feels like stepping back in time, with its charming old-world ambiance and time-honored recipes. The local crowd will make you feel like a Stockholmer as you go around the side to get in. 

The pastries at Stora Bageriet are steeped in tradition, each bite offering a glimpse into Stockholm’s rich culinary past. The kardemummabullar (cardamom bun) here is a standout, with its aromatic cardamom flavor and tender, buttery dough. It’s a pastry that transports you to another era, a reminder of the enduring charm of classic Swedish baking.

The Verdict: A Fika for Every Mood

After three years of exploration, these three bakeries have emerged as the pinnacle of fika in Stockholm, each offering something unique. Le Violon Dingue’s kanelbulle is a must-try for any cinnamon bun aficionado.

NK Bakery brings a touch of modern sophistication to traditional pastries, making it the ideal spot for a chic fika break. And Stora Bageriet offers a historical journey through taste, preserving the timeless appeal of Swedish baking.

The quest for the best fika in Stockholm has been a labor of love, filled with countless delightful moments and discoveries. Each café, bakery, and pastry shop has contributed to this journey, offering its own slice of Stockholm’s vibrant fika culture.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these three spots are sure to provide a memorable fika experience, each in their own distinct way. So, grab a sweet treat, and take a moment to savor the simple joys of life – because that’s what fika is all about.