Flickorna Helin Café: Historic Charm & Cozy Delights

Flickorna Helin Café is one of Stockholm’s most charming and unique café. The historic café nestled inside the historic Skånska Gruvan exhibition pavilion on the island of Djurgården. What sets it apart is the building itself—a whimsical, fairy-tale-like structure designed by architech Gustaf Wickman.

Stockholm World Fair

Originally built for the 1897 Stockholm World Fair, Skånska Gruvan showcased the Scanian brick and sugar mills, as well as the region’s lime, cement, and coal industries. While the mining exhibition is long gone, the main building remains, now home to Flickorna Helin Café & Restaurant.

A Cozy Café

The café’s entrance is located at the lower level, just up a short flight of steps. Inside, the space is intimate, with a pastry counter greeting visitors upon entry. To the right, a cozy oval-shaped seating area features small café tables, chairs, and bench seating along the walls. The arched brick walls, fireplace, wooden benches, and iron accents create a warm, Viking-inspired atmosphere.

During the warmer months, guests can step through a doorway at the back of the seating area, ascend the stairs, and enjoy their coffee or lunch on the outdoor patio. Built into the hillside, the patio is shaded by dense trees and overhanging bushes. The other side features a decorative cement balcony lined with flowers, offering picturesque views of the park and water beyond. Birds are frequent visitors, often hoping for a share of your meal.

Pastries, Sandwiches, and more

Flickorna Helin cafe offers freshly made pastries daily, along with coffee and tea. Their lunch menu includes a delightful selection of sandwiches, salads, and soups, all made fresh. Though the café closes at 5 PM, a banquet hall above the restaurant is available for private events, and they also provide catering services.

This charming café is the perfect spot to relax after a scenic walk around Djurgården or a day exploring the island’s many museums.