The Nobis Stockholm lies in the vibrant centre of Norrmalmstorg, surrounded by iconic landmarks and luxury stores such as Prada, Gucci, Chanel, and renowned Swedish brand Acne Studios.
Just a stone's throw away, you’ll find the Royal Swedish Opera, the National Museum, and the picturesque Kungsträdgården park, perfect for a stroll. The hotel itself is a masterpiece of contemporary elegance, however, inside there is one place offering an unparalleled imbibing experience that outshines every bar in the city - The Gold Bar.
The hotel itself has an interesting history particularly with the infamous Stockholm syndrome phenomenon. 51 years ago, on a summer day in August 1973, a dramatic scene unfolded at the Kreditbanken in Norrmalmstorg. Jan Erik Olsson, a bank robber, stormed into the Svenska Kreditbanken, fired a gun at the ceiling, and took four bank employees hostage—three women and one man. The gripping standoff lasted nearly six days, capturing worldwide attention as negotiations and ransom attempts failed. The ordeal concluded when police drilled holes in the bank vault's roof and released gas, forcing Olsson to surrender. Remarkably, the hostages began to sympathise with their captor, leading to the term "Stockholm syndrome."
Today, visitors of the hotel can still see the boreholes made by the police during the rescue operation, serving as a poignant reminder of the building's unique past. This blend of intriguing history and luxurious modernity gave us a little excitement when we were invited to try the new cocktail menu near those very boreholes.
The interiors of the hotel and bar exude chic Scandinavian design, seamlessly blending modern luxury with timeless sophistication. Every detail is meticulously crafted, ensuring that each moment spent here is both memorable and enchanting.
The atrium is astounding, reminiscent of a scene from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet blended with the surrealism of a Salvador Dali painting. Light pours through circular stained glass roofs, casting a magical glow over Juliet balconies and spiral staircases. The interior design studio (Claesson Koivisto Rune) has masterfully created a sub-reality or fairytale atmosphere while anchoring it firmly in the 21st century with modern touches, including a pixelated view of a forest canopy and a striking portrait of actor Zac Efron. One can't help but wonder if Zac himself has seen this masterpiece.
Adding a final touch of glamour and opulence is the magnificent 22-foot squid-shaped chandelier, crafted from a thousand pieces of vintage Orrefors crystal.
The walls, adorned with an abundance of mirrors, reflect a Nordic winter colour palette, amplifying the room's elegance. Luxurious, plush sofas, stylish Bauhaus-inspired chairs, and a diverse array of cacti complete the space, resulting in an unforgettable blend of timeless sophistication and contemporary charm.
Now, let’s get to the drinks! The menu is extensive, so we opted for a tasting selection. We highly recommend ordering snacks as well, as the cocktails go down far too easily.
We began our journey with a sophisticated twist on a classic cocktail tailored for the discerning gentleman—the Old Fashioned, reimagined with a distinctive flair. Gold Bar’s King of Sand promises to captivate even the most meticulous connoisseur.
By blending luxurious truffles with the bold complexity of Highland Park 12, the smooth richness of Maker’s Mark, the aromatic depth of Fernet Branca, the exotic sweetness of Falernum, and the intricate notes of bitters, this drink delivers a masterfully balanced yet invigorating twist on the timeless classic. It is sure to captivate and impress even the most discerning and refined palate.
Next up is the charming and palate-refreshing Nobelino Sgroppino, featuring a delightful twist. This cocktail combines the floral notes of Elderflower Liqueur with the effervescent sparkle of Moët Chandon Garden Spritz and is elegantly topped with a scoop of the sorbet of the day - in our case raspberry. It’s the perfect choice for sun-drenched summer days and those who revel in the refined luxury of champagne.
Lastly, we highly recommend the exquisite Badadan Strawberry Rum Negroni. This delightful concoction blends the rich, tropical notes of Caribbean Rum with luscious strawberries, creating a vibrant and refreshing experience. Enhanced with Mancino Bianco Vermouth, Amaro Montenegro, and Vetz Aperitivo, it offers a beautifully balanced complexity. The addition of Verjus and a touch of chocolate bitters further elevates this cocktail, delivering a decadent and unforgettable finish.
With so many enticing options, whether you’re seeking a refreshing aperitif after a day of retail therapy or looking to unwind with your special someone, Gold Bar is the perfect spot for a touch of Swedish indulgence.
For more information visit HERE
Gold Bar (Guldbaren) at Nobis Hotel Stockholm
Adress: Norrmalmstorg 2-4, 111 46 Stockholm, Sweden
Phone: +46 8 614 10 00
Words by Jheanelle Feanny
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