Saluhall means food hall and in principle this is a food hall but the Östermalms Saluhall is probably the most luxurious gourmet food hall you will ever encounter in an ornate brick building opened in 1888. Inside, the stalls are framed by carved pillars, and a second story of powder-blue and deep red details rises towards the ceiling. The fonts are ridiculously nostalgic and the storefront laden with fresh fish and related condiments.
It's a sophisticated take on the traditional market, with fresh produce, fish counters, baked goods, butcher shops and tea vendors, but none of this is supermarket fare. Think more caviar and wild salmon than milk and bread, although many of the Swedish staples like pickled herring abound. As you probably guessed, fish is the star attraction here, both retail and served in any of the plentiful dining spots. Look out for Lisa Elmqvist, an institution in Stockholm, famed for its top-quality seafood. Classic dishes include shrimp sandwiches, gravadlax and fish soup, though it's always worth scanning the blackboard for the day's handful of specials. For best results, arrive hungry and curious.
