About IKEA’s Swedish Restaurant in Guadalajara
Seven months after its opening in Guadalajara, IKEA’s third store in Mexico has gained popularity through its Swedish restaurant, shared Clarisa Terrazas, the restaurant’s manager with El Economista.
The dining area can accommodate up to 700 diners, making it the largest in the city. Terrazas clarified that this number represents a high turnover rate rather than a constant 700 guests.
Midsommar Celebration: A Swedish Summer Solstice Tradition
On June 20th, IKEA will celebrate the arrival of summer with a special “Midsommar buffet,” honoring the second most important Swedish festivity after Christmas. According to Julio Orozco, IKEA Guadalajara’s Marketing and Communications Manager, the significance of Midsommar lies in the long winter months with short days and low temperatures, where summer symbolizes triumph over darkness.
Authentic Swedish Culinary Experience
The culinary experience will feature traditional Scandinavian dishes designed to transport diners to Sweden, including:
- Asparagus salad with anise hyacinth root
- Fettuccine with cheese sauce
- Surströmming (pickled herring with sprats)
- Salmon
- Roast turkey
- Potato purée
- Cauliflower risotto
- Wild berry jam
- A selection of seasonal desserts, including a Mexican-inspired corn bread
Terrazas highlighted the use of dill, a popular herb in Sweden for marinating and preserving foods. She also mentioned traditional Swedish meatballs, which will be served alongside a fusion of Mexican and Swedish elements.
Midsommar Traditions and Expectations
In addition to the food, attendees can expect other Swedish traditions such as flower crown-making. Terrazas anticipates a turnout of approximately 1,000 people for this celebration of Midsommar.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the significance of Midsommar in Sweden? Midsommar, celebrated on the summer solstice, is the second most important festivity in Sweden after Christmas. It symbolizes triumph over long winter months with short days and low temperatures.
- How many people can the Swedish restaurant accommodate? The restaurant has a capacity for 700 diners, although this number represents high turnover rather than constant occupancy.
- What type of Swedish dishes will be served during Midsommar? The menu includes traditional Scandinavian dishes such as asparagus salad with anise hyacinth root, fettuccine with cheese sauce, surströmming (pickled herring with sprats), salmon, roast turkey, potato purée, cauliflower risotto, wild berry jam, and a selection of seasonal desserts.
- What other Swedish traditions will be part of the Midsommar celebration? In addition to food, attendees can expect flower crown-making, another important Midsommar tradition.
