Labelled as a ‘champagne and cocktail bar’, Bistro Jarl in fact operates as a sedate and classic restaurant, attracting a mish-mash of businessmen and young Östermalm socialites sipping champagne. The bar at the far end offers succour to the inevitable tourist seeking sustenance after excessive spending two doors down in Gucci.
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rnOwing to its central position the prices are substantial, but then you are just two minutes from the trendiest bars or a romantic waterfront stroll. The weekday atmosphere is somewhat sober, but there’s a definite buzz come the weekend. The specialities of the menu vary, but you’ll find an eternally extravagant theme: foie gras, carpaccio or an elaborate bavaroise with arctic raspberries.
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rnThe interior is equally ornate, with greens and golds, pillars and painted wood, chandeliers and champagne bottles stacked in mirrored cabinets. Reserve a table on Fridays and Saturdays and settle in, or eat early and nip across to Riche opposite for more boisterous adventures.