Scandinavian Kitchen is my cafe number one in London. So many times I have arranged to meet friends there or just poped by to buy some knäckebröd or to have a cup of coffee with kanelbulle that I already know names of waiters, where they’re from and even can recognize some of their relatives.
It started one cold evening many months ago when I was passing by after a lecture at UCL and decided to check out that Swedish place I heard about. Inside I found a surprisingly cozy place with red walls full of Scandinavian goods and Scandinavian music. They have completely bought me that evening by offering me a free muffin and refilling my coffee after they took it away by mistake. That was the start.
Simple interior is distinctively Danish says interior designer inside me.
They sell variety of books and foods from across Scandinavia but I must admit that the accent is on Danish and Swedish products.
The place where I had my first Julmust – traditional Swedish Christmas drink.
The menu is very small and simple and even more so, Scandinavian.
Their carrot cake is to die for.
Sad days when cinnamon buns are sold out.
Basement floor. Plenty of power sockets, WiFi and calm atmosphere. This post is written there as well as part of my MA diploma submission.
Time was passing, our relationship grew, my loyalty cards were filling with Ö stamps, which lead to a hug on 5th stamp and coffee and 10th. (A friend of mine suggested ditching cards after 5th stamp and start a new one). I’ve bought loads of cinnamon buns, drunk loads of coffee, spoke Swedish, Russian and even some Finnish and developed ongoing hugging relationships.
One day I have discovered porridge with cinnamon sugar, mmmm.
The place is full of Scandinavian humour
And even though they don’t give me free food, don’t sell my favourite Fazer Liqueur Fills and have never heard of Panda Lakka which I crave desperately I am sure this place will be forever a good part of my life in London.