Bistrån — Restaurant in Uppsala kommun

We were visiting Uppsala from the UK and Bistran was one of the restaurants we ate at during our stay.

The restaurant sits slightly outside of the centre, but easily walkable. You can walk the length of the river to arrive opposite the restaurant - in the evening in November it was very tranquil and leisurely.

As you enter the restaurant you are greeted by an intimate space and delicate music playing. The bar is set out in front of you when you arrive, and you can just see the back-lit kitchen pass if you look for it. The tables are set apart perfectly so that you can enjoy your own company, but the ambient chit-chat of other diners is pleasant background.

The service, during our evening at least, was one woman. She was terrific - attentive and well informed in respect of the wine selection particularly. Throughout the evening she also provided some welcome local trivia and recommendations for other parts of Sweden.

The menu is that of a straight-forward bistro; quality is the focus. The venison was cooked perfectly and accompanied by perfectly cooked garnish. Likewise the Arctic Char was perfect. Neither of us could find fault. The desserts - chocolate fondant and creme brulé - were both flawless. The wine selection was extensive, and included options not on the menu (I enjoyed the best red wine I've had in some years).

The chef, Layla, is running the kitchen alone (insofar as we could tell). There is a small wait for the food, but it is more than worth it and if needs be you can order small sides - bread, olives - if you are unable to wait. This is by no means a criticism. We enjoyed two courses and two glasses of wine for a very reasonable price.

Needless to say, we enjoyed our evening at Bistran immensely and will be prioritising our next visit when we return to Uppsala. I would implore and insist that anybody visiting, living in, or even passing through Uppsala...

This is a little bistro at the far end of the river, just by where they are building the new bridge.

It's relaxing and rather calm during the evening when we were there. The veal meatballs were delicious, especially paired with the potato pure, cucumber and berries. Everything practically melted in the mouth. Some in the group had wanted a little more texture, while others enjoyed it. The burgers were not that impressive but reminded us of the typical big patty pub burgers...

Absolutely perfect ! Amazing food, friendly people, warm & cozy atmosphere, stays open very late and makes you feel welcome, great music too.

Thank you Leila for the evening and the funny stories, I will come back as...