7 of the Best LGBTQ Restaurants & Bars in Stockholm
Stockholm features several prominent LGBTQ-owned or highly popular queer-friendly restaurants and cafes.
But in a city as open as Stockholm, there has never been a need for a designated “gayborhood,” since the entire city is LGBTQ-friendly. Having said that, there are, of course, several gay-owned and operated establishments, while certain restaurants, cafes, and bars are LGBTQ-welcoming or centered, and rainbow flags fly high in many of Stockholm’s central districts.
Mälarpaviljongen
A renowned, gay-owned restaurant and bar on the water, known for its inclusive atmosphere and public and visible support of LGBTQ+ causes—the rainbow flag is proudly flying.
A verdant garden oasis with a restaurant, bar, and alfresco bistro section, located on the pier, waterfront, and a barge at Norr Mälarstrand with a stunning view of the waters of Riddarfjärden. This is the perfect summer getaway: hang out and eat delicious fresh seafood, kick back with an Aperol Spritz, and enjoy an atmospheric and high-spirited vibe with great music. Open during the summer season only—but trust us, with the season being so short and sweet, the Swedes sure know how to make the most of it.
GQ Bakfickan Mälarpaviljongen
This restaurant is a side business of Mälarpaviljonen, a summer classic on the Stockholm scene. It formerly operated under the name Green Queen and was completely vegan. It now also serves vegetarian dishes, including risotto, poached eggs, crushed avocado, and freshly baked bread (available gluten-free). Also, try their Shakshuka – a tomato-based, oven-baked vegetable stew! In the evenings, there’s often music and entertainment in the cocktail bar.
Chokladkoppen
A cozy café in Stortorget (Gamla Stan), known as one of the first openly LGBT-friendly, welcoming spots for fika (coffee and cake break). Chokladkoppen was one of the first openly LGBT-friendly establishments in Stockholm. Exquisite sandwiches and pastries, and in summer, a popular alfresco section.
The Secret Garden
Located in Gamla Stan, the heart of Stockholm, this is a popular, queer-owned restaurant, bar, and club. Have a quiet dinner in their hidden garden, a glass or two of wine with a view, a fun night of dancing, or all of it. They’re open every day from 12 to 03, and their DJs are playing beats Wednesdays through Saturdays from 10 p.m.
NÒR Södermalm
NÒR Södermalm is the restaurant and bar at the Clarion Hotell on Ringvägen. The establishment has long been popular for casual after-work gatherings and drinks, and has hosted the LGBTQ club “Hotellhänget” since 2013. The menu mixes flavors from Sweden and Southern Europe. The drink list is a blend of the bar’s signature creations and classics.
Side Track
While in the neighborhood, Side Track is the most well-known gay bar to visit. It is reliable, good, reasonably priced food and drink, with an intimate, friendly ambience—your classic neighborhood watering hole with themed nights and community events, such as the Stockholm Leather Social. The DJ plays a mix of pop and old hits.
Nytorget Urban Deli
Urban Deli Nytorget is located in the heart of Södermalm’s SoFo. Here you’ll find everything from breakfast and lunch to coffee breaks or after-work drinks. In the deli and shop, you’ll find not only cheese and charcuterie, but also ready-made dinner kits, single-portion meals, and freshly baked bagels. During the summer, a large outdoor seating area opens up. You can also find Urban Deli in Sickla, on Sveavägen, or in Hagastaden.
