There are not many Nordic restaurants to be found on the London food scene. Some come and go, some are only ‘Nordic inspired’. But the authentic, the real deal… Here are the top 5, from Michelin Star restaurants to pop-up supper clubs.
Texture is all about head chef, Agnar Sverrisson. At the Michelin-starred restaurant in Marylebone (opened in 2007) Sverrisson successfully combines seasonal British ingredients with Icelandic specialities. With accomplished technical skills his dishes look deceptively simple, though they taste anything but. Expect textural contrast and clean, intense flavours.
What we think: Extraordinary food served in stylish surroundings. texture-restaurant.co.uk
Rök Smokehouse and Bar – best for smoked meats, pickled veggies and cocktails
Recently voted by The Time Out as the 56th best restaurant in London this restaurant concept will make you feel like you and your best friend has set up a dining space in the pantry, where you are feasting on all the pickled food whilst sipping utterly delicious cocktails. Sounds strange or too good to be true? Regardless, this is a place to visit for a night with a difference. We recommend the Islington branch for dinner where as the Shoreditch branch is great for a quiet lunch.
What we think? Great value for money and the scallops are to die for. Website: roklondon.co.uk
Snaps and Rye – New Nordic Cuisine in the heart of Notting Hill
A small neighbour hood restaurant in Notting Hill hides arguably the best Nordic restaurant in London; Snaps and Rye. Voted by Time Out London’s Top 50 Best Restaurants for the second time in a row, this clearly underlines what a great restaurant this is. The small team creates a weekly authentic and innovative menu with every dish created in-house. Must have is the house-infused Akvavit in your pre-dinner cocktail.
What we think? Modern Nordic food, without a hefty bill at the end. Website: snapsandrye.com
The Harcourt – a Swedish gastropub in Central London
This traditional pub has been a long time favourite with the Swedish community in London, with its location only a stone throw away from the Swedish Church. And recently the pub has had a much needed refurbish and at the same time, a revamp of the kitchen by strengthening their Scandi profile. The new Finnish chef has introduced a Nordic style menu such as reindeer carpaccio starter, Swedish meatballs and of course, a lot of fresh seafood. For Christmas theres even a traditional Swedish ham on the menu. And they’ve even hired a Swedish mixologist who’s created a fab cocktail menu, perfect for a after work drink.
What we think? Scandi rustic meets Marylebone chic and we love it! Website: theharcourt.com
The Great Nordic Feast – a pop-up restaurant on the shores of Southbank…
Creative chefs from eight Nordic destinations have gathered in London for the festival ‘Nordic Matters’ from 20 – 22nd October. There will be Nordic artisan breakfast in the morning hosted by acclaimed baker Sebastian Boudet from Sweden. Or you can join the Nordic Feast for lunch or dinner, hosted by various of big Nordic names in gastronomy. There’s a bar on the premisses too. Tickets available now.
What we think? We love this unique chance to experience Nordic food. Website: southbankcentre.co.uk
Is there a Nordic restaurant in London that should have been included here? Please let us know by dropping a line below! x