Tag Archives: Svenskt Tenn

Things to do in Stockholm

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I was surprised and amazed by Stockholm, a city destination which deserves more attention. As we sat on the Norwegian Airlines flight, (a short 2 hour journey) I wondered why this enchanting city is not more popular… I can only think of two reasons: the climate is not tempting enough and the country is pricey, very.

The design and fashion focus is immediately obvious, buildings are ordered and smart and shops are filled with vibrant prints and cool quirky clothes. Everything is well organised and everyone is well dressed and stylish.

Stockholm is so fashionable you would expect to see the city featured on America’s next top model, as a fashion must see. It certainly feels more current and on trend than Paris, London and even New York… it is new, hip and exciting. With top tips from the Filippa K team, we had access to a privileged bank of knowledge.

There is a lot on offer, and I felt we only scratched the surface. Everything is conveniently close by, but if you are too tired to walk the public transport system is easy to navigate and quick; it is easy to avoid the expense of taxis.

To stay

Scandic Grand Central– this hotel may look like a bland chain from the logo and exterior, but inside it is one of the most magical and unique places I have ever stayed. With quirky details in every corner and a real sense of character, the accommodation will continue to surprise you. Luxurious amenities on site make it the perfect boutiquey venue for a weekend in Stockholm.

To eat

LUX Stockholm– A Michelin starred emporium of spectacularly intricate food, with a strong focus on Swedish ingredients and ideas.
PA & Co– a seriously stylish burger can be found here, the fashionista restaurant choice. Open 5pm onwards daily and always busy.
Nobis Caina – a lovely smart but relaxed Italian eatery in the glorious Nobis Hotel.
Nytorget Urban Deli – a trendy cafe in the heart of hip SoFo, a little overpriced but supercool.
Kafe Esaias – a great new cafe to snack at and people-watch. The Croque Monsieur is insanely good for lunch, or grab a Fika (a traditional Swedish bun) and coffee to go.

To drink

Nobis Gold Bar – beautiful people and even more beautiful drinks, all in sparkling gold surroundings. Opt for a glass of champagne or an expertly mixed cocktail.

To shop

Weekday – a selection of cool clothing at reasonable prices.
Happy Socks – a psychedelic selection of brightly patterned socks!
Mood Stockholm – a seriously stylish shopping centre offering fun places to shop, eat and drink.
Acne – the innovative Swedish designer with gorgeous garments to die for.
Filippa K – the leading Scandinavian fashion brand showcasing brilliant design and genius clothing.

To see

Boat tour of Archipelago – a boat tour is a must in this unique city, in under an hour you can learn a wealth of knowledge about the unique city of Stockholm.
Photographic Museum – the biggest Photography gallery in Europe, always has a good exhibition on. We saw the evocative work of artist Sally Mann.
Moderna Museet – tucked away, this modern museum offers the very best of contemporary art with intriguing shows. Watch out for the fabulous shop… I spent a fortune!

Since returning, my photos have already provoked the attention of several friends who are now considering weekends away in Stockholm. I only hope this interest continues – I urge you to consider this magical city as an option for a weekend away… I cannot think of another European city that has so much on offer and is as stylish and sophisticated.

TMM travelled with Norwegian Airlines and stayed at Scandic Grand Central Hotel.

Thanks to visitstockholm.com follow them on twitter for news and information, @visitswedenuk

Svenskt Tenn, Afternoon Tea, Stockholm

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Svenskt Tenn is more than just a beautiful design shop. Set up in 1924 by Estrid Ericson the shop sells everything from fabric to furniture, trinkets and tassels. The prints, the most famous of which resulted from collaborations with the Austrian designer Josef Frank, are bright and bold, colourful and charming. The products are arranged stylishly in the large shop to create a psychedelic and fun venue. Upstairs this iconic Swedish design house offers the prettiest afternoon tea in the city. You sit in picturesque surroundings and are treated to a tiered stand of delights.

The tea salon is subtle and quaint compared to the vibrancy and energy in the rest of the shop. When we arrived at two on Sunday afternoon, the petite room was full of girls conversing and friends catching up… sophisticated but sensible. Founder Estrid Ericson drank her favourite tea twice a day (two and a half cups in the morning and two and a half cups with lunch) so it seems fitting that a tea salon has opened here in her honour.

It is easy to relax at Svenskt Tenn,  we sat down and our waitress brought fresh apple juice immediately to quench our thirst. It was delicious tea, very refined and light, but different and special tasting too. My date doesn’t normally drink tea and even he admitted to enjoying this variety. The Svenskt Tenn tea was our favourite, a lovely, mellow taste.

Afternoon tea can be a rather dry affair (after sitting around all morning) and usually far too much is offered… endless heavy scones and sticky cakes. Svenskt Tenn provides the opposite: a delicate, dainty and modest selection. Attractive squares of Swedish rye bread were adorned with smoked salmon, cream cheese and marinated fennel, hot-out-the-oven small scones with jam and butter and petit fours. It was all delicious, particularly the homemade scones!

Afternoon tea is priced at 230kr per person (approximately £20). You receive all the food I have mentioned and a pot of tea. Svenskt Tenn designs and prints are available to buy in Libertys, though for the real experience I would recommend looking round the Stockholm store followed by their gorgeous afternoon tea, memorable for taste and design.

Visit the Svenskt Tenn website here for more information.

Thanks to visitstockholm.com follow them on twitter for news and information, @visitswedenuk