If you’re a travelling foodie and you happen to be in Stockholm, a stop at Saluhallen Market in the hip Ostermalm neighbourhood (or Östermalm, which is the proper Swedish spelling) will be a highlight of your visit. Fish, meats, vegetables, cheese… a veritable fresh food feast – all locally grown and responsibly sourced. It’s all about slow food in Stockholm.

This may look like a fortress, but don’t be deceived. Since its opening in 1888, Ostermalms Saluhall has been a food lover’s nirvana. It has also been a place to observe Scandinavian egalitarianism in practice. Chefs from the Royal Palace queued with everyone else at the popular stalls.

17 small businesses operate at Ostermalms Saluhall, most have been run by the same family for generations. The vendors are happy to share their extensive knowledge and experience, so go ahead – ask about food preparation, recipes, how to put together a menu…

Ostermalms Saluhall has been named the world’s seventh best food market by the award-winning Bon Appétit Magazine, in competition with the likes of Tokyo and Budapest. No surprise then, that Jamie Oliver loves it.

Looking through my archives, I see I have given very little attention to Norway’s eastern neighbour. Only right then, that I’ll be joining my friend Laurel’s Food Friday with this Swedish treat.