As a vegetarian, I was a bit nervous about finding the best food options in Sweden (especially given how I have struggled with my past experiences while traveling), but my experience turned out to be overwhelmingly positive, particularly in Stockholm, where vegetarian and vegan options were both plentiful and affordable!
Stockholm proved to be a haven for vegetarians, with nearly every single restaurant offering complete vegetarian meals. The city's culinary landscape was very diverse, featuring Mediterranean, Thai, Italian, Nepali, and traditional Swedish cuisines. Even fast-food chains surprised me with their variety of vegetarian choices, making it super easy to find meals that fit my needs.
Traveling outside of Stockholm, such as on my weekend trip to Uppsala, were a bit more difficult, as there weren’t as many dining options available; however, the saving grace was visiting grocery stores, like ICA, as they saved the day with their fresh pastries and hot food sections, which provided convenient and tasty alternatives (try the Pain au chocolat, so so so good!). Just a quick note, be cautious of delivery fees when traveling outside Stockholm, as they can add up quickly and become a bit costly.
One of the most pleasant surprises was discovering vegetarian versions of traditional Swedish dishes, such as meatballs. While IKEA's vegetarian meatballs may not be the most traditional, they were absolutely delicious. For more authentic options, many restaurants offered vegan alternatives to traditional meals, ensuring that I never felt left out or deprived of the local culinary experience.
One of the most charming aspects of Swedish summers is seeing people enjoying ice cream cones on sunny days. Although I’m not typically a big fan of ice cream, the sight of everyone else indulging made me want to join in the fun. I often engaged with restaurant employees to find out their favorites and get recommendations, and they were always more than happy to help. Don’t hesitate to ask for modifications or suggestions—they are usually very accommodating.
Advice for Future Abroad Students
- Embrace the Diversity: Stockholm offers a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options. Don’t hesitate to explore different cuisines and try new dishes—you'll be pleasantly surprised.
- Grocery Stores Are Your Friend: When traveling outside major cities, grocery stores can be a lifesaver. They offer fresh and affordable options that cater to vegetarians.
- Ask for Recommendations: Engage with local restaurant employees—they are often more than willing to provide great advice and suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
- Enjoy the Local Delights: Don’t miss out on trying vegetarian versions of traditional Swedish foods and summer treats. They add a unique and flavorful dimension to your cultural experience.
Overall, my experience as a vegetarian in Sweden was incredibly positive. The variety and accessibility of vegetarian options in Stockholm, coupled with delightful surprises like traditional dishes and summer treats, made for an enjoyable and fulfilling culinary journey. If you're a vegetarian planning to visit Sweden, rest assured that you will find plenty of delicious and satisfying meals to enjoy. Trying new foods and experiencing local cuisines is always an exciting adventure and a critical part in truly understanding the lifestyle and habits of a foreign country; food is a remarkable gateway to understanding and appreciating a country's culture. Enjoy every moment and every bite as you explore all that Sweden has to offer!
