Swedish Cuisine: Toast Skagen

It is impossible to visit Stockholm and not see Toast Skagen on a menu at some point. This signature Swedish dish was created by famous restauranteur Tore Wretman (Operakällaren, Stallmästargården, etc;) in the 1950's. The name is a little misleading as Skagen is a region of Denmark... but it is a very Swedish dish! There are some slight variations on how different restaurants prepare the dish, but generally it is toasted white bread topped with a mixture that consists of fresh peeled shrimp, mayonnaise, dill, salt and pepper. It is usually served with a slice of lemon, a sprig of dill and a dollop of bleak roe (löjrom). Some restaurants use creme fraiche instead of (or with) the mayonnaise and some might add a bit of Dijon mustard to the mix.
Most restaurants in Sweden serve Toast Skagen as an appetizer, but often are willing to serve a larger portion as a main course. It also makes a great lunch! Swedes love this delicious dish and it shouldn't be missed during a visit to Stockholm. If you are staying at the hotel then you don't have to go far to try a Toast Skagen. We serve it in our own restaurant: Bistro Rival. Otherwise any restaurant serving Swedish cuisine should have it on their menu.