Yes, there is shops in London called Totally Swedish. It was founded by Annethe Nathan and Teresia Bergsand in 2005. Initially their intention was to build an online shop only, but when the opportunity to acquire premises in central London, they decided to open a real Swedish Affär. Totally Swedish has since become an important part of the Swedish community in London, and the company has now two shops in London.
Teresia Bergsand who lives in Gothenburg is no longer a partner in Totally Swedish but is always there to help out when needed in PR and Marketing. She and the company are spreading the word about Swedish food, children’s products and handicrafts to London’s various communities in the way that others have so successfully made Sweden number one for design. They are also selling books and magazine, so it’s a great place to explore.
The interest and fascination for Sweden and all things Scandinavia seems to be on a rapid upwards rise. Hectic London is today home to more than 100,000 Swedes and is often called Sweden’s fifth biggest city by the Swedes themselves.
If you are walking from the North end of part of Marylebone High Street, you will discover that the street is home to numerous of Swedish stops, not least the Swedish embassy and the century-old Swedish Church. On your right side, however, you’ll find Skandium, filled with all things Scandinavian, from the most influential furniture designers to salty liquorice.
On nearby Dorset Street you’ll get the smell of cinnamon leading you to a branch of the Nordic Bakery. It has become one of London’s favorite cafés and a great spot for a ‘fika’.
A slightly different range is available at the far east side of Marylebone. –Head to Scandikitchen on Great Titchfield Street for a delicious Scandi lunch, complete with Swedish meatballs and delicious brownie called kladdkaka.
If you want to practice your Swedish, the Swedish pub Harcourt Arms on Crawford Street is the right place.
Heading for Covent Garden, you may have some of the best cinnamon buns or Princess cakes in London at Bageriet, also ideal for a takeaway treat.
In the same area SugarSin includes a whole aisle dedicated to liquorice in all its forms.
Originally founded in New York, Aquavit has recently opened a new all-day bar and restaurant in London, with authentic Swedish food and snaps, including of course aquavit.
If you are looking for a sports bar, head to Kosmopol on Fulham Road, where Fredrik Olsson have been the manager for over 13 years.
Enjoy Scandinavian-inspired food and drinks at Rök Smokehouse.
Swedish classic dishes are served at Stockholm Deli.
Summer With Monika in Hoxton is a great little cafe with a tiny shop section selling Swedish groceries.
Fika in Blåbär in Putney. Lovely place and good food.
When it’s time for a workout you should absolutely go to Swedercise with Friskis & Svettis London.
All essential Swedish products are on sales in the causal small café Hej Coffee hidden in the square.
If you want to meet Swedes go to the Swedish church or Garlic & Shots on Frith Street.
An expert on Swedish hair is Swedish Nadia Jönning and Australian Steven Riashi who own the salon Jønning & Riashi a salon at Goodge Place.
And should you be really homesick, there are not less than 4 IKEAs in London.
Compiled by Tor Kjolberg