Ethnic restaurants in Stockholm: a sampler

Looking for some exotic tastes during your trip to the Swedish capital? Contributor Emy Gelb serves up a selection of ethnic restaurants in Stockholm that will be sure to tickle your taste buds.

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Every now and then herring and potatoes gets old. While often delicious, the simplicity of Swedish foods sometimes gets you craving a bit of spice.

Luckily, waves of immigrants and curious travelers have brought a variety of exotic tastes back to Stockholm.

If you are in the mood for a tasty treat, check some of these delightful ethnic restaurants.

Shanti is a bohemian gem located in the heart of Söder, and is one of Stockholm’s best Indian restaurants. Warm service, elaborate décor, and homemade ingredients make Shanti an excellent place for an Indian meal.

There are a wide variety of delicious choices, ranging from extra mild to hot and spicy. Plus, there is a large selection of vegetarian options, packed with fresh vegetables and authentic spices.

For a closer look, check out the Shanti website.

Several Stockholm locals have told me that Akki Sushi is the only place where they will eat sushi. This tiny take away restaurant, located just steps away from Medborgarplatsen, is a favorite.

Fresh fish, reasonable prices, and fast service are what make this restaurant stand out from the classic, overly trendy sushi spots around town. This restaurant is a must for sushi lovers.

For more information, visit: Akki Sushi.

Long time Stockholm establishment Bern’s recently opened a Singaporean inspired street food restaurant on their terrace. Dishes range from pike wrapped in banana leaves to BBQ baby back ribs covered in plum sauce.

Paper lanterns, refreshing cocktails, and world class DJs add to the posh atmosphere. The terrace will stay open for the summer, but once the weather cools down, Bern’s Asian is another delightful alternative.

For more information, check out the Bern's website.

Sa’hara Söder is solid Lebanese restaurant with super friendly service. The meze platters are huge but each plate that arrives at the table is unique, fresh, and tasty.

The desserts are especially delightful; the pistachio baklavas are the best I have tried. An extra plus, on Mondays and Tuesdays there are two for one deals.

For more information check out the Sa’hara Söder website.

Sabai-Soong is a kitschy, colourful Thai restaurant in the heart of Östermalm. Palm trees, twinkle lights, and authentic décor make stepping into this restaurant feel like arriving on a beach in Thailand.

The food is pretty straightforward, but good. It is the atmosphere that makes this place feel like a true vacation.

For more information, go to the Sabai-Soong website.

This is of course just a small selection of what Stockholm's multicultural restaurant scene has to offer, so feel free to list your own favourite eating establishments below.