Nomad – Swedish Food for the Soul
I was in Stockholm for work and wanted to have supper at a place that served traditional Swedish fare. I have to thank Emma at the Radisson Blu Royal Viking Hotel reception for suggesting Nomad.
“What are the prices like?” I asked hesitantly. Anyone familiar with how expensive Sweden is compared to the rest of Europe will understand the question. She reviewed the Nomad online menu and raised her eyebrows.
“Pretty cheap actually,” she gleamed. At 155 Kr (15 Euros) for a main course, that is good value for Stockholm. I was on my way.
It’s fair to say I liked Nomad right away. Located only 10 minutes walk from the main train station, it looks small but cozy. Pieter, the very friendly proprietor, seated me next to a table of young people. Comfy cushion at my back, solid wooden table under my arms, nice menu in my hands. Good start.
My last time in Stockholm, many years ago, I’d had pickled herring and liked it. I had the same for a starter, served on a slate and then went for the hearty meat stew in a steaming pot with baby potatoes for a main, washed down with a nice local ale. I could get used to this kind of cultural immersion, I thought as I drained my grass.
I fell into conversation with the four young backpackers – two Aussies, an American and a Chinese girl. We had a great chat as they oohed and ahhed over their Swedish meatballs. The food, beer and happy conversation about travel to distant lands gave me a warm and happy feeling. I didn’t want to leave the place. It had that very lovely but elusive “homely” feeling.
As I paid the bill, Pieter asked me where I was from? When I told him Ireland, he brightened. “Green, the same colour as my beloved Hammarby Football team. They wear green and white.” He shook his head sadly. “They are not doing well, only tenth in the league now.” Well, I love an underdog and I love finding cozy restaurants.
Up Hammarby and up Nomad.
Category: sweden