Backen Ölcafé Travel Guide

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.