No one (with the possible exception of Seattleites) takes their coffee and coffee breaks as serious as the Scandinavians. Perhaps it’s because of the long, dark winters … or maybe it’s simply an enviable cultural mentality that privileges relaxation in the company of friends (Scandinavian countries also provide more paid vacation and longer paid maternity leaves than other nations).
Whatever the reason, part of the daily ritual, especially in Sweden, is to fika, “go out for coffee,” every two hours or so. It allows one to connect positively (no shop talk allowed!) with colleagues and friends and to recharge before continuing with the day’s work responsibilities. People will generally leave the office to meet together at a café, where they’ll order light snacks to accompany their coffee. Popular favorites include cinnamon rolls (kanelbullar), apple-sauce buns (äppelmosbullar), rusks, and savory wheat breads (vetebröd).
Even if you can’t leave your building for an extended coffee break, trying preparing one of the following fika foods over the weekend to take in to share with your colleagues. They’re guaranteed to lead to a raise … in spirit!
