In its most basic sense and translation, fika is a Swedish term for a coffee break that often includes tasty treats. The concept of fika (which is both a noun and a verb) is integral to Swedish life, and the ritual often takes place twice a day – once mid-morning and once mid-afternoon. Fika can be as simple as having a cup of coffee away from your work desk, or as elaborate as meeting up with a group of friends in a café and indulging in a kanelbulle (cinnamon bun) or another delicious pastry. It truly is part of the Swedish way of life, so it makes sense that a village founded by Swedes in the 1800s would have great options for such a tradition!

One note: Because Stockholm is such a small town, many of the stores and cafes are only open seasonally and/or on weekends – and the best way to stay up-to-date on hours and menu items is through each business’s Facebook page (linked in each listing).

I should mention that I actually lived in Sweden for a few years, so I think I have a pretty good background in this cultural tradition. Follow along as I fika my way through Stockholm, Wisconsin!

The most authentic fika: Jenny Lind Bakery

Named after the Swedish opera singer, Jenny Lind Bakery is run by local baker Ruth Raich, whose mother grew up in Sweden. Located in the bluffs above the village of Stockholm, the bakery is known for its use of as many local ingredients as possible – and of course everything is home-baked from scratch. Jenny Lind Bakery is located on a farm and is only open on select weekends, though Ruth delivers her baked goods to the E&S Market in Pepin so shoppers can purchase items during the week. It’s really fun to stop by the farm on open weekends, though, because the bakery building itself is so cute! Ruth takes pre-orders, or you can stop by to see what’s still available. Jenny Lind specialties include cardamom buns (kardemummabullar), cinnamon rolls (kanelbullar), and hearty breads. While you’re picking up your goodies, don’t miss the Pippi Longstocking mural on the silo and say “hej” to the goats wandering around (but don’t let them steal your treats)!

The most indulgent fika: Stockholm Pie & General Store

You can’t come to Stockholm without stopping at Stockholm Pie & General Store. Locally, regionally, and nationally known, this place has everything you need for a great fika. Besides the full espresso bar, there is of course the shop’s namesake: Pie. A lot and lot of pies! The most popular menu item are their pie slices, which rotate seasonally and by chance. From fruit to cream, all the yummy fillings are encased in a secret recipe crust that is the perfect amount of flaky. (The store also offers select gluten-free pies.)  Also available are full 12-inch pies (by pre-order only), 6-inch pies, and pie cookies. If for some reason you’re not a fan of pie, try a scoop of ice cream or head to the adjacent General Store and Marketplace to pick up candy, truffles, and a variety of other sweets. The interior of the café has just been updated with a fresh coat of paint and is a very cozy spot to have a fika, and in the summer, their outdoor courtyard is a relaxing place to sit and watch passersby in the village.  

Other places for fika in Stockholm, Wisconsin:

Little Larke Bakery – a scratch bakery tucked away in an adorable courtyard off the main village cross street. Owner/baker Leigh makes SO many delicious breads and pastries, and there’s always something new to try. For an eastern-European-style fika, try the kolaches! There is outdoor seating on a side deck that is maybe the most peaceful place you will ever sit.

Allaire House – a new coffee shop with specialty drinks and treats. They have indoor seating with a very cozy fireplace lounge area, or a wide veranda on the front of the building that overlooks the Great River Road. They are open on seasonal weekends. There’s also a vacation rental unit upstairs from the coffee shop.

YMCA Camp Pepin – while YMCA Camp Pepin is a traditional kids summer camp, we also offer off-season rentals of our cabins. Every lodging option includes a coffee maker, and guests can enjoy a fika anywhere on the property. (For a super cozy fika, there are fireplaces is one of the camper cabins and in the Lodge.) The camp is situated on the shores of Lake Pepin, which offers a stunning view in every season, and is a perfect place to unwind in nature. For an extra authentic experience, make campfire coffee using a percolator (each cabin is equipped with its own dedicated fire ring)!

Another option: fika to-go

Fika can be practiced anywhere, including at home! Are you staying in one of the area’s great vacation rentals? Grab a cup of coffee and a pastry from any of the above-mentioned places and get comfy and cozy in your own place. I made my own coffee at home, grabbed my Jenny Lind Bakery kardemummabullar, and enjoyed a fireside fika in our own backwoods!