When you think about Sweden or Swedish culture, the first things that come to mind are probably ABBA or IKEA; both are huge parts of the Swedish identity seen from an outside perspective. But have you heard of another four-letter word that is a defining part of Swedish culture? Let me introduce you to fika. Before going to Sweden in 2019, I also had no clue what this word was. Fika should be one of the most common Swedish words for travellers to know right after hej (hello) and tack (thank you). Loosely translated it means “coffee break,” but to call fika just a coffee break would be a disservice to the custom.
What is fika?
Fika is both a noun and a verb, but it is also considered a Swedish social institution. The Swedish Ministry of Foreign affairs posted a post saying that “it’s a state of mind, an attitude and a legitimate reason to set aside a moment for quality time.” Fika provides a time to hang out and catch up with friends, meet new people, or even network with business partners. It does not always include a coffee, you can switch that out for tea or even an ade, but it is usually a non-alcoholic and hot beverage. There also is always a snack; it tends to be some type of sweet but a sandwich also works!
According to a report known as the Fikarapporten (Fika Report), on average, Sweden spends 9.5 days a year on fika, which comes out to be 227 hours per year. Fika is also a part of work culture, with 60 hours a year or 7.5 working days. Most workplaces also have it built into their work days called fikarast or fikapaus. During those times, you are expected to stop work and join up for fika; unlike North American culture, where it is sometimes encouraged to work through your breaks, you won’t earn any bonus points for skipping a chance to have fika.
When I was introduced to fika, I was shown a video from a pair of Swedish YouTubers that has over 7 million views. The short music video skit is a great introduction to fika. You can find the video here!
Fika Photo by Tove Freiij/imagebank.sweden.se
Where to fika when in Sweden?
The most popular place to fika is at a konditori/kafé (café). However it is not just limited to indoors! In the summer or when the weather is nice, it is popular to visit a park or even in the woods, thanks to Sweden’s right to public access making it free to fika almost anywhere.
If you find yourself in Gothenburg, I recommend stopping at Café Hebbe Lelle to fika.
What to eat during fika?
Here are my recommendations of some of the best fika pairings!
Cinnamon Buns Photo by Lieselotte van der Meijs/imagebank.sweden.se
- Kanelbullar (cinnamon buns): In contrast to the North American cinnamon bun, which is covered in icing, the kanelbulle is covered with beads of pearl sugar.
Chocolate Balls Photo by Lieselotte van der Meijs/imagebank.sweden.se
- Chokladbollar (chocolate balls): These chocolate balls coated with shredded coconut are a favourite for all ages!
Cookies Photo by Joel Wåreus/imagebank.sweden.se
- Småkakor (small cookies): Småkakor is a general term for cookies that made with lots of butter and can be eaten in a couple bites.
Strawberry Cake Photo by Alexander Hall/imagebank.sweden.se
- Jordgubbstårta (strawberry cake) : This pairing is usually popular for a midsommar (midsummer) fika.
How can you recreate fika at home?
Whether you are at work or studying at school, schedule a time to take a break after you have started or near the end of the day. Invite your roommates or coworkers to join you! Get yourself a drink and some snacks, and enjoy your fika. Resist the urge to look at your phone or check your emails; this is time to give yourself a chance to relax and take a break!
Useful Swedish words or phrases for fika
- fikabröd – coffee break pastry
- dammsugare – vacuum cleaner (This refers to not an actual vacuum cleaner! But a green marzipan rolls, shaped like cylinder vacuum cleaners)
- Ska vi gå och ta en fika ? – Should we go and have a fika?
- En kopp caffe, tack! – A cup of coffee, please!
Want to learn more about fika?
The Little Book of Fika: The Uplifting Daily Ritual of the Swedish Coffee Break
$11.99 chapters.indigo.ca
Fika: The Art of the Swedish Coffee Break, with Recipes for Pastries, Breads, and Other Treats
$20.99 chapters.indigo.ca
The Scandinavian Guide to Happiness: The Nordic Art of Happy & Healthy Living With Fika, Lagom & Hygge
$19.95 chapters.indigo.ca
Fika That!: The Swedish Secret to Coffee, Caring and Connection
$34.95 chapters.indigo.ca
*This blog doesn’t benefit from commissions to the recommended books, the author just enjoys books*
