Lilla Gästabud Stockholm, Sweden: Best Swedish Meatballs in Gamla Stan
During my time in Sweden, one thing was non-negotiable, I had to try proper Swedish meatballs. Not just any meatballs, but the kind that locals rave about the ones that supposedly redefine what meatballs can be. While scrolling through Instagram and TikTok for food recommendations in Stockholm, Lilla Gästabud kept popping up repeatedly. It wasn’t just one video or post either, it felt like the algorithm itself was nudging me in that direction.
Of course, I don’t rely on social media hype alone, so the next step was checking Google reviews. With an impressive 4.9-star rating, the reviews were overwhelmingly positive, filled with glowing descriptions of cosy interiors, warm service, and, most importantly, unforgettable food. That combination was enough to convince me. I immediately added Lilla Gästabud to my must-visit list, determined to see for myself whether it lived up to its reputation.
Background About Lilla Gästabud
Lilla Gästabud is located in Gamla stan, Stockholm’s Old Town, an area that feels like stepping into a fairytale. Cobbled streets, colourful medieval buildings, and a rich sense of history make this part of the city incredibly atmospheric. Tucked away on Lilla Nygatan 16, the restaurant fits seamlessly into its surroundings.
Lilla Gästabud is a small, family-run restaurant specialising in traditional Swedish food and drinks. It’s also the sister restaurant to Stockholms Gästabud, another well-loved spot for classic Swedish cuisine. Unlike many popular restaurants, Lilla Gästabud doesn’t take reservations, it’s strictly walk-ins only.
What Is Lilla Gästabud Known For?
Lilla Gästabud is best known for its traditional Swedish dishes, with an emphasis on comfort food done exceptionally well. This is not a place for modern twists or experimental plating, instead, it focuses on classic flavours, honest cooking, and high-quality ingredients.
Their Swedish meatballs are the standout dish and the main reason many people according to Google, myself included, seek out this restaurant. However, the menu also features other traditional offerings such as hearty soups, fish dishes, and classic accompaniments that reflect Swedish culinary heritage.
What Is the Experience Like at Lilla Gästabud?
We visited Lilla Gästabud in December, just before Christmas, which added an extra layer of charm to the experience. Stockholm in winter is undeniably cold, temperatures were around -3 degrees that day so finding somewhere warm and cosy was especially important.
We arrived right as the restaurant opened at 12 pm, with no reservation, fully prepared to wait or be turned away. Luckily, we managed to get a table almost immediately. Arriving early definitely helped, especially given how small the space is.
Stepping inside felt like a welcome escape from the freezing cold. The interior was cosy, intimate, and incredibly homey, exactly what you want on a winter day. The lighting was warm, the seating close-knit, and the overall atmosphere made you want to slow down and enjoy your meal rather than rush through it.
The service was another highlight. The staff were friendly, welcoming, and attentive without being overbearing. There was a genuine warmth to the way we were treated, which made the experience feel personal rather than transactional.
What Is the Food Like at Lilla Gästabud?
Since I was in Sweden, I was on a mission to try their meatballs and see how “gourmet” meatballs could really be. Spoiler alert, I was not disappointed.
Gästabuds köttbullar (245 SEK / £19)
This is the dish Lilla Gästabud is famous for, and now I completely understand why. The plate arrives beautifully balanced, Swedish meatballs made from beef, served with creamy mashed potatoes, rich cream sauce, lingonberries, and pickled cucumber.
From the very first bite, the meatballs were amazing. They were incredibly soft, light, and tender, practically melting in the mouth. The flavour was deep and comforting without being heavy, enhanced perfectly by the silky cream sauce.
The mashed potatoes were just as impressive, smooth, creamy, and full of flavour, almost mirroring the richness of the sauce itself. When eaten together, meatballs, mash, sauce, lingonberries, and pickled cucumber, everything worked in perfect harmony. The sweetness of the lingonberries cut through the richness, while the pickled cucumber added a refreshing acidity that kept each bite balanced.
I’ve had IKEA meatballs before (as many of us have), and while they’re enjoyable, the difference in quality here was undeniable. IKEA meatballs have a bouncier, slightly chewy texture, whereas these were soft, delicate, and far more refined. It’s like comparing fast food to a home-cooked meal made with care.
This is hands down my favourite spot for meatballs in Stockholm. I would return to Lilla Gästabud just for this dish alone.
Fisk och skaldjurssoppa (230 SEK / £18)
We also ordered the mixed fish and seafood soup, served with aioli and levain bread. This dish was lighter than the meatballs but no less comforting.
The broth was clear, flavourful, and beautifully warming, exactly what you want on a freezing winter day. The seafood was fresh and well-cooked, and the soup felt nourishing rather than heavy.
The levain bread was nicely toasted, with a crisp exterior and soft interior. Dipping it into the soup allowed it to soak up all the flavours, making each bite incredibly satisfying. The aioli added a subtle richness without overpowering the delicate seafood.
This dish complemented the meatballs perfectly, offering something lighter yet equally enjoyable.
What Is the Price Like at Lilla Gästabud?
The dishes at Lilla Gästabud range from 200–300 SEK (£16–£24 GBP) per dish, which is fairly standard for restaurants in Sweden, especially in central Stockholm.
While it might feel slightly pricey compared to some other countries, the quality, portion sizes, and overall experience make it worth the cost. You’re paying for well-prepared traditional food, a cosy atmosphere, and a location right in the heart of Gamla stan.
Final Thoughts
Lilla Gästabud exceeded my expectations in every way. From the warm, inviting atmosphere to the exceptional food and friendly service, it delivered exactly what I was hoping for, an authentic, comforting taste of Swedish cuisine.
If you’re visiting Stockholm and want to experience traditional Swedish food done properly, this restaurant should be high on your list. It’s not flashy or trendy, but that’s precisely what makes it special.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Sweden or someone returning for another taste of Stockholm, Lilla Gästabud is one of those places that truly captures the soul of Swedish comfort food. It’s cosy, honest, and deeply satisfying, the kind of restaurant that makes you feel warm inside, even on the coldest winter day. If you’re searching for unforgettable Swedish meatballs, look no further.
Highlights & Details about Lilla Gästabud
- Location: Gamla stan (Old Town), Lilla Nygatan 16, 111 28 Stockholm, Sweden
- Opening hours: Daily from 12:00–22:00
- Walk-ins only, no reservations
- Accepts card and cash
Why Visit
- Authentic traditional Swedish cuisine
- Famous for Swedish meatballs
- Cosy, homey atmosphere
- Friendly, welcoming service
Food Highlights
- Gästabuds köttbullar: tender meatballs, creamy mash, rich sauce, lingonberries, pickled cucumber
- Fish and seafood soup: light, warming, flavourful broth with toasted levain bread
Price Range
- Average 200–300 SEK (£16–£24 GBP) per dish
- Good value for quality and location
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