Malmö is such an underrated foodie destination. The people that know, know … but the Malmö food scene is still largely unknown to the rest of the world. When people ask me why I love living in Malmö, the food culture is the first thing that pops into my mind. My Instagram is littered my latest food adventures so it isn’t surprising that the most common question I get is about where to eat in Malmö.
If you’re into food you probably know that Copenhagen is one of the best food cities in the world. But what many people don’t realize is that you don’t have to cross the Øresund to have an exceptional food experience. You can have a taste of the Nordic food culture right here in Malmö.
After spending so much time exploring the food scene in my home, I’m excited to share with you all my favourite hot spots and hidden gems. So here it is, everything you need to know about to where to eat in Malmö in 2023.
Visiting Malmö? Read my guide of all the things to do in Malmö – from a local’s perspective!
Where to Eat in Malmö in 2023
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The best brunch in Malmö
Mygel: This off-the-beaten-path brunch spot is located in the middle of an unassuming warehouse district, and has become easily my favourite place for brunch in Malmö. They serve an array of Nordic-inspired small plates with ingredients sourced from local farms alongside bloody marys and wine for a delicious brunch experience. Booking a table is recommended.
Ruths: One of my favourite spots for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in Malmö, Ruths does it all. Using seasonal ingredients they serves unique brunch dishes and delicious pastries. And their bread is easily the best in the city.
Kärleksgatan 3: Tucked away in Davidshall, this tiny little brunch spot offers great food, coffee, and the most cutesy interior.
Jord: This spot offers my favourite vegan brunch in Malmö. With a cozy cafe setting and brunch options that range from toasts to oatmeal, and more.
Atrium: Atrium is the perfect cafe to grab brunch, and is absolutely one of my favourite brunches in the city. The ambiance is perfection, and I am obsessed with their very affordable breakfast platters, filled with everything from a yogurt parfait, to cheese and fresh bread (and don’t forget the bottomless coffee).
Geijersgatan 53: This beautiful cafe is also home to a Scandinavian home goods store, and is tucked away in one of Malmö’s most beautiful residential neighbourhoods. They serve delicious coffee from Solde, and have lots of breakfast options including toasts and yogurt bowls.
Kaka på kaka: Located in Limhamn’s old town, this is a great place for brunch. I really love their breakfast plates which include a mix of toasts and yogurt made with homemade ingredients.
Cafe Grannen: Looking for vegan brunch in Malmö? This breakfast buffet is served everyday in the cutest little cafe. The spread includes an assortment of homemade pies, breads, and other treats.
The best lunch in Malmö
Saltimporten Canteen: If you’re looking for a very local lunch experience in Malmö, this place is so quintessentially Malmö and is one of the best lunches in the city. Open only on weekdays, they make one daily lunch option each day (plus a vegetarian option for the week) using seasonal, local ingredients. You never know exactly what you’re going to get but it is fantastic every time!
Ramen to Biiru: This popular Copenhagen ramen spot has made it’s way to Malmö with a sunny patio overlooking Möllevångstorget. The ramen is exceptional and they offer a fun selection of craft beers from the Danish brewery Mikkeller.
Marvin: You probably didn’t expect to find authentic British pies and scotch eggs in the middle of Malmö, but newcomer Marvin has brought a taste of Britain to the city. Serving beer on tap and classic British food including their famous homemade pies, this spot has quickly become a go-to favourite for me.
Scandwich: If you want to try a modern version of Danish open-faced sandwiches in Malmö, I really cannot recommend Scandwich enough. With toppings changing regularly and ranging from traditional Nordic flavours to others with Asian influence, this is a popular spot for a reason. They also have a great wine and beer selection.
Matverkstaden: Located on the outskirts of the city in Kirseberg, this old rail yard, this is a food market that hosts rotating vendors and food trucks, as well as live music and other fun activities. Hours and vendors can vary, so check out their Instagram for current details.
SMAK: The name of this Malmo Konsthall (Malmö art gallery) restaurant translates directly to “taste” and they offer a really great dagens lunch (“lunch of the day”). They make premium food, and you can take your own salad, bread, dessert, and coffee from the buffets. It’s a great value for lunch in central Malmö.
Noir Kaffekultur: Ready to be transported to a Parisian patio? I love the lunch and coffee here, particularly while sitting on the patio watching bikes zoom past. They also transform into a wine bar in the afternoons, which makes it a great pitstop for a glass of wine, too.
Malmö Saluhall: The local “food hall” offers a variety of restaurants in a cool indoor market setting, and is a great spot to grab lunch if you’re exploring the city. Plus, their diverse food offerings mean that there is guaranteed to be something for everyone. I personally think you can find the best pizza in the city here at Noi, and also one of the best burgers in the city at Falafel & Burgers.
AB Småland: This lifestyle concept store not only carries the most beautiful home goods, but it also offers a great vegan buffet lunch and coffee shop.
Far i Hatten: Located in the middle of one of Malmö’s coolest parks, Folkets Park, this is the perfect spot to grab a patio beer or glass or natural wine and exceptional pizza in the sun. It’s also a great spot for dinner, but be prepared to wait a bit in a queue. This spot is popular!
Spoonery: Spoonery is all about bowls. If you’re in the mood to try a Scandinavian classic, this is an awesome place to try Swedish meatballs.
Fiskehoddorna: Also known as Malmö’s fish market, this spot lines the street with colourful huts. Here, you can pick up the local catch-of-the-day to bring home and cook, or you can opt to eat to eat on their back patio. You won’t find better fish ‘n chips in Malmö, trust me.
Slottsträdgårdens Kafé: Nestled in the middle of Malmö’s most central park, you’ll find this picture perfect cafe. This is a great summer patio spot for lunch or fika in the sun.
Boru Bowl Bar: Boru Bowl is one of the lunch spots I visit most frequently in Malmö. It is just so good and is a spot for the most delicious Asian-inspired bowls. The Crispy Pork is their most popular, but my personal go-to is the Boru Salmon.
Pink Head Noodle Bar: Also fantastic ramen spot with a great beer selection located right in Malmö old town.
The best dinner in Malmö
Ruths: This is a really popular spot in Malmö – and for good reason. Ruths offers a really premium food experience. Using high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients, the chefs at Ruths serve up incredible Scandinavian-inspired cuisine. With a selection of small plates to choose from, you get to experience some of the best food Malmö has to offer. And, if you’re looking for something a bit more casual, you can opt for pizza and a glass of natural in their courtyard in the warmer months. They also have a shop at the front with homemade goods, and it is my favourite spot to buy artisen groceries. Reservations are recommended, but they do have some drop-in seats.
Lyran Matbar: This is my favourite restaurant in Malmö. Which, in a city full of world-class food options, that’s a huge statement. In this tiny little restaurant, chefs use only seasonal, primarily local ingredients, so the menu changes everyday. When you arrive, you’ll be presented with the ingredient list for the day, but there is an element of surprise as the specific menu items will be presented to you throughout the evening. At Lyran, your only option is a full tasting menu (although you can choose from a meat or veggie option). Make sure to make a reservation far in advance to avoid disappointment, because this spot is very small and incredibly popular.
Mutantur: I really love Mutantur. They serve a variety of gastronomic small plates with flavours inspired from around the world. I love the small tasting portions, because you’re able to try a variety of different options, all thoughtfully curated from fresh ingredients. They are only open on weekdays and if you’re lucky, you can find a drop-in bar seat. But I’d also recommend booking this spot well in advance.
Riket: This place is fun and trendy, the food is delicious, and they have an amazing natural wine selection. Another spot with small plates made from in-season locally sourced ingredients, Riket serves up some pretty incredible food from their tiny bar side kitchen. They also have an impressive wine list with lots of natural wine options, plus a lively patio alongside the restaurant in the summer months.
Aster: New to the scene in summer 2021, Aster has quickly become one of the hottest restaurants in the city. It has also become a go to spot for me for after work drinks and dinner. The food concept at Aster is built around open fire cooking. Their menu is rotating based on what’s in season, and they cook an assortment of small plate options over open fire for a truly unique experience. Reservations here are encouraged but there’s sometimes drop-in space at the bar, and on the patio in warmer months.
BISe: Pronounced ‘biz’ and located right in the centre of the city, you’ll find a restaurant, cocktail bar, and wine bar all under one roof at BISe. Int he restaurant you’ll find them serving delicious seasonal small plates in a tasting meny format, and they easily have one of the best wine lists in the city. You can opt for a wine pairing, or a bottle from their impressive wine cellar. And then after dinner, you can have a drink at the bar, affectionately called Bar Bisou.
Sauvage: This Möllan-based restaurant and wine bar is inspired by the Parisien bistrot scene. They have a very cozy environment that will transport you right to France, and serve seasonal small plates and a rotating menu. You can stop by for a full dinner in the restaurant, or some small plates and wine on the patio.
LU: This is the best spot for premium yet affordable Chinese food in Malmö. It is really some of the very best Hong Kong-influenced Cantonese food I’ve ever had, with a variety of meat dishes and dumplings.
RAU: LU’s new vegan next door, you can try all of LU’s most popular dishes in vegan form.
Krøl Bar: The popular Malmö night club Plan B has recently opened Krøl, which was named after the musician who designed the bar. They serve Danish beer and small plates like tacos, quesadillas, and ceviche. It’s a great spot in the heart of Möllan for a casual dinner or after work snacks in a relaxed setting.
Asino: I spent years saying that I couldn’t find good pasta in Malmö, and then Asino opened and changed the game. This tiny spot is drop-in only so you’ll want to get their early, but it’s worth it for the delicious rotating pasta menu and natural wine list.
Bar Kiosko: This newcomer to Malmö has a casual very casual dive bar or tavern-like feel, but don’t let looks deceive you. The menu features small plates and snacks that have Mediterranean inspiration, making this a great place for a casual dinner with good drinks.
Opopoppa: This tiny local Möllan favourite spot serves unique flavours of pizza by the slice, cans of beer, and a selection of natural wines.
Casual Street Food: Easily one of the best burgers in Malmö. And they offer many other American-influenced menu items like milkshakes and fries.
Soi 29: This isn’t your typical fast food Thai restaurant, but it is so much better. Soi 29 is the best spot for premium Thai food in Malmö. The space is cool and the food is so spicy and authentic. Reservations are recommended, but they do have some drop-in seats at the bar.
Västergatan: If you’re looking for a fresh, seasonal tasting experience in Malmö, Västergatan is another great option. The food is premium and packs a lot of flavour. You’ll want to make a reservation here.
Mastio: Many people say this is the best pizza in Malmö. Located a bit outside of the city centre along the water in the suburb of Limhamn, Mastio is an incredibly popular spot – especially in the summer when their patio is open. Reservations are recommended.
400 Grader: If you’re looking for excellent pizza in Malmo, 400 Grader is located centrally and has a really nice patio in the summer.
Elsa: A newcomer to the Malmö food scene, Elsa is a sustainable food and wine bar sitting alongside the canal overlooking Malmö castle. Here you’ll find a rotating menu of small plates with unexpected flavour combinations and in a really intimate setting. Booking ahead is recommended, but you can also stop in to have a seat at the bar or on the canal-side patio.
The best cafes in Malmö
If you’re visiting Sweden, having a fika is a must. And the list of best fika spots in Malmö is long. So instead of including it here, I have rounded up a list of the best cafes in Malmö. You can read the full blog post here.
The best bars in Malmö
Care/Of: This is a great central spot in Malmö for high quality cocktails. It also has a perfectly intimate and cozy vibe alongside the canal.
Aster: Aster is first a restaurant, but they also have easily the best cocktails in the city and an amazing outdoor patio in the summer.
Liket: Liket is the cocktail bar affiliated with one of my favourite restaurants, Riket. Located right in the city centre, this hidden courtyard space offers a fantastic cocktail menu that changes every day. And if cocktails aren’t your thing, they have beer, wine, and a delicious selection of small plates for snacking. It’s a great spot for a pre-dinner aperitivo.
Mikkeller Beer Garden: The popular Danish craft beer brand hosts a summer pop-up up in Folket’s Park. If you’re in Malmö during the summer months, this is a must-visit!
Pivo: With two popular locations on both Friisgatan and Västergatan, Pivo is a Czech beer bar with a simple food and drink menu, and really fun ambiance. Here you have the choice of one Czech beer (either big or small size), or a glass natural Czech wine (red, white, orange, or sparkling). If you’re feeling hungry they also have a small menu of snacks and Czech classics like sausage or goulash.
Gaji: This newcomer cocktail bar was opened by a locally famous chef, Jennie Walldén. Its a central cocktail bar with Korean-inspired cocktails and in a cool setting.
Many dinner spots in Malmö are also really great for just grabbing a casual drink at the bar, including Far i Hatten, Kiosko, Krøl, BISe, Aster, Ruth’s, and Scandwich.
The best wine bars in Malmö
Julie: Julie is one of my go-to classic spots for natural wine in Malmö. It’s a cozy spot in middle of the old town and offers a very fun wine selection – both bottles and tap wine. In the summer months, they have the most lovely courtyard and they serve really great small plates to snack on. On busier days, the staff will often open unique bottles to try, so I always recommend asking if they have any special bottles open that you can purchase a glass from.
Brogatan: The recently-opened sister restautant of Liket and Riket, Brogatan is also a restaurant and bar, but the highlight is the wine list. I feel confident in saying that Brogatan has one of the best wine lists in the city, and is a great spot to go with a group to try a fun and funky bottle or two.
L’enoteca: This central location has the most amazing wine garden across the street this summer. It’s the perfect place for a summertime glass in the sun.
Ava Vinbar: Located near trendy Sankt Knutstorg, this newcomer to the wine bar scene offers a great wine seletion by the glass and an array of small plates in the middle of an unassuming local neighbourhood.
Freja cafe & vinbar: Both a cafe and wine bar, Freja is located in popular Davidsahalltorg. They serve an assortment of natural wine by-the-glass on their sunny French-inspired patio.
Bar Bisou: Located under the same roof as BISe, Bar Bisou is a cocktail and wine bar with a fantastic wine selection. It also has one of the best wine cellars in the city, and is a great place to grab a special or unusual bottle to share.
San Greal: Welcome to Malmö’s very own champagne bar! If you’re interesting in doing a champagne tasting in Malmö, or just want to have a glass in a cozy inner-city courtyard, this is the place to do it.
If you’re a natural wine lover like myself, you can also visit any of these favourite lunch or dinner places for wine and snacks: Ruths, Aster, Riket, or Far i Hatten
The best falafal in Malmö
Did you know that falafel is basically the unofficial food of Malmö? You’ll find it everywhere and it is easily the cheapest food you can buy for only 30-40 SEK. There are many awesome falafel restaurants in Malmö to choose from and you really can’t go wrong.
But if you were to ask me where to find the best falafel in Malmö, my answer would easily be Värnhem’s Falafel. Not only is the falafel tasty, but they actually make you a fresh pita right in front of you.
