FIKA, the Cafe at ASI

 "More than a museum cafe, this bright spot is a serious attempt to integrate local ingredients in dishes that are faithful to the tradition of “fika,” an institution in Sweden." -New York Times

FIKA is the American Swedish Institute's new Nordic-inspired café inside the Nelson Cultural Center.

With the historic Turnblad Mansion in full view, guests dining at FIKA can choose from a seasonally-inspired menu dedicated to regional ingredients and Nordic traditions. From espresso and house made pastries to artful salads and open-face sandwiches, FIKA features traditional Swedish delicacies alongside modern interpretations of the New Nordic Cuisine.

At the café's helm is Chef Michael Fitzgerald, who joins FIKA from such acclaimed Minneapolis institutions as Tilia, Sea Change, Solera and Barrio. Fitzgerald began his decade-long career working with celebrated chef Doug Flicker at the much-loved Auriga, one of the first Minneapolis restaurants to embrace the city's Nordic roots.

In Sweden, fika is a daily break, traditionally involving coffee and treats. In truth, fika is about much more than caffeine and carbohydrates; it's a Swedish social institution, where friends gather to chat about life and current events.

Menu

View our current menu as a pdf here.

Hours

Lunch menu is available 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Tuesday–Saturday and noon until 3 p.m. on Sunday. On Wednesdays, dinner is served from 5 until 7:30 p.m.

FIKA does not take reservations.

Praise for FIKA

"Best Lunch In Minnesota" - Star Tribune (2013)

"Oh, how Swede it is" Star Tribune's Rick Nelson, 9/13/12

"Fika blends tradition with finesse" City Pages review by Emily Weiss, 8/14/12

 "Fika at the American Swedish Institute: A first look" City Pages Hot Dish Blog post by Angharad Guy, 8/2/12

"My Nordic food high: Lunch at the American Swedish Institute's Fika" Twin Cities Daily Planet review by Patrice Johnson, 7/16/12