Falstaff presents the five best places for lunch, offering everything from street food and à la carte restaurants to fine dining.
Gothenburg, Sweden's second-largest city, graces the picturesque west coast. Renowned for its diverse array of fresh fish and seafood sourced from the bountiful North Sea and the stunning Nordic coastlines, Gothenburg boasts a vibrant culinary scene. Each weekday, the city hosts the nation's largest fish and seafood auction within the expansive confines of a harbor hangar, showcasing the bustling maritime industry.
Beyond its culinary delights, Gothenburg captivates visitors with attractions such as the renowned Liseberg amusement park, which promises thrilling adventures for all ages. The cobbled streets of the old town, steeped in history and charm, offer a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage. Art enthusiasts flock to Gothenburg museum of Art, home to an impressive collection spanning various periods and styles.
Furthermore, Gothenburg's scenic archipelago beckons nature lovers and adventurers alike, providing a tranquil escape from the urban bustle. Whether you're exploring the city's vibrant shopping districts or embarking on a sightseeing adventure, here are the five best places for lunch right now, offering everything from street food to à la carte and casual fine dining.
Nestled within the lively market hall, Bar Bulot has swiftly cemented its status as a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike. Anchoring the establishment are chefs Gabriel Melim Andersson and Emil Bjelke, whose culinary expertise has been honed over years of collaboration, including at the esteemed former one-star restaurant, Upper House.
In anticipation of renovations for their upcoming venture, the duo seized the opportunity to take the reins of a petite space within the bustling market hall. With a modest seating capacity of just 20, Bar Bulot offers an intimate dining experience unlike any other.
At the heart of Bar Bulot's appeal is its vibrant menu, elevated with a touch of refinement and featuring an array of premium-quality ingredients. While the menu evolves with the changing seasons, patrons can always anticipate the presence of signature dishes such as the spicy beef tartare served with a crispy waffle and soured cream, complemented by sourdough bread accompanied by homemade kefir butter.
Human stands out as the sole restaurant in Gothenburg offering tasting menus for both lunch and dinner. Chef-owner Martin Moses, crowned Chef of the Year in 2019, heads the culinary team with aplomb. The restaurant has also been bestowed with the prestigious Business Restaurant of the Year accolade by the finance magazine Dagens Industri.
At Human, Martin Moses extends a warm invitation to guests for a casual fine dining experience centred around modern Nordic cuisine. The dishes, curated with care, are a delightful fusion of flavours, showcasing meticulously sourced ingredients from the surrounding area. Notable highlights from the menu include for example langoustine with carrot and aromatic herbs, and halibut with caviar, kohlrabi, and oyster kefir.
The restaurant features a serene and welcoming interior design that complements its exclusive atmosphere. While renowned for its high-quality cuisine, it remains committed to providing affordable prices, making exceptional dining accessible to all without compromising on quality or integrity.
Situated in a relaxed and informal setting, Restaurant Fiskbar 17 is the ideal spot to indulge in fresh fish and seafood delicacies. The enterprising chef trio comprising David Haggren, Joel Sjöholm and Antonio Rossiello established this eatery as a heartfelt tribute to Gothenburg's rich maritime history, aspiring to bring the essence of the sea to the city streets. Each day, fresh catches from the harbor auction ensure that only the finest quality and freshest seafood graces the tables.
For lunch, patrons are treated to a selection of three delectable options: fish soup served with sourdough bread and aioli, a quintessential shrimp sandwich, and a daily special crafted based on availability. Lunch service concludes at 2:30 PM, followed by dinner service commencing at 5:00 PM and extending into the late hours.
Jinx Dynasty embodies a delightful blend of fun, creativity and culinary excellence. Conceived by three esteemed chefs – John Westfeldt, Claes Andersson and Jonatan Björnlund – the concept was born out of their desire to bring their culinary expertise to the streets of Gothenburg. What started as a humble food truck venture in the city center soon evolved into something more.
Initially offering just two types of baos and a thaicos, the menu quickly captured the hearts and palates of locals and visitors alike. As word of mouth spread and demand grew, the trio seized an opportunity to expand. They were granted a small space in a nearby courtyard, thus giving rise to Jinx Dynasty's brick-and-mortar establishment.
Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of Asian flavors, the chefs curate a menu that entices the taste buds. Each dish is a blend of taste and texture, expertly crafted to deliver a satisfying culinary experience with just the right amount of spice.
For lunch, guests can choose from two tempting rice bowl options. As the clock strikes 3:00 PM on weekdays and throughout the weekend and during summer, the restaurant unveils its full menu, featuring offerings such as baos, kimchi fries, dumplings, dan dan noodles and sandwiches. And for those seeking plant-based delights, vegetarian options abound, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Just a short jaunt outside the bustling city centre, nestled amidst the picturesque charm of Mariaplan, lies Luckans Fisk, a delightful delicatessen offering an array of fish and shellfish sourced directly from the Gothenburg Fish Auction each morning. Helmed by Martina Järlbring and Ida Landström, Luckans Fisk presents a single lunch option daily, always freshly prepared and bursting with flavour.
Step inside and treat yourself to an assortment of treasures from the fish counter – perhaps a handful of succulent shrimp, a variety of oysters, or a classic shrimp sandwich. Feeling a bit more adventurous? Opt for a platter of mixed seafood and enjoy the briny flavors of the Swedish west coast.
Whether you decide to dine in, bask in the outdoor seating area, or choose the convenience of takeaway, you can savour your meal amidst the serene backdrop of the nearby verdant park. Luckans Fisk is only open during daytime, during business hours.
