Backen Ölcafé, Ostergotland Travel Guide

4.7 (645)

Cozy Linköping beer café pouring rotating craft taps and loaded smörrebröd in a homey haven with quiz nights and courtyard events.

Backen Ölcafé is a cozy beer café in central Linköping, celebrated for its carefully selected craft beers on tap and bottle, alongside hearty Scandinavian smörrebröd open sandwiches. Nestled on Storgatan, it offers a relaxed, homey atmosphere with emphasis on local, organic, lactose- and gluten-free options. Seven taps rotate frequently, featuring house Kölsch, while the menu highlights creative toppings like vegan cheese and texmex fillings. Open late on weekends, it's perfect for unwinding with snaps and pub fare in a welcoming spot.

A brief summary to Backen Ölcafé

Storgatan 54, Linköping, 582 28, SE
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Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Tuesday 3 pm-10 pm
Wednesday 3 pm-10 pm
Thursday 3 pm-10 pm
Friday 2 pm-11 pm
Saturday 12 pm-11 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Backen Ölcafé.

Opt for two smörrebröd per person if hungry; one suffices for lighter appetites amid the hearty toppings.
Check the 'Öl På Fat' board for the latest tap rotations, with house Kölsch always available.
Book 'Krypinnet' for groups up to 30, ideal for quizzes, tastings, or private gatherings.
Takeaway smörrebröd is offered, perfect for gluten- or lactose-free meals on the go.

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Explore Backen Ölcafé on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Backen Ölcafé, mapped for you.

Getting There

Bus

Bus 11 or 12 from Linköping Centralstation to Storgatan stop, 5-8 minutes, frequent service every 10-15 minutes daytime, single ticket 30-40 SEK.
Walking

From Linköping Cathedral, 10-12 minute walk along Storgatan, flat urban pavement fully accessible, no steep inclines.
Cycling

Bike from city hall via Storgatan bike lane, 3-5 minutes, free city bikes available nearby with racks on-site, watch for pedestrian traffic.
Taxi

Taxi from train station, 4-6 minutes depending on traffic, limited parking nearby, fares 100-150 SEK.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Restrooms
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Discover more about Backen Ölcafé

Craft Beer Haven in Linköping

Backen Ölcafé occupies a charming spot on Storgatan in the heart of Linköping, serving as a dedicated hub for beer enthusiasts. With seven taps dedicated to rotating selections, the café ensures a dynamic lineup of brews, always including their signature house Kölsch. This independent venue prides itself on freedom from supplier constraints, allowing curators to handpick exceptional beers that vary frequently to keep offerings fresh and exciting. Bottled rarities complement the taps, creating a comprehensive palette for exploration.

Signature Smörrebröd Traditions

Central to the menu are smörrebröd, the iconic Danish open-faced sandwiches reimagined with Swedish flair. These rye-based delights support inventive toppings, from pickled red onion with vegan cheese to texmex-spiced vegan mince blended with beluga lentils, corn, tomato, jalapeño, and plant-based mozzarella. Served with fresh salad and garlic dressing, options like smördegspaj emphasize quality ingredients. The café prioritizes lactose- and gluten-free products extensively, alongside locally sourced and organic elements, with takeaway available for convenience.

Cozy Spaces and Festive Extensions

The main café exudes a hospitable, easy-going vibe, ideal for lingering over drinks. Beyond the primary room, 'Krypinnet' awaits via a vaulted passage to Apotekaregatan 10, housing an inner courtyard outdoor seating area and versatile event space. This festvåning accommodates up to 30 guests for private parties, corporate conferences, tastings, or dinners, with future plans for on-site brewing to enhance events.

Weekly Rhythm and Special Happenings

Backen's schedule pulses with energy: closed Sundays and Mondays, it opens at 3pm Tuesday through Thursday until 10pm, shifts to 2pm Fridays until 11pm, and starts at noon Saturdays. Quiz nights kick off at 7pm, lasting about two hours with prizes for winners, whose names join the venue's wandering trophy wall. Teams can participate across sessions, fostering repeat visits and community bonds.

European and Scandinavian Fusion

Blending European breadth with Scandinavian specificity, Backen pairs its beers with snaps and pub classics. The atmosphere invites casual enjoyment, whether for lunch, dinner, or drinks alone. Emphasis on digital payments, wheelchair accessibility, high chairs, and free WiFi underscores thoughtful hospitality in this vibrant locale.