Simply Abu Dhabi Magazine XXI

2 8 1 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I make for authentic interior styling. If you feel like something savoury, try the classic Swedish meatball sandwich – much better than the meatballs at IKEA. For refined dining head straight to one of Sweden’s most popular celebrity chef’s restaurants. Mathias Dahlgren’s Matbaren is a wonderful place that marries great views with a relaxed atmosphere and sensational cuisine. According to Dahlgran, his food philosophy is “Swedish identity on a regional platform. A cuisine based on natural produce and natural taste – the natural cuisine.” Another award-winning restaurant is found at the Fotografiska centre – a cavernous space that collects and presents the world’s best contemporary photography. Managed by chef Paul Svensson, the restaurant is a big favourite with vegetarians thank to the seasonal greens concept. The top floor café at also boasts one of city’s best viewpoints. Other interesting options include Oaxen Krog & Slip on the island of Djurgården the centre of the city. Set in a refurbished boatyard shed with marine inspired interiors, this internationally celebrated restaurant has two options. You can eat in the Slip, a laid-back bistro, or opt for the Krog for flawless gastronomy. For great pan-Asian food it has to be Barbro in hipster Hornstull – industrial chic, flavour-packed dishes and a cinema cocktail bar downstairs all ensure good times. When it comes to hotels in the city, rest assured the range and the quality is world class. Hotel Lydmar is a remarkable venue that swerves perceived conventions of formal hospitality and cultivates its own style and approach. In their own words, “We like to keep it simple and straightforward in a relaxed and informal environment. We believe in a hotel experience liberated from formalities and conservative stiffness. Calmness and simplicity is promoted rather than an abundance of impressions.” Located next to the National Museum, the Lydmar is an uplifting place to stay with spectacular views over the Old Town, the Royal Palace and the shimmering waterfront. Be sure to use the complimentary guest access to the Grand Nordic Spa – it’s a meticulously crafted escape in which to deeply relax. The hotel employees seem more like friendly acquaintances after just a short time and this further enhances the homely ambience. A totally different but equally fulfilling option is the Miss Clara hotel by Nobis. This century-old Art Nouveau building was originally a school for girls, and the hotel takes its name from the former headmistress, Clara Strömberg. The interior is as cool as can be – industrial minimalismwith no sacrifice when it comes to comfort. Stunning original features such as parquet floors and tiling make this place a bit special. Miss Clara’s fish and shellfish stewwith chilli and sweet potato aioli is an essential dish to try while here. It’s a million times better than school dinners – that’s for sure. Hotel Hellsten is a genuinely cosmopolitan hotel with wonderful staff that put guests at