FIKA, the American Swedish Institute's New Café, Opens July 10

FIKA (fee-kuh), a Nordic-inspired café, will be a part of the American Swedish Institute's new Nelson Cultural Center, opening July 10.

In Sweden, fika is a daily break, traditionally including coffee and treats. But the American Swedish Institute’s FIKA is about more than just caffeine and carbohydrates. From espresso and pastries to seasonally changing salads, open-face sandwiches, small bites, and beer and wine; FIKA will feature traditional Swedish delicacies alongside modern interpretations of New Nordic Cuisine.

Guests at FIKA will choose from a seasonal menu featuring regionally sourced ingredients, guided by Chef Michael Fitzgerald, who joins FIKA from restaurants like Tilia, Sea Change, Solera and Barrio. Fitzgerald started his decade-long career at Auriga working with celebrated chef Doug Flicker.

“I’m excited to reflect the ASI’s contemporary architectural style in the food we will serve at FIKA. The Nordic food movement is an important part of what we’ll do, and our menu will reflect its simple, honest and classic values,” said Michael Fitzgerald, FIKA chef. “Treating the world as a place we live in, rather than own, and doing something for the greater good of the world is very important to me.”

FIKA will be open six days a week, ready with fresh baked goods and coffee at 7 a.m. weekdays (except Mondays), 9 a.m. Saturdays and noon on Sundays. Always open for lunch, FIKA will be open for dinner and dessert until 8 p.m. on Wednesday evenings beginning in July.