More than just a coffee break, fika is a beloved Swedish ritual that involves taking time out to relax, enjoy good company and indulge in a sweet treat (or two).
If you’ve ever dreamed of living a little more slowly and taking moments to pause during a hectic day, there’s a Scandinavian tradition that might be the perfect antidote to a fast-paced life: fika.
But what exactly is the ritual, and why is it so good for you?
More importantly, where can you find a slice of Scandi serenity in London?
L360 explores the magic of fika and shares the best cafes in the capital where you can experience it for yourself.
What is Fika?
In Sweden, fika is sacred. It’s a pause in the day — usually mid-morning or afternoon —when people gather to enjoy a cup of coffee (kaffe) and something sweet like a cinnamon bun (kanelbulle), cardamom bread or a piece of cake.
Read more: Why everyone wants to dress like a Scandi girl and how to pull it off
However, fika is more than just a snack break — it’s about slowing down and appreciating life’s simple pleasures.
Jonny England, director of coffee at Swedish coffee brand Löfbergs, explains: “Fika is about finding time in your day to slow down and spend time with friends, family and colleagues.
“It’s about nourishing crucial relationships in your life and appreciating time with people around you.”
Swedes take fika seriously — it’s not unusual for workplaces to have set fika times, and it’s as much about socialising as it is about refuelling.
The tradition fosters connection, promotes mindfulness and allows people to recharge in an increasingly fast-paced world.
Read more: Best London bars and restaurants for cosy heated outdoor dining for 2024
Why is fika good for you?
Fika has become a tradition in Sweden for good reason.
Jonny says: “Numerous studies have shown that taking short breaks in the working day can boost creativity, productivity and overall happiness.”
Indeed a 2019 study found that breaks can reduce or prevent stress, help to maintain performance throughout the day and reduce the need for a long recovery at the end of the day,
He adds that because the tradition encourages you to take a coffee break with friends, it also helps prevent things like loneliness and stress.
Jonny explains: “Fika helps us place more emphasis on joy, community and friendship in our everyday routines.”
Read more: Great British Bake Off finalist Crystelle Pereira on her simple recipes for autumn
Best Scandinavian cafes in London to enjoy fika
London’s cafe scene has embraced the fika culture, with several charming Scandinavian cafes offering the perfect backdrop for this soothing ritual.
Here are a few of the best spots to relax and enjoy an authentic fika experience in the capital.
Fabrique, vaious locations (including Hoxton, Covent Garden and Notting Hill)
A Swedish bakery that’s brought its irresistible kanelbullar and artisanal bread to London.
Fabrique’s cinnamon and cardamom buns are the stuff of legend, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for an afternoon fika.
View this post on Instagram
Ole & Steen, various locations (including Victoria, Canary Wharf and Soho)
This Danish bakery chain offers an array of mouth-watering pastries, including its famous kanelsnegle (cinnamon swirl).
With multiple branches across London, it’s the perfect place to pop in for a quick fika or to sit down and savour the flavours of Scandinavia.
View this post on Instagram
Bageriet, Covent Garden
Tucked away in a small street, Bageriet is a Swedish gem in the heart of Covent Garden.
This cosy bakery offers authentic Swedish cakes, buns and cookies, with a strong emphasis on traditional recipes — its prinsesstårta (princess cake) is not to be missed.
For those not in the know, prinsesstårta is bright green and full of custard, jam, marzipan, and whipped cream. Fit for a princess.
View this post on Instagram
Embrace fika in your everyday life
The beauty of fika lies in its simplicity. You don’t need to be in Sweden (or even in a cafe) to enjoy it — you can easily incorporate it into your own routine.
Jonny says: “Start by scheduling a specific time to sit down for a coffee break. Some coffee brands, like Löfbergs, which has a rich Swedish heritage, are really accessible for people looking to practise Fika, or a more mindful way of living, at home.
“While the coffee is important, the heart of fika is socialising, so schedule in time to sit with a loved one or call a family member, even if it’s just for a few minutes, and most importantly, be present!”
L360 recommends adding a splash of Sweet Freedom’s Pumpkin Spice Barista syrup in your coffee for extra autumn cosiness.
So, next time you feel like the world is moving too fast, remember: it’s always a good time for fika.
