What is a Julbord?

 

A traditional Swedish Julbord or "Christmas table" is one of our favorite things to do during the Christmas Season in Sweden.

We have been to a few Julbords since living in Sweden, but missed it during the Pandemic.

A Julbord or "Christmas buffet" is usually something you need to book ahead of time. Many of the restaurants in the city will start advertising Julbord dates in mid-November. It's something, you enjoy with your coworkers (office Christmas party) or with your family/friends. 

When you line up to enter the restaurant, you can often warm up with some "Glögg" or mulled wine (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) then you're invited indoors and head over to your table. 

Remember, it's a buffet so you choose what you'd like to eat. I was told that normally you take food 4 times. You start with the Fish, like the pickled herring. Then move to the Cold cuts, various meats, Swedish cheeses, and Swedish crackers. Afterwards, you continue with the hot food like the baked salmon, ribs, and Jansson's Frestelse (creamy potato casserole).

And finally you take your dessert choosing from pudding, candy, cookies, pastries or cakes. Since it's a buffet, you can actually go as often as you like. I go a few more times because I take for the kids first so they can occupy themselves eating while I select my own food. This works out quite well especially if they are happy with the food.

There is a lot of food at the Julbord, so if you have allergies or dietary restrictions it shouldn't be a problem, but always mention to the staff when you arrive since the items ingredients might not be marked. 

During the Pandemic, there was a takeaway Julbord bag at several restaurants instead to be more "Covid-safe". It was nice to still have the traditional meal items from the comfort of your home.

If you are going to a Julbord and this is your first Julbord experience, don't forget to also talk to the staff, so you don't miss out on anything!

Enjoy the countdown to Christmas!

Don't forget your snacks!