This winter, one of Stockholm’s most atmospheric places will be reborn in new splendor. Leif Mannerström invites you to a sumptuous and classic Swedish Christmas buffet in Solliden’s restored halls. Set amid Skansen’s historic surroundings and overlooking the world’s most beautiful capital, this year promises a Christmas like no other. The Christmas buffet is finally back at Solliden, and to ensure it’s one of Sweden’s best, Leif Mannerström is taking the helm. Leif is one of our leading experts on holiday cuisine and traditions and also has a special connection to Solliden.
“For me, it’s very special to be back at Solliden. This is where I began my culinary journey, at age 16 exactly 70 years ago, when I learned about pickling and curing from the cold-food chefs in the kitchen—recipes that I still use today. I look forward to honoring Solliden’s legacy and creating a Christmas buffet that is something truly special—something worthy of this fantastic place,” says Leif Mannerström.
In recent years, Solliden’s classic banquet palace has been restored and renovated to its full splendor. Now that the halls are reopening, there will be room for all of Sweden’s Christmas traditions. The goal is to create the country’s most magnificent Christmas buffet, featuring dishes and traditions from every corner of Sweden. Here, guests are greeted by stately halls and a dessert and candy room with stunning views of Stockholm.
The focus is on authentic Swedish culinary craftsmanship, prepared from scratch with care for both ingredients and tradition—entirely in line with what Leif Mannerström has devoted his entire long career to: Swedish food culture at its very best.
“Swedish Christmas food is something I’ve loved and worked with throughout my career—it’s very close to my heart. The Christmas buffet at Solliden should feel inviting, atmospheric, and family-friendly, but also truly magnificent. Just as Christmas should be. My goal is to lay the foundation for a time-honored tradition that will endure for years to come. Only the very best is good enough, and that’s exactly what we’ll offer our guests,” says Leif Mannerström.
The Christmas buffet is served from November 12 through Christmas Day, with seating available from lunch through dinner. Seating is available both in the main dining room and in private dining rooms for larger groups. Guests at Solliden should be able to start the evening with a drink at one of the bars, enjoy a classic Swedish Christmas buffet with all that it entails, and then conclude the evening in a setting that combines Swedish traditions with fantastic views and historic halls.
Skansen’s Christmas celebration is a spectacular experience, full of activities and details drawn from traditional Swedish celebrations. Combining it with Leif Mannerström’s Christmas buffet at Solliden enhances that feeling as much as possible. Admission to Skansen is included for all guests.