In this university city north of Stockholm, a quiet culinary confidence is taking root. From Nordic contemporary, vaulted wine cellars to Italian trattorias, here’s where to eat now.
There’s a certain seriousness to Uppsala that suits its status as Sweden’s oldest university town. The spires of its Gothic cathedral cast long shadows over cobblestone streets, and the student tradition runs deep in the city only 35 minutes by train from Stockholm. Fine dining here once felt similarly solemn, earnest, perhaps, but rarely thrilling, but that’s all changed. These days you’ll find a dining scene that balances Swedish traditions with genuine innovation and ambition. The academic crowds, including a substantial global contingent, are now joined by a more discerning set that want to explore hip locales, new concepts and natural wines.
Duo
On Sysslomansgatan, newish-on-the-scene Duo has quickly become the neighbourhood spot every local wishes they lived closer to and a foodie favourite. The concept is refreshingly simple: two young chefs (the founders), a tight menu, a large chic space, and an emphasis on doing a few things exceptionally well.
The kitchen turns out refined, seasonal cooking with a Scandinavian accent: think perfectly seared catch of the day with browned butter and hazelnuts, or refined wild elk (one of the best dishes I’ve tasted in Sweden) that arrives impossibly tender. Extra attention is paid to to the combination of textures in each dish. Even the table bread (made with syrup and beer) is divine. The wine list leans natural, interesting and the well crafted cocktails have become locally famous. Servers here are passionate, and actually want to talk about what’s on your plate and in your glass. The large space itself is warm and understated, all exposed brick and soft lighting – where you might start with a single glass and stay for three courses. But book ahead; word has spread.
Dryck & Mat
With a name that translates literally and unglamourously to “Drink and Food,” this stylish spot near the concert hall has been leading the way in Uppsala for years. The wine doesn’t just accompany the meal, here it can dictate it. The menu changes often and is built entirely around a carefully curated selection of bottles from small European producers.
One night it might be langoustines with melon and dill paired with a German Resling; another, Iberian pork with cherries and red wine sauce. The staff tell stories about every pour, and the kitchen responds to what’s in the cellar with genuine creativity. It’s a holistic experience, and one that’s earned Dryck & Mat a devoted following among Uppsala’s well heeled foodies.
Hambergs
Since 1982, Hambergs has been Uppsala’s definitive answer for delectable seafood – a classic restaurant and must visit. Residing beside the Fyris River at Fyristorg, right in the heart of town, this intimate spot recently went through a refreshing renovation that has also (thankfully) doubled capacity.
The menu follows the seasons, but you’ll always find impeccably sourced oysters, gravad lax they’ve cured themselves, and gorgeous delicacies just came in from the coast. There’s even a popular deli within the space where locals buy up fine fish cuts, self-made terrines, an impressive cheese collection and pies. What makes Hambergs special isn’t just this hybrid format, its where you’ll enjoy an unforgettable Scandinavian seafood experience that is as fresh as it is unforgettable. If feeling indulgent, we highly recommend the tiered seafood platter with champagne.
Villa Anna
Just steps from Uppsala’s famous cathedral, and housed in a stately 19th-century building that operates as a high end boutique hotel of the same name, the Villa Anna restaurant offers fine dining as occasion. The restaurant, perhaps the most formal of our options, is all high ceilings and period details with a vaulted wine cellar downstairs rumoured to hold one of the city’s most thoughtful collections.
The kitchen serves hearty, traditional Swedish cuisine with a modern sensibility, leaning heavily on local and organic producers. For visitors wanting to be wowed, the tasting menu is the way to go: five or seven courses that trace the seasons through Nordic ingredients, each plate composed with real artistry.
Basta
When Urban Italian Group brought contemporary Italian restaurant Basta to Gamla Torget in late 2024, they gave Uppsala something it didn’t know it was missing: a trattoria with culinary credentials, a gregarious attitude and fun, maximalist interiors. The space, spanning nearly 400 square metres across two levels, seats 140 without ever feeling like a canteen. Design is a lesson in cheerful, colourful, contemporary maximalism – glowing lights and eclectic art.
Try out wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, pasta made fresh daily, and antipasti that actually taste of Italy. The location, right on the old square, means you can watch student life drift past while tucking into a plate of burrata and excellent cured meats. It’s relaxed, welcoming, young and exactly what this corner of the city needed.
Brezza
Uppsala has no shortage of Italian fare and pizza, but what Brezza offers is something closer to the real thing in Italy. This local neighbourhood spot is a short walk from the centre and focuses on the Neapolitan style, puffy, leopard-spotted cornicione, San Marzano tomatoes, and mozzarella that actually stretches.
The menu is tight by design: a dozen or so pizzas, a handful of pasta dishes, great meat dishes (the slow-roast lamb being one of our favourites) and a selection of starters built around quality ingredients. Finish strong with the to-die-for tiramisu; a signature for good reason. Brezza is popular with locals, which means the room hums with energy most nights. The long wine list leans Italian and service is done with a smile.
