In the tranquil beauty of small Hyltebruk, Sweden lies a little place called Knystaforsen, a restaurant that transcends the typical dining experience, offering something truly unique and profound. Located in an old sawmill by a rippling river, and surrounded by pristine forests, Knystaforsen is not just a place to eat—it’s a place to feel at home. And there truly is something magical happening here.
The restaurant’s origin story is as charming as its setting. Knystaforsen’s founders, the Danish couple Nicolai and Eva Tram, stumbled upon a small red house by the river when ideas quickly began emerging. This would be their foundation for their passion of culinary experiences over open-fire.
The couple have since transformed it into a warm and welcoming retreat. Their philosophy is simple: treat guests like family. This ethos permeates every aspect of the dining experience, from the intimate, home-like atmosphere to the personal touch in the service.
The Trams have taken their vision a step further by embracing the wild nature around them. Although they have a modern kitchen, they prefer cooking outdoors, over flames and embers. This method is as much about the sensory experience of open-fire cooking as it is about the meal itself. It’s about camaraderie around a campfire, the thrill of unhurried preparation, and the primal joy of cooking with fire—a technique that feeds both the body and the soul and kept us alive for thousands of years.
Knystaforsen offers a terroir-driven tasting menu that celebrates the wild nature of its surroundings. It becomes evidently clear that guests are close to nature given the tranquilzing sound of the rippling water running in the river just outside. And boy the dishes are clever!
Over the course of the evening, guests are taken on a culinary journey that showcases the best of what the region has to offer. Courses are served on different locations in the restaurant, depending on the setting, ensuring an guests aren’t too stationary and to emphasize the actual journey they’re on. Ingredients are sourced from the rivers and lakes, foraged from the surrounding forests, and procured from local purveyors who share the restaurant’s commitment to quality and sustainability.
The menu is paired with a carefully curated selection of Nordic and European beverages, including hand-selected wines and non-alcoholic options brewed in-house or by friends of the restaurant. These pairings are designed to complement the flavors of the dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Despite the sophistication of the food, Knystaforsen remains a casual and relaxed place. The Trams insist that there aren’t many rules at Knystaforsen—just one: ensuring that every guest feels at home. This informal yet attentive approach to hospitality is a key part of what makes dining at Knystaforsen so special. It’s a place where you can unwind, enjoy great food, and connect with the people and the nature around you. For guests traveling from afar there is also the option of staying the night in one of restaurant’s overnight accommodations.
Knystaforsen in Hyltebruk is more than just a restaurant—it’s a celebration of the Scandinavian wilderness, a tribute to the art of open-fire cooking, and a place where guests are treated like family. This is one of those places that nourishes your soul.
For those who appreciate the connection between food, nature, and community, a visit to Knystaforsen is not just recommended—it’s essential.
