Pharmarium, Smaland Travel Guide

4.5 (1383)

Alchemy reborn: Prize-winning cocktails and small plates in Gamla Stan's historic apothecary heart, blending 1575 mystique with masterful mixology.

Nestled in the heart of Stockholm's Gamla Stan at Stortorget 7, Pharmarium is a prize-winning cocktail bar evoking the mystique of Sweden's first public apothecary from 1575. This intimate venue blends alchemical history with masterful mixology, offering innovative cocktails named after potions like Amortentia and Demon Cleaner, paired with creative small plates. The dimly lit space features green marble bars, plush sofas, wooden apothecary drawers, and a cozy atmosphere for 45 guests. Open evenings with later hours on weekends, it draws discerning locals and visitors seeking a unique blend of gastronomy and artistry in a historic setting. Reservations recommended for this gem amid cobblestone charm.

A brief summary to Pharmarium

Stortorget 7, Stockholm, 111 29, SE
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Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Monday 5 pm-11 pm
Tuesday 5 pm-11 pm
Wednesday 4 pm-12 am
Thursday 4 pm-12 am
Friday 3 pm-1 am
Saturday 3 pm-1 am
Sunday 5 pm-11 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Book ahead, especially for bar seating or groups; walk-ins snag window spots but space fills fast.
Pair cocktails with between-sized plates like beef tartar for a full gastronomic adventure.
Visit post-10pm for adults-only vibe; no minors or strollers allowed after then.
Savor summer outdoor seating overlooking Stortorget's buzz.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Bar Flamingo

El Duderino

The Bishops Arms - Jönköping

Murphy's

Corner Club

Explore Pharmarium on the Map

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

Getting There

Walking

From Gamla Stan T-bana station, 5-8 minute walk along Västerlånggatan's pedestrian streets to Stortorget; flat cobblestone terrain, easy access but watch for evening crowds, free.
Taxi

Taxi from central Stockholm like Sergels Torg, 8-12 minutes depending on traffic; drop-off at Stortorget, limited parking nearby, 150-250 SEK.
Bus

Bus 3 from Slussen to Gamla Stan stop, 4-6 minutes then 3-minute walk; frequent service evenings, accessible but standing room possible, 30-40 SEK single ticket.

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Discover more about Pharmarium

Alchemical Origins at Stortorget

Pharmarium occupies a site steeped in pharmaceutical history, where in 1575 Anthonius Busenius received permission to sell medicines to the public from what was once part of the royal apothecary in Stockholm's castle. This marked Sweden's inaugural public apothecary, blending early science with folklore remedies like mumiepulver and unicorn horn. The bar revives this legacy through its name—Pharmarium—and decor of wooden drawers labeled with curious elixirs, transporting guests to an era of alchemy and healing arts amid Gamla Stan's medieval streets.

Intimate Interiors and Ambiance

Inside, the 45-seat space unfolds with a solid green marble bar for prime mixology views, surrounded by bar stools. Plush sofas encircle low tables in carpeted rooms, while a large round table accommodates groups of eight. Cozy window nooks by Stortorget are reserved for walk-ins, offering glimpses of the square's vibrant life. Dim lighting and historical motifs create an enveloping, timeless feel, perfect for savoring drinks without strollers or crowds.

Mastery of Mixology

Pharmarium excels in artistic cocktails, with a menu of spirituosa featuring house creations like Imaginarium's sweet fantasy notes or Demon Cleaner's bold edge. Classics receive modern twists, crafted by skilled bartenders using fresh, innovative ingredients. The bar's microbrewery beers and select wines complement the potion-like drinks, emphasizing precision and creativity in every pour.

Gastronomic Pairings

Substantia on the menu includes between-sized plates pioneered here years ago: beef tartar with soy-pickled shiitake, puffed wild rice, and shiso cress; or citron-gravad strömming with tomato-browned butter. These inventive dishes harmonize with cocktails, drawing from seasonal and global flavors to elevate the experience beyond mere bar fare.

Evening Rhythm in Gamla Stan

Operations align with nightlife, opening at 5pm Monday-Tuesday until 11pm, 4pm Wednesday-Thursday until midnight, 3pm Friday-Saturday until 1am, and 5pm Sundays until 11pm. After 10pm, the venue restricts minors, preserving its adult-oriented intimacy. Summer brings outdoor seating to extend the alchemical evening into Stockholm's fresh air.

Legacy of Innovation

Designed by the team behind conceptual spots like Brasserie Le Rouge, Pharmarium weaves storytelling into every element, from the logo's serpent-coiled Asklepios staff to potion-named libations. It stands as a cultural nod to Gamla Stan's heritage, where knowledge met magic, inviting guests to partake in a modern ritual of taste and discovery.