in Rydöbruk, Sweden

Knystaforsen is a restaurant that immediately defies expectations. At first, we thought it would be in the middle of nowhere. Technically, it is in the woods, but surprisingly close to a golf field—though still far enough from any major city, with Gothenburg about 140 kilometers away. The setting balances seclusion with accessibility, offering an experience that feels both intimate and adventurous.

Upon arrival, a fire burns outside, setting the tone for the evening. Guests are welcomed by chef Nicolai Tram himself, a personal touch that makes the experience feel warm and inviting. Nicolai, originally from Denmark, has honed his skills in esteemed kitchens but chose a different path, embracing elemental cooking in a way that celebrates nature and tradition. His passion for open-fire techniques is evident in every detail of Knystaforsen.

Stepping into the restaurant, the scent of burning wood fills the air, reinforcing the rustic cabin-like atmosphere. This feeling is genuine—the space was once a cabin, and it still holds onto that charm, offering breathtaking views of the garden and the river that runs alongside it. The former sawmill has transformed into a dining destination where history and nature merge seamlessly.

For dining, simplicity reigns—there is only one menu, and guests experience what is prepared with no deviations. Every dish connects to fire, with at least some element of each course cooked over open flames outside the restaurant. The storytelling aspect is woven into the meal, as each plate comes with a small slip of paper added to the menu, allowing guests to track the journey of their dining experience course by course.

At one point in the evening, diners are invited to step outside, where they are shown the fire where their food is cooked. Standing around the flames, the team explains their methods, deepening the connection between ingredients and preparation. A short walk leads to an open firepit, where another small course is served under the night sky. The chef joins in, fostering conversation in what feels like an orchestrated, but still intriguing, part of the experience.

The flavors throughout the evening maintain a distinct “burned” essence, carefully balanced to avoid becoming overwhelming. This approach highlights the restaurant’s promise—“cooking on fire”—delivering an experience that is immersive, raw, and unmistakably Swedish.

Knystaforsen is not just a place to have dinner; it is an evening-long exploration of culinary craftsmanship, nature, and tradition. It offers something beyond a meal—an opportunity to engage with food in a way that feels elemental and deeply rooted in history.

Chef: Nicolai Tram
Date of visit: October 4th 2024
Website: https://knystaforsen.se
Michelin: 1 star