Social media strategist Melody Tan, also known as @meowiie on Instagram, moved to Stockholm to be with her Swedish partner after maintaining their relationship long‑distance for four years. Here, she shares her insider tips for exploring the city
Singaporean social media strategist and digital creator Melody Tan moved to Stockholm to close the distance with her long-term partner. She shares her favourite Swedish brands (Tan has impeccable style, FYI), favourite restaurants and cafes, as well as hidden spots for first-time visitors.
The best thing about Stockholm is…
The quality of life. The Swedish value life, family and friendship over work, creating a wonderful balance. This concept is called lagom in Swedish, meaning everything in moderation.
My favourite restaurants are…
Tennstopet, for classic Swedish fare, and Miyakodori, which was opened by ex‑Frantzén chefs and serves delicious yakitori.
My favorite Swedish fashion brand is...
Totême. I’ve always admired creative director Elin Kling’s impeccable sense of style. Totême is about building the most classic wardrobe with timeless pieces that will last a lifetime.
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Above The Totême store
A great spot for coffee is...
Lillebrors Bageri. It’s more of a bakery, but the coffee’s great and the buns are fantastic. The best in the city if you ask me.
My favorite restaurants are...
Tennstopet for classic Swedish fare, and Miyakodori, which serves delicious yakitori. I’m a huge Asian food lover, and Miyakodori, opened by ex-Frantzén chefs, is currently my go-to spot.
A hidden gem worth exploring is...
Carl Eldh's Ateljémuseum. Tucked away in the tranquil Bellevue Park, this small yet charming museum is dedicated to the works of one of Sweden’s most prominent sculptors, Carl Eldh. The museum is set in his former studio, filled with beautiful sculptures and offering an intimate glimpse into his artistic world. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll, especially on a summer day when the surrounding park is in full bloom. This little haven combines art, history, and nature in the most delightful way.

Above The food at Miyakadori
Above Tennstopet, which serves classic Swedish food
My go‑to for an art fix is…
Moderna Museet, which has an excellent selection of modern and contemporary art. Opened in 1958, it’s a gorgeous museum to visit any time of the year.
I always take friends visiting from out of town to...
Ulriksdal Castle, just a short trip outside of Stockholm. This stunning royal residence is nestled in beautiful gardens by the shores of Edsviken Lake, offering a serene escape from the city. The castle grounds are perfect for a leisurely stroll, with lush greenery, historic buildings, and even a charming orangery café to enjoy.
My favorite memory of Stockholm so far is...
Foraging for mushrooms in the Fall. Just on the outskirts of the city, sometime in September and October its always chanterelle season! We would spend a weekend picking chanterelles in the forest, and the last time we did, we managed to pick 16 kilos. We then cook a huge feast with the mushrooms and dehydrate them so we have mushrooms to eat all year around.

Above Ulriksdal Palace

Above The mushrooms foraged by Tan
First‑timers in Stockholm should...
Walk! Stockholm is an incredibly walkable city and it’s beautiful in every season. Known as the “Venice of the North”, it has a unique layout that makes walking the best way to explore its charm, from the historic Gamla Stan to the trendy Södermalm district.
A secret spot I regularly visit is...
Any of the Myrorna stores. They’re essentially charity shops, and I love hunting through the shelves for secondhand finds. I’ve discovered some amazing vintage pieces at Myrorna locations all over Stockholm that I’ll cherish forever.

Above Melody Tan
The best way to spend a day is...
Visiting a saluhall (food market). My favorite is Östermalms Saluhall. It’s a bustling spot filled with vendors and restaurants. Enjoy fresh shellfish, sip on schnapps (herbal liquor), and then spend the evening bar hopping around the city. Don’t miss having a martini at the Grand Hotel.
One of the things I love most about this city, and Sweden in general, is...
How much Swedish people love to celebrate. From Midsummer, which marks the longest day of the year, to crayfish parties where we sing songs about crayfish, there’s always a reason to gather and enjoy life. Sweden is rich in traditions, and these celebrations—whether big or small—bring people together in the most joyful way.
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Above A crayfish party; just one of the ways Swedish people love to celebrate
Credits
Images: Melody Tan




