Gondolen, Stockholm Travel Guide

Gondolen floats 33 meters high, inspired by a dirigible gondola, attached to the Katarina Elevator in Stockholm's dynamic Slussen area. Since its inauguration on October 15, 1935, by King Gustav V, it has symbolized Swedish culinary tradition amid the modernist architecture of the era. Architect Le Corbusier praised Slussen as a pioneering work, and Gondolen quickly became a cherished spot for locals and visitors seeking luxury with unparalleled city vistas.The restaurant's position offers sweeping sights of the Saltsjön inlet, Gamla Stan's colorful rooftops, and Djurgården's green expanse, framing every meal with natural drama.

Rooted in traditional Swedish and French influences, Gondolen's menu elevates quality ingredients through modern techniques. Expect dishes like deconstructed Toast Skagen with sweet shrimp, dill, and trout roe; white wine-poached hake in tarragon cream with mussels and baby vegetables; or herb-dressed baby potatoes. Desserts such as Crème Chiboust with coconut, strawberries, and lemongrass ice cream provide fresh, floral finishes.After a multi-year renovation, it reopened in October 2023 under new management, fusing comfort foods like fish gratin and ratatouille with exclusive elements, all prepared in an open kitchen visible upon entry.

The dining room divides into evocative zones: Räksvansen, the curved 'shrimp tail' area with sofas around round tables and Sven X:et Erixson's mural 'Ljusårssalen'; Utsikten, the premier view-centric section with traditional elegance; and the central cocktail bar, alive with jazz bands and four Dry Martini variations. Upstairs, Bar Zeppelin on the 12th floor features an outdoor terrace between Katarinahissen and Mosebacke square, serving the full menu alongside beers and wines.Private dining in Kungarummet, unchanged since the king's visit, accommodates up to 30 for intimate gatherings with first-class service.

The drink selection shines with an exquisite wine cellar of rare vintages, sommelier recommendations, and signature cocktails. Weekend brunch pairs gastronomic plates with world-class drinks and live jazz, while seasonal offerings like the Christmas menu highlight classic flavors. Every element underscores Gondolen's ethos: every day merits celebration amid great company and craftsmanship.

Committed to ethical practices, Gondolen controls its supply chain through the fishing boat SM4 Tarona, yielding sustainable herring, trout, and perch, and gardens at Ulriksdals Värdshus for hyper-fresh greens and herbs. This approach ensures peak quality, harvested and served within hours, blending heritage with forward-thinking responsibility in one of Stockholm's most distinctive venues.