Surviving Stockholm’s winter 

A guide to the best cafés and comfort reads 

We are all familiar with the state in which Sweden enters each fall. The sun disappears earlier each day, and by December it feels like it never even shows up. During the darker months of the year, which occupies almost half of it for us Swedes, it can be difficult to keep up with nurturing yourself and if you’re not completely consumed by seasonal depression, then at least hit by it.

While I find myself often complaining this time of the year I do my best to keep myself busy. I patiently wait for the first spring day to arrive, but in the meantime I do everything I can to stay sane. Sometimes I try to prolong the summer by late evenings out, or going by bike everywhere instead of reverting to taking the bus. However, as the cold approaches I turn to one of my favorite activities, if it can be considered as such, which is to wind down at a cozy cafe with a good read. One of the perks of being brought up in Stockholm is the time I have had to explore hidden gems around the city. Sometimes it can be hard to find cafés that are not overly crowded, have reasonable prices, while also having a desired atmosphere. While a part of me would like to gatekeep these, they are too good to be kept hidden because they check all the criterias. So here are my top three cafés around Stockholm: 

Granero bakery - 📍Tengelinsgatan 14

One of my most recent found spots is a bakery located in Hjorthagen. I was about to take my two dogs to their regular grooming place, and decided to take a stroll in the neighbourhood. I googled cafés nearby and this one caught my eye. Granero is inside an old industrial building with brick walls and tall windows. Not only was this place beautiful, it also had great fika. I ordered a brewed coffee, cinnamonbun X blueberry pie (amazing combo), and a chia pudding. I sat down for a few hours, alternating between studying and reading my book, Just Kids. All in all, a great visit. 

Delantina - 📍Erik Dahlbergsgatan 41

Delantina, or “Delantinan” as me and my friends sometimes refer to it, is a tiny place at the corner of a building just near my apartment. I live only a few houses down which makes it my perfect local coffeeshop and also a great hub for me and my friends to go to when craving a coffee or bagel accompanied by some great conversations. While the place might not look much to the world, with its orange sunshades and minimalistic decor, it gives a warm and welcoming feeling, especially since it’s family owned and the man working there always greets you with a smile. During warmer seasons they have outdoor seating which is always facing the sun, and during the winter you can cozy up in their window seats and do some people watching. 

Sospeso - 📍Värtavägen 31

This place is also a closeby favorite. It is a small nook with inspiration from Italy, perfect for stopping by on a walk out to Gärdet and Djurgården. With its few spots it creates a very intimate, cozy feeling, and the italian touch makes it really authentic. I have only been there once or twice but had lovely visits and sat at their outdoor space. 

All of these places are, in my opinion at least, perfect spots for getting away from the city stress, while still being (almost) in the center of Stockholm. While sipping on coffee and eating a mandatory cinnamon bun, I always have a book at hand. My favorites lately have been Munkey Diaries by Jane Birkin, and my current read - Just kids, as I mentioned before. Both books are autobiographical, beautifully written, and perfect for keeping you company during Stockholm's long, dark winter.