What is Swedish Fika?

Before I moved to Sweden, I didn't know the Swedish term, Fika. It was only after I arrived in Sweden, that I learned about it from SFI class (Free Swedish language lessons offered to immigrants) and from friends. 

Fika (pronounced fee-ka) is a Swedish tradition and can be seen simply as a coffee break but with a sweet treat. Everyone understands and needs coffee breaks. We often go for coffee/tea with friends in North America too.

Some sweet treats that accompany Fika are called "Fikabröd". 

A specific day for a fika can be called by the name of the day followed by "Fika" like for example, "Fredagsfika" or "Friday fika". You can also use it like a verb, for example,  You can fika with friends at a cafe or someone's home. One can say, "Ska vi fika?" or "Shall we fika?" 

What's nice about sitting in a cafe or restaurant in Sweden and in other parts of Europe is, they don't rush you out of the place. You can sit as long as you like. I feel like in North America, there's always a time limit or servers in restaurants constantly need to "check" on you. They may be trying to get a better tip, but it makes the restaurant experience less relaxing. 

Ok back to Fika. A Work Fika is a common thing here in Sweden. It could be a daily occurrence or a once a week event when there is Fika at the office. You aren't required to join, but if you don't join the Fika, it might seem a bit disrespectful. The same as eating lunch at your computer screen - this doesn't happen often here.

Fika is a part of Swedish culture and Swedes also enjoy coffee and drink a lot of it. 

So whether you are living in Sweden or just visiting, make sure you take the time to Fika at least once a day. There are plenty of cafes to try!

Don't forget the snacks!

Here are some cafes to try in Stockholm