TL;DR
Oaxen, a waterfront gem on Djurgården, offers a unique Nordic bistro experience with a captivating nautical theme. Dive into innovative dishes like the expertly prepared Wild Duck from Ornö and delicate Arctic char, complemented by thoughtful wine pairings. While the Jerusalem artichoke gratin didn't quite hit the mark, the overall ambiance, attentive service, and standout sides like grilled broccoli make for an exceptional meal. Ready to explore this Stockholm culinary delight? Read the full review for all the delicious details!
We arrived at Oaxen, situated on Djurgården at Beckholmsvägen 21. The location is particularly appealing during the summer months, offering an outdoor terrace with views of the waterfront and Gröna Lund. The restaurant’s interior features open spaces and high ceilings. Tables are upholstered in rust-brown leather, and overhead, recreational boats and rowboats are suspended, immediately establishing a nautical ambiance.
Oaxen Slip. Photo: senses.seThe menu presents a range of compelling options. Guests can opt for the multi-course tasting menus (6-10 courses at Oaxen Krog) or select smaller plates at Oaxen Slip, the restaurant’s more casual bistro. The kitchen offers interpretations of Nordic bistro cuisine, with dishes exhibiting considerable culinary innovation.
Based on our server’s recommendation, we chose the Wild Duck from Ornö (with the caveat that it may contain buckshot), grilled breast & thigh ragout with pumpkin & ginger-pickled chanterelles (215 SEK), and oven-grilled Arctic char from Piteå (170 SEK). For side dishes, we selected grilled broccoli with onion vinaigrette & roasted, grated Dura cheese (50 SEK), pumpkin mash with pickled pumpkin & roasted garlic, Jerusalem artichoke gratin with Västerbotten cheese (60 SEK), and smoked mayonnaise (25 SEK). When we considered ordering additional sides, the waiter advised against it, assuring us that our existing selections would be sufficient.
Wild Duck from Ornö. Photo: senses.seThe sommelier recommended an aged, red wine from 2001, Bressan No 3 (described as a mature wine), a French blend of schioppettino, cabernet sauvignon, and pinot noir. The wine exhibited notes reminiscent of a light port, with a pronounced oak character. While not ideally suited for casual drinking, it proved to be an excellent complement to the Wild Duck from Ornö, which was expertly prepared and flavorful.
For the Arctic char from Piteå, a white Riesling, C.A.I, was suggested, providing a crisp and refreshing counterpoint. The fish possessed a delicate texture and offered a clean, buttery taste. Among the side dishes, the pumpkin and grilled broccoli were particularly noteworthy. The Jerusalem artichoke with Västerbotten cheese, however, seemed slightly undercooked and retained a hint of raw potato flavor.
Oven-grilled Arctic char from Piteå. Photo: senses.se
Oaxen offers a pleasant ambiance, characterized by a comfortable noise level and subdued lighting. The attentive and knowledgeable staff further enhanced the dining experience. Overall, the meal was exceptional, and we would gladly return.
Photo: senses.se
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How we rate products at SensesReview Highlights: Q&A
Where is Oaxen located and what is the atmosphere like?
Oaxen is located at Beckholmsvägen 21 on Djurgården. It features an outdoor terrace with views of the waterfront and Gröna Lund, high ceilings, rust-brown leather tables, suspended recreational boats, subdued lighting, and a comfortable noise level.
What dining options and menus are offered?
Guests can choose 6 to 10-course multi-course tasting menus at Oaxen Krog or order smaller plates of Nordic bistro cuisine at Oaxen Slip, the more casual bistro.
How are the main dishes prepared and priced?
The Wild Duck from Ornö costs 215 SEK and includes grilled breast, thigh ragout, pumpkin, and ginger-pickled chanterelles. The oven-grilled Arctic char from Piteå costs 170 SEK and offers a delicate texture with a clean, buttery taste.
Which side dishes are available?
Side options include grilled broccoli with onion vinaigrette and Dura cheese for 50 SEK, pumpkin mash with pickled pumpkin and roasted garlic, smoked mayonnaise for 25 SEK, and Jerusalem artichoke gratin with Västerbotten cheese for 60 SEK.
