Absolut invite 2013 | Guide to Stokcholm

ABSOLUT INVITE 2013FINDING THE EXCEPTIONAL IN ABSOLUT LAND

BE INSPIREDBE EXCEPTIONAL

ABSOLUT VODKA is one of the most recognized brands in the world, much due to the company’s love for art. Over the years ABSOLUT VODKA has commissioned not only over 300 painters, but leading artists in all fields, including sculptors, glass designers, musicians and fashion designers to work with the famous bottle.

ABSOLUT VODKA is made from 100% natural ingre-dients, including locally grown winter wheat. It is a smooth beverage, which accentuates any cocktail without disappearing into the mix. ABSOLUT VODKA is one of the most popular spirit brands in the world. And yet, every single drop of ABSOLUT VODKA comes from one source - Åhus in southern Sweden.

Dear Participant,Welcome to our beautiful city of Stockholm, also known as the “Venice of the North” according to its unique location among a cluster of islands - otherwise known as the archipelago. It was on one of these islands, over one hundred years ago, that the tale of ABSOLUT VODKA began. Welcome to a weekend of festivities, inspiration and a great chance to meet new and like-minded people. Apart from the design hotels, cracking dinners, royal brunches, and the possible head-ache that you might end up with along the way, we aim to leave you with fond memories that will last you a lifetime, ones that will bring a smile to your face for years to come.

We’re still far from deciding a winner but to be honest we already consider you a champion, as you have already proven that you proudly carry the torch and a burning desire to master both the craft and the creativity that is vital within this trade.

The following booklet will help you navigate your way around the city over the weekend. It aims to provide you with local tips on enchanting trails that Stockholm has to offer and to provide you with some suggestions that we hope will help you survive ABSOLUT INVITE 2013! Please keep in mind that this booklet is a guide that we hope you can use again, because, let’s face it, unless you have some sort of superhuman skills, you will not have a chance to check out all the great spots we’ve highlighted here over one weekend!

But most of all we wish you the best of luck at ABSOLUT INVITE 2013 and hopefully YOU will be the one who pulls it off so that YOU may be the one boarding that flight to where it all began - New Orleans!

Laura JärnefeltNordic Marketing Manager / ABSOLUT

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Important times and addressesGetting aroundIntroduction to StockholmGamla Stan/Skeppsholmen City/NorrmalmVasastanÖstermalmKungsholmenSödermalmArchipelagoThe ArtsKnow your enemyIndex Notes

absolut inviteBe Inspired Be Exceptional

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ImportantHi there! By the time you read this, you will probably have tried out the bed to see how comfortable it is, squeezed the pillows and counted how many channels there are on your telly. Now, there are a few important am’s and pm’s that we would like you to keep a close eye on over the course of this fabulous weekend. Please do your best to pay attention to these to ensure a smooth and problem-free weekend for everyone. Thanks!

So, at this stage we hope that you have some time to kick back and enjoy your grand room.

13.00 Assembly down in the lobby where the bus will leave for ABSOLUT ATELIER, the home of ABSOLUT VODKA.

14.00 Gathering at ATELIER for presentation of the venue and the forthcom-ing ABSOLUT INVITE tussles.

14.30 Competition commences, starting with the drink challenge. At ABSOLUT ATELIER we will provide you with the most basic ingredients & materials. A list of what we will provide can be found in the Q & A section. (Creative mixing is the only part of the competition on Day 1)

19.30 The mixing challenge will finish at about 19.30, after which we will escort you back to the hotel where you can dust off the remaining competi-tion nerves and slip into something more fancy. Then we are off to dinner!

21.15 Assembly down in the lobby, where the bus will take us nearly as far as the dinner table.

21.30 Dinner!

23.30 For those of you who wish to continue on into the tempting Stock-holm night, you are free to go, but on your own authority. Remember, tomorrow is a big day and it could be worthwhile not making this night a big one – don’t worry! There will be plenty of time for that tomorrow!

friday • march 1st

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SundayMa r ch 3rd

We will have an early start on Day 2 so we suggest that you don’t have a very late night on Friday.

10.00 Brunch and lecture by Nick Strangeway at the hotel from 10 o’clock sharp!

12.00 Competition kicks off at the hotel. On Day 2 the challenges will be based on sensory, knowledge and the ability to work as a team. You will be on the move for the next few hours, so be prepared to shoot off at any moment – and bring a warm jacket.

17.00 At this stage we hope you will have made it back to where you started i.e. the Berns hotel. Feel free to mingle among yourselves or take a break in your room.

18.45 The bus will collect you and take you to the SPRITMUSEUM (Mu-seum of Spirits) for a tour of the ABSOLUT art exhibition, followed by the award ceremony and dinner. After that, the night is your oyster!

saturday • march 2nd

For your convenience on Sunday we have planned a late checkout. After that, and depending on your departure times, you will have the opportunity to discover the city. For tips and recom mendations, have a look in this booklet or just grab a hold of your closest ABSOLUT representative.

sunday • march 3rd

BERNS HOTELNäckströmsgatan 8. Subway Station - Östermalmstorg / T-CentralenPhone +46 (0) 8 566 322 00berns.se

ABSOLUT ATELIER Drottningatan 4. Subway Station - T-CentralenPhone: +46 (0) 8 744 71 01

MIKAEL TRYGG Brand Ambassador at Pernod Ricard Sweden.Phone: +46 (0) 70 870 53 03

addresses & phone numbers

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Getting around

Stockholm loves visitors, and SL, Stockholm Public Transport, is the convenient way to travel when exploring the capital of Sweden.

The Journey Planner helps you find the quickest route between two addresses or stations. It will make it easier for you to find your way around the City and the County of Stockholm. You will find it on mobil.sl.se.

You buy your travelcard passes and single tickets /pre-paid single tickets in advance from ticket machines, at SL Centers or ticket agents, such as 7-eleven and Pressbyrån.

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T18

T19

T17

T14

T13

T18

T17

T19

T11

T10

T11

T10

T14

T13

Hötorget

S:t EriksplanOdenplan

Fridhemsplan

Rådmansgatan

Huvudsta

Västra skogen

Stadshagen

Vreten

Sundbybergs centrum

Duvbo

Rissne

Rinkeby

Tensta

Solna centrum

Näckrosen

Hallonbergen

Kista

Husby

Akalla

Hjulsta

Örnsberg

Hornstull

Zinkensdamm

Mariatorget

Telefonplan

Midsom

markransen

Aspudden

Hässelby strand

Stora mossen

Alvik

Brommaplan

Åkeshov

Ängbyplan

Islandstorget

Blackeberg

Råcksta

Vällingby

Johannelund

Hässelby gård

Abrahamsberg

Thorildsplan

Rådhuset

KristinebergLiljeholmen

Alby

Hallunda

Mälarhöjden

Bredäng

Sätra

Skärholm

en

Vårberg

Vårby gård

Masm

o

Fittja

FruängenN

orsborg

Axelsberg

Västertorp

Hägerstensåsen

Österm

almstorg

T-C

entralen

Gärdet

Karlaplan

Kungs-

trädgården

Gam

la stan

Slussen

Medborgarplatsen

Skanstull

Gullm

arsplan

Skärm

arbrink

Blåsut

Sandsborg

Skogskyrkogården

Tallkrogen

Gubbängen

Hökarängen

Farsta

Farsta strand

Stadion

Tekniska högskolan

Universitetet

Bergsham

ra

Danderyds sjukhus

Enskede

gårdS

ockenplan

Svedm

yra

Stureby

Bandhagen

Högdalen

Rågsved

Globen

Ham

marbyhöjden

Björkhagen

Bagarm

ossen

Kärrtorp

Mörby centrum

Ropsten

Hagsätra

Skarpnäck

Alvik

Åkeshov

T1

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Skarpnäck–O

denplan, se tidtabell

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StockholmIt´s true that Stockholmers are naturally reserved and often shy; their lack of effusiveness in greeting strangers can indeed seem rude to vistors, though it is seldom intentional. But Swedes are, in fact, exceptionally polite people. The old joke about Scandinavians using the word ”thanks” 15 times when buying a newspaper holds true in Stockholm.

Stockholmers are extremely proud of their city, although many of the city´s young cultural movers and shakers seem to wish it were more like New York. Locals view international media´s fascination with their stylish capital - Wallpaper Magazine in particular - with anything from eye-rolling disgust to grudging pride.

Although Stockholm is a large city, rural connections are still strong and the summer cottage is almost de rigueur - there are thousands of little red cabins in the archipelago, and anyone who doesn´t have one, at least, has plans for one. And many people exercise their right of common acces to the countryside – this is called allemansrätten – especially during the berry- and mushroom-picking seasons in summer.

Styles of traditional folk dress, known as folkdräkt, vary around the coun-try and may be different in adjacent municipalities. The national version, which can be worn everywhere, was designed in the 20th century. Women wear a white hat, yellow skirt and a blue vest with white flowers over a white blouse. Men wear a simpler costume of knee-length trousers (breeches), white shirt, vest and wide-brimmed hat. Folkdräkt comes out of the cupboard on National Day and Midsummer, and for weddings, feasts, birthdays and church visits.

Queuing by number is a favourite Swedish passtime, and you´ll have to do this in shops, bakeries, some Systembolaget shops (alcohol shops), banks, government offices, police stations, post offices etc. Don´t miss your turn or you´ll have to go back to the end – and don´t even think of jumping the queue unless you want to be frowned at relentlessy.

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The traditional handshake is used liberally in both business and social circles when greeting friends or meeting strangers. In the latter case, cus-tomary introductions will include your full name.

If you´re an informal guest in a Swedish home, particulary in the country-side, it´s polite to remove your shoes before entering the living area; many people habitually carry a pair of house slippers with them when they visit. It´s customary to present your host with a small gift of sweets or flowers on arrival. At meals, avoid sipping your drink before the host or hostess makes the toast, skål, which you should answer in return. This traditional ritual is most frequently accompanied by direct eye contact with whoever offered the toast, symbolising respect.

Two things spring to mind when you think of Swedish cuisine: meatballs (köttbullar) and the Muppets. Of course, there´s a lot more to the food scene in Stockholm than köttbullar and a cracked Swedish chef. It´s true that classic Swedish husmanskost - literally meaning ”plain folks food” - is based on a simply prepared combinations of meat, potatoes and fish. But the restaurant scene, like nearly every other area of Stockholm life, embraces the avant-garde.

You won´t be in Sweden very long before hearing or seeing the word fika, which roughly means to meet friends for coffee and cake in the afternoon. Nearly every museum or tourist attraction in the city has a respectable café so as to prevent the crankiness of fika-deprived vistors.

Stockholmers are a rigorously fashionable bunch, shops insist on display-ing the latest styles as handed down by runway magazines – they simply refuse to carry anything uncool.

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gamla stan & SkeppsholmenThere is no better way to discover the magic of Stockholm’s Old Town and soak up the atmosphere than to walk through the cob-bled streets together with a knowledgeable guide. You’ll learn how Dominican monks used to walk the narrow alleyways, see where the famous poet Lasse “Lucidor” Johansson was killed in a tavern brawl in 1674, and pass one of Stockholm’s most clas-sic artists’ haunts, the restaurant Den Gyldene Freden. Most tours leave from the Obelisk on Slottsbacken outside the Royal Palace. They are available in several languages and cost around SEK 60. Another must see whilst in Gamla Stan is Mårten Trotzig alley which is the narrowest alley in Stockholm. It measures just shy of 90 cm in its narrowest part!

Lilla Nygatan 21. Subway Station - Gamla Stan

Right now, this place is undoubtedly one of Sweden’s most hyped restau-rants, and is also probably the best, having been awarded two Guide Michelin stars and ranked 20th place in San Pellegrino’s World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Casual elegance is how Björn Frantzén and Daniel Lindeberg would describe their eponymous restaurant. Many ingredients are sourced from their own garden, or from local suppliers, with a view to create the most memorable culinary experience for their guests. Right across the street is their newly opened gastro-pub, The Flying Elk, which boasts a truly ambi-tious cocktail bar. This is also the bar where the swedish finalist Madeleine Rapp mixes her libations

frantzén / lindeberg

Brunnsgränd 2. Subway station - Gamla stan

As red as a bar can be! Le Rouge brings you back to times of burlesque shows and sin. With three floors, each equipped with a bar, you should feel right at home. Upstairs is for the party crowd and downstairs for the cocktail connoisseur.

brasserie le rouge

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Stortorget 1. Subway station - Gamla Stan

While in Gamla Stan also take the opportunity to visit Stockholm’s cathe-dral that dates back to the 13th century and is the number one place to get married in Stockholm. It houses a large statue of St. George and the Dragon, which depicts Stockholm’s valiant patron saint saving a princess from the jaws of a dragon. The statue symbolises a 1471 victory over the attacking Danes.

storkyrkan

Blasieholmsgatan 4A. Subway station - Kungsträdgården

Tucked in behind Grand Hotel is popular restaurant B.A.R. or Blasiehol-mens Aquarium & Restaurant. Here you can enjoy oysters and champagne at the bar, pick out your own cuts over the counter or as the name suggests walk up to the huge Aquarium and catch your own live lobster. If you don’t have a reservation make sure you get there early for a seat.

blasieholmen aqvarie restaurang

Skeppsbron 12. Subway station - Gamla stan

Mission: Quality over quantity, and yes this will undoubtedly be your re-action upon entering these ideally located lodgings. Many rooms boast stunning harbour views and breathtaking scenery of Skeppsholmen. Just minutes away from great shopping districts and eateries, but, don’t feel compelled to rush out when there’s a fine restaurant and a great bar, all in one harmonious space! Hotel Reisen also houses an award-winning bar, with Best voted Cocktail List at this years Bartenders’ Choice Awards, as well as being home to last years winner of ABSOLUT INVITE, Magnus Pettersson.

hotel reisen

Stora Nygatan 20. Subway station - Gamla Stan

Pubologi is not a dining room. Pubologi is not a bar. Pubologi is not a traditional pub. Pubologi is simply a hybrid of all three. The food is a mix of classic southern European cuisine, London pub grub and American diner highlighted with a touch of fine dining finesse. They also serve a well selected variety of wine and beer.

pubologi

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#theflyingelk #food #pub

Foto av:

@theflyingelk The Flying Elk ”English breakfast” Seared foie gras, fried egg, veal bacon, white Sorranabeans & maple syrup.http://www.theflyingelk.se/

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Brunnsgränd 2. Subway station - Gamla stan

This award-winnig wine bar is a superb place for wine lovers; with a wide range of wines by the glass the sommeliers easily match the great food. Frequently visited by winemakers for guest appearances and tastings. They even have tastings that evolve into a dinner cooked by oneself, under the supervision of their chef.

19 glas

storkyrkobadet

Svartmangatan 20-22. Subway station - Gamla stan

Whacked from all the impressions and experiences during your visit here in Stockholm, it could be nice to unwind at these soothing and tranquil baths. The baths were opened to the public in 1945 but date all the way back to 1750s, and were managed under the watchful eyes of the ”Svartbrödra-munkarna” , the Monks of the old town.

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Downtown Stockholm is home to several cultural in-stitutions, including the Royal Opera and the Royal Dramatic Theatre, but the area is best known for shopping and entertainment. NK sits at its heart, while restaurants and clubs are clustered around Stureplan. Connecting Norrmalmstorg with Sture-plan is Biblioteksgatan, a pedestrianised street lined with cafés and top-notch shops.

city & Norrmalm

Regeringsgatan 66. Subway station – T-centralen

This manifold award-winning little hideaway bar offers great American din-er fare and British pub grub. Dimly lit as it is inside one is naturally inclined to order a ”stiffie” with a base of something that has been barrel aged. Kåken is also the home bar of first year’s winner of ABSOLUT INVITE.

kåken at niklas

Norrmalmstorg 2. Subway station - Östermalmstorg

Located in an old bank building (and yes this is the actual place where the term “Stockholm Syndrome” was coined back in 1973) this is where creative collection, Acne - not to be mistaken for bad skin - houses their flagship store in Stockholm. When Acne started in 1997 they made one hundred pairs of jeans for friends and family. Nowadays Acne can be found in world metropolis like Paris, Tokyo, London and New York. Dis-creet, but still grand in both attitude and execution, from the marble pillars and spacious fitting rooms, to the elaborate display, this could be what defines modern Swedish design. .

acne

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#cocktails #sazerac #lydmar #heaven #oldfashioned

Foto av:

@kristinwin Manager @ Locatelli Gothenburg, Sweden. Cocktails & Spirits, Fashion, Work, Clubbing, Travels & Friends. Photos taken by me and friends.

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Södra Blasieholmshamnen 2. Subway station - Kungsträdgården

A conceptual hotel of the highest order, yet dynamic and very agreeable with an upper-class living room in giant format with a relaxed vibe. The ex-pression: Cool is brought to a new extreme and the urban touch is evident. Boutique hotel, Art gallery, Bar, café ....and “it” hang out in Stockholm

lydmar hotel

Hamngatan 18-20, Subway station – T-Centaralen

One can’t say that they’ve been shopping in Stockholm until they have visited NK. This enriching department store, opened in1915, houses over 100 different stores and it’s hard to think of anything that NK doesn’t sell. Starting at the top of this exclusive six story building one can find everything from interior design items, to women’s, men’s and children’s wear, to kitchen wear, watches, flowers. One can get a haircut, exchange money, dry clean - the list just goes on and on. The only thing you can’t do is spend the night!

nordiska kompaniet

Crossing of Regeringsgatan/Jakobsbergsgatan. Subway Station - Hötorget

Mood, a lavish shopping gallery in central Stockholm, houses different varieties of small boutiques and an equally lavish selection of restaurants. The gallery offers a wide range of world cuisine - why not try some Spanish Pinxos or tapas at Boqueria, or go for Sichuan at EAT. If its fast food you want, Vigårda BBQ should not disappoint!

mood

Kungsgatan 55. Subway station – Hötorget

This award-winning, old and traditional bakery has existed since 1928. Here you will find a bakery, a small tea room and an open cafeteria. Everything is homemade, including pralines. Rumour has it that it got it’s name from the Swedish slang for “not a clue” when founder, Ester Nord-hammar, responded to the question of what she would call the establish-ment – “Vete-Katten”!

vete-katten

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Birger Jarlsgatan 29. Subway station - Östermalmstorg

Vassa Eggen has since 1999 been one of Sweden’s best gourmet restau-rants. But in early 2009, just before the 10th anniversary, they changed their profile. Tasting menus were removed and now it’s a high-class steak-house. The bar is a Stockholm hotspot and gets packed during after work and weekends.

vassa eggen

Södra Blaiseholmshamnen 2. Subway station - Kungsträdgården

Urban and cosmopolitan, this Catenacci creation well and truly puts Stock-holm on the international map. As their name would suggest, cuisine here is Italian - they even make their own olive oil. Gold Bar at Nobis, where the best-selling drink is The Strawberry Basil Smash, was awarded for Best Cocktail List at the 2011 Bartenders’ Choice Awards.

nobis hotel

Atelier, Drottninggatan 4. Subway station - T-Centralen

Atelier - the home of ABSOLUT vodka. If ABSOLUT were a person, this is what their home would look like. The building is largely used as a meeting place for global employees and collaborators, and is also used in collabo-ration with the art, fashion and music industries.

atelier

Tulegatan 7. Subway station - Rådmansgatan

The unique surroundings in which Restaurang Farang is located contributes to a memorable gourmet experience. The building originally housed the Electric Works of Stockholm - now, it offers a walk through the culinary delights that only South East Asia cuisine can live up to. Here, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia & Indonesia are served up to you in both inventive & traditional ways and you are encouraged to share your dishes, giving you a food-experience without the formalities. Farang also has fresh and exciting cocktails and an interesting wine list. We lookforward to trying it out with you!

farang

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VASASTANThis area contains many quiet residential neighbourhoods but there are also excel-lent places to eat and shop, plus several exciting new galleries. It includes the city’s main library, designed by noted Swedish architect Gunnar Asplund, a charming park called Vasaparken, and Rörstrandsgatan which is known for its variety of cafés and restaurants.

Tegnérgatan 41. Subway station – Rådhuset

Rolfs Kök offers a menu on which the season’s flavours are clearly shown. The place feels more like a food studio, as the kitchen is integrated into the restaurant, which gives you a homely warm feeling and a sense of generosity. The joint keeps an interesting wine list and staff happilly present it with seemingly boundless knowledge. Whatever you do don’t miss their ox-cheek with truffle potato purée in their Spanish/French-inspired farm food menu.

rolfs kök

Tulegatan 24. Subway station - Tekniska Högskolan

Named after the owner, who is also the chef, Svartengrens quickly es-tablished themselves on the Stockholm food scene. This eatery is chiefly known for its exceptional meats that are handpicked from specific islands just outside the city. This lovely hangout has been converted from an old pharmacy, and the premises’ tradition of assorted elixirs is upheld with great ambition behind the bar. Curative or not, the drinks are simply great!

svartengrens

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#acf

Foto av:

@haberdash_sthlm Haberdash Sthlm Haberdash are two multibrand stores located in Stockholm #haberdashsthlm. http://www.haberdash.se

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Roslagsgatan 43. Subway Station - Odenplan

This intimate little French bistro offers a menu that changes regularly. With service and cooking that is so personal and genuine, and matched with the wonderful atmosphere, it’s hard not to fall in love with this petite bistro

chez betty

Roslagsgatan 6. Subway Station - Rådmansgatan

De Ville boasts stunning interior design features, cool ambiance and beau-tiful, large wall paintings. The menu adheres to the traditional pillars of French cuisine with its delicious, rustic flavours. At De Ville, a really af-fordable 3-course Sunday dinner is served weekly with new dishes added every week.

de ville

Odengatan 86. Subway station - Odenplan

You don’t need to be a Rocker, Biker or a huge James Dean fan to love this boutique, but it’ll definitely help. As the name suggests it’s all about second hand leather, mostly vintage, but some new too. They’ll buy, sell, repair and do alterations to anything leathery, and even dry clean it if you wish. If you want to look tough and bold, this is your destination.

118 second läder

Drottninggatan 102 B. Subway Station - Rådmansgatan

This ambitious espresso bar serves, if not the best coffee in Stockholm, at least the second best! In the A Life worth Eating blog, Kafé Esaias ranked 5th in World’s best Espressos. Their salads and sandwiches are also deli-cious and breakfast is served here between 8-11am.

kafé esaias

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Rörstrandsgatan 4. Subway station – St. Eriksplan

One of the oldest real espresso bars around, it now has two locations, the original located at the top of the Vasastan cult street, Rörstrandsgatan. A charming spot with a ”Hole in the wall” feeling, brilliant coffee and irresist-ible cardamom buns served by a vibrant staff.

mellqvist kaffebar

Odengatan 24. Subway station -Tekniska högskolan

By mixing small or less known designers with second hand and a few more well- established brands, Anna and Karin who run this fashion den, wanted to create a fun and inspiring mix of clothes. Here you’ll be peeking through brands like Pimpinette, Stylein, Klara Stark and Bea Szenfeld, a candystore for fashion lovers.

katitzi

Upplandsgatan 50. Subway Station - Odenplan

This award-winning menswear store sells a quality, not quantity, selection of clothing. Brands represented include: Our Legacy, Polo Ralph Lauren, Penfield and Gant Rugger, to name but a few. Their sister store is located on Kocksgatan 17, which is close to subway station, Medborgarplatsen.

haberdash

Drottninggatan 89. Subway station – Rådhuset

Ascended from the ashes of the tragic fire in late 2007 and launched a complete makeover. Basically, the venue incorporates one concept with a hugely varied interior, almost appearing to have been designed whilst under the influence of mind-tweaking drugs. Envisioned by celebrity chef and former Let’s Dance competitor Melker Andersson, it could be regarded as a designer’s dream of total free rein. Go see for yourself and enjoy the menu which is as the name indicates - Grilled!

grill

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östermalmÖstermalm is Stockholm’s most up-market area. Be-tween Stureplan and Östermalmstorg you will find several of the city’s best restaurants and many in-teresting places and beautiful buildings. The classic market hall, Östermalmshallen, is not to be missed. On a sunny day, take a stroll along magnificent Strandvägen or venture into the beautiful Hum-legården park.

Kommendörsgatan 16. Subway station - Östermalmstorg

Volt has been highly anticipated among restaurant enthusiasts in Stock-holm. The four young and super ambitious owners all have experience from renowned Michelin star restaurants in Sweden and describe Volt as a gastro bistro.

volt

Subway Station - Östermalmstorg

If you are looking for a good selection of nightclubs, it is in the Stureplan area that you should look. Keep in mind, however, that this small neigh-bourhood is also notorious for having some of the strictest door policies in the world. It is known to happen that if you are not on the guest list, bouncers may not feel compelled to let you in. Nightclubs around Sture-plan include Sturecompagniet, Spy Bar, East, Solidaritet and Bergmans, to name but a few.

stureplan

Tram – 7N

Until the 18th century, Djurgården was a royal hunting ground but today this beautiful island is a favourite place for long summer walks and picnics. In addition to providing city dwellers with easy access to nature, visitors come to explore the Vasa Museum, the open-air museum of Skansen and the Gröna Lund amusement park.

djurgården

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Humlegårdsgatan 17. Subway station - Östermalmstorg

Recently opened by the patron of locally grown products, Niklas Ekstedt, this rather small restaurant cooks everything over an open fire, an ancient method we are all familiar with. Uniquely, all the wood used comes from different Swedish trees and it is truly an art to cook food to perfection in this way. Showered with great reviews ensures constant custom so make sure to book ahead.

ekstedts

Eriksbergsgatan 6. Subway station - Rådmansgatan or Östermalmstorg

Café, patisserie and boulangerie, french feeling and most famous for their outra- geously massive cinnamon buns, very enjoyable on one of those cold windy days when you can sit for hours with your café Latte or tea from Mariage Frères.

saturnus

Näckströmsgatan 8. Subway Station - Östermalmstorg / T-Centralen

Berns Hotel, based in Berzelii Park in central Stockholm, will be your home during your visit with us in Sweden. The building was constructed between 1862-63 and now operates as a hotel, restaurant, entertain-ment venue and nightclub. It may also interest you to know that Berns is the setting in which August Strindberg’s based his novel, The Red Room.

berns hotel

Grevturegatan 36. Subway station - Östermalmstorg

For you francophiles - this restaurant survived the first three year hype and still does not cease to impress ten years later. As a matter of fact they can still flaunt themselves as award-winning “Restaurant of the Year” in 2010... très bien, n’est ce pas? Why not try the Moules Marinières, Choucroute Garnie, Chèvre Chaud, Steak frites in a class of its own in a laid back intimate milieu.

brasserie godot

Mäster Samuelsgatan 10. Subway Station - Östermalmstorg

This Stockholm-based fragrance house was founded by Ben Gorham in 2006. The house creates its own brand of perfumes as well as scented candles that match the perfumes. Byredo has become known for the witty names given to their fragrances, for example: Gypsy Water, Rose Noir or Leather Travel Cases. Their eaux de parfum and other fragrances can also be found at exclusive stockists globally such as Barney’s, Colette, Bon Marché and Liberty.

byredo

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#byredo #perfumes #present @leeldin

Foto av:

@jozet Johanna Zetterström

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Kommendörsgatan 46. Subway station – Östermalmstorg

A new member of the top gastro experiences in Stockholm; Gastrologik is a neo-Nordic kitchen that draws inspiration from all over the world. It is here that unique, raw produce is refined in a ”logical” way that makes for exciting gastronomy. The cool thing here is that it is the supply that dictates the menu, not the demand. At Gastrologik, you will never have to worry about deciding what to choose on the menu, because there is none! So, just sit back and enjoy!

gastrologik

Stureplan 6. Subway station - Östermalmstorg

Sturehof is an institution in Stockholm with one of the most all-encompassing bar concepts that attracts a wide range of people. This place can boast high quality without being too fancy. Some people say it is “La Coupole” of the north, if that says something to you?It is a place to spontaneously drop in to after some savage treatment to your AmEx in the nearby shopping district. Order a large glass of crisp Chablis and get your hands on a massive platter of shellfish, which is their specialty.

sturehof

Norrlandsgatan 24. Subway Station - Östermalmstorg

This newly opened townhouse sets a new standard for design in Stock-holm. Globally acclaimed Spanish interior designer, Lázaro Rosa-Violán, was commissioned to design this eatery and his efforts have brought an international flair to the Swedish capital. Nosh And Chow is part of the Berns group of restaurants and is well worth a visit!

nosh and chow

Sturegatan 6. Subway Station - Östermalmstorg

Taverna Brillo is the latest addition to the Sturehof & Riche group, a group that runs some of the finest establishments in Stockholm. As the name might suggest, Italian food & drink is the order of the day in this big, bustling, crowd-pleasing restaurant. Drop by in the afternoon for an aperitivo or settle in for a nice, long dinner.

taverna brillo

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KUNGSHOLMENFormerly known as a quiet, residential island, Kungsholmen is starting to come to life with new restaurants and shops. The best way to explore it is to start at the magnificent City Hall - where the Nobel banquet is held each year - and then take a waterside walk along Norr Mälarstrand.

Bergsgatan 17, Subway station - Rådhuset

This café takes their coffee and regulars seriously. It’s a second home for the loyal creative crowd. Magnus, who runs the place, has a peculiar ability to make everybody feel at home. A place in which you’ll be in-spired for the everyday, and if not, will make for interesting conversation. Today, Il Caffé also caters for the trendy Södermalm hipsters from their café on Södermannagatan.

il caffé

Hantverkargatan 12, Subway station - Rådhuset

The sausage is trendier than ever, and in Stockholm there’s a rush for David Taylor and Gareth Jones’ tasty wieners. Taylor and Jones produce all sausages in-house, in a small, carefully scrubbed cold room behind the shop. They have 65 different own-recipe sausages, everything from traditional English sage flavoured pork sausages to specials on deer or chicken. The shop also provides cut meat, pies, English cheeses and Hag-gis - a truly traditional Scottish diet!

taylor and jones

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#dinner #taylorandjones

Foto av:

@the_dust_bowl Douglas Luhanko Works at Unionville in Stockholm and creates Blue Highway denim. Collector of Swedish porcelain and old jeans. http://www.unionville.se

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Fridhemsgatan 43, Subway station - Fridhemsplan

All roads, or detours, sooner or later lead to Grandpa. This funky boutique, with good charisma and wide selection of almost everything from second hand furniture to bikes and accessories, ought to satisfy even the most picki-est retro junkie. Design-wise brands like Velour, Dagmar and Won 100 can be found. If you find your way to Södermalm don’t miss out on their second shop located next to Il Caffé on Södermannagatan.

grandpa

Norr Mälarstrand Quay 464, Subway station - Rådhuset

With its lavish “indoors meets outdoors” design, this new addition to star-chef Melker Andersson’s empire sets for a relaxed and cosy environment all year around. Drinks are all about gin and the food menu is limited to lighter bar snacks.

orangeriet

Pipersgatan 1, Subway station - Rådhuset This ambitious little brasserie serves classic French food with flair, but also offers a few famous Swedish dishes. Before opening this venue, the owners found themselves on inspirational trips to both New York, with its Balthazar and Pastis, and of course to Paris; to the home of all brasseries. That’s how serious they are about giving you the full-on brasserie experience.

mäster anders

John Ericssonsgatan 6, Subway station - Rådhuset

This incredibly popular, French-inspired pastry shop triggered a wave of macaroon-madness in Stockholm that has lasted for a few years.

petite france

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Kungsholms strand 157. Subway Station - Fridhemsplan

In 2011, Jon Widegren decided to quit his job and put his heart & soul into creating Sweden’s best hamburger joint. Before he opened his own venue he went on a reconnaissance road trip around the US in search of the perfect hamburger(s). He consumed 64 burgers in 38 days in order to uncover the optimal combination of minced meat and the most suitable type of bread. Flippin’ Burgers is the result of his pursuit for hamburger perfection. The restaurant is so popular that you are almost guaranteed a (worthwhile) wait!

flippin’ burgers

Kronobergsgatan 37, Subway station - Fridhemsplan

About two years ago, the boys from Rolf’s Kök took over the restaurant from the former owners who went belly-up. Cynics and sceptics ruled out a fresh start for the venue, but today we imagine that they must be walking around with their tails between the legs. A huge success from day one, this place is so popular that, even today, you have to plan your visit ahead in order to be guaranteed a table. Meat, meat and more meat is a solid fixture on the menu, complemented nicely with a great wine menu. They also have a spacious bar area, where the bartender slices prosciutto as well as pouring your choice of drink.

ag

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SÖDERMALMCommonly known as Söder (South), this former work-ing class area is now Stockholm’s most lively and bohemian district. In addition to a great number of restaurants and pubs, Söder also offers some remark-able views from the cliffs on its northern shore.

Subway station - Medborgarplatsen

These trendy quarters, on Södermalm, whose name is short for South of Folkungagatan, has been on every cool Stockholmer’s destination map for those looking for relaxed and eclectic shopping. In this laid back neigh-bourhood, framed by the streets of Folkungagatan, Götgatan, Renstiernas-gatan and Skånegatan, the hip and cool fashion and second hand stores are lined up next to cosy restaurants, bars and cafés. If you’re looking for smaller Swedish designers and cool vintage clothing, this part of town is absolutely worth the detour!

sofo

Krukmakargatan 24. Subway Station - Mariatorget

Papercut is a must for all magazine maniacs, with a quality selection of design, art, fashion, travel, architecture and interior design. If magazines are not your thing, they also have a decent selection of movies and books available in store.

papercut

Folkungagatan 45. Subway Station - Medborgarplatsen

This tiny sushi spot can seat no more than 5 people at a time. The sushi is of the “new style” and is, hands down, the best in town! A word of advice: call ahead when making your order – this place is popular but it it’s worth the inevitable wait!

akki sushi

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Hornsbruksgatan 24. Subway Station - Hornstull

With the opening of Tjoget, the people of Stockholm now have a great reason to visit Hornstull, an up-and-coming neighbourhood in the south of the city. Tjoget’s concept is threefold - a barbershop, a patisserie and a restaurant all under one roof - and craftsmanship is the mantra. At night, the pâtisserie is transformed into a small, intimate bar called Purple Room that can seat only 15 people. Their Linje 10 restaurant dishes out continental food with a southern European flair. The natural epicentre of this tripod establishment is the Linje 10 bar serving magnificent drinks & ambiance. Andreas Bergman, 3rd runner up in ABSOLUT INVITE 2012, is one of the co-founders of Tjoget.

tjoget

Bondegatan 59. Subway station - Medborgarplatsen

Häktet is a bar of two halves; one half is completely different to the other and is also located in a separate, adjacent building. The bar on the left is quite aptly called, “Vänster”, which literally means “to the left”. Vänster is run by an ambitious bunch of skilled bartenders who offer table-service only – so no standing at the bar. Ring the bell to get buzzed in at the door!The right-hand side of Häktet is significantly roomier, consisting of a res-taurant, a cocktail bar and a small wine- & champagne bar. This bar is typically busy and buzzing and has made Häktet one of Södermalm’s most popular venues.

häktet

Krukmakargatan 26. Subway station - Mariatorget

This exclusive designer mecca and concept store houses both a hairdresser and a coffee shop for the seriously fashion-conscious dudes and gals. Mix-ing clothes, furniture and books, this store just might still all your hunger for design! On the men’s side one can find brands like A.P.C., Miu Miu, Levis Vintage and Swedish Fifth Avenue Shoe Repair. On the women’s side one can browse through Swedish designers like Hope, Whyred, Rodebjer as well as well-known international designers like Sonia Rykel. Back from the dead in 2008, Nitty Gritty is nowadays bigger than ever!

nitty gritty

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#vodka #pommeau #rockcandy #nopunhintended

Foto av:

@nick_falk Corpse Reviver.

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Götgatan 36. Subway station - Slussen

Situated on the hump of Götgatan, this mall is not your usual one - acting as a mall by day and transforming into a bar at night. Located in a building that dates back to18th century, this is one of the natural meeting points for the urban and trendy inhabitants living in this bohemian and creative part of town. Prices are moderate and you’ll find shops like Adidas Original Store, Whyred, Filippa K, Flying A and David Design.

brunogallerian

Nytorget 4. Subway station - Medborgarplatsen

This place is proof that Stockholm is inspired by cosmopolitan cities like NYC. A hybrid between an exclusive market, restaurant and bar, this well attended place is reminiscent of Eataly located in the Batalis Flatiron district of New York. Urban Deli sits right in the heart of what locals refer to as SOFO (South of Folkungagatan) - how New York is that? – Or is it just cheesier than their cheese counter?

urban deli

Hornsgatan 66. Subway station - Mariatorget

Is there a prize they haven’t won lately? This joint is all about Nawlins (a.k.a New Orleans) and its rich food and drinks culture. Little Quarter is to blame for the recent drought of Four Roses in Sweden. Does that give you a hint as to what style of drinks this place is famous for? They are the win-ners of Bartenders Choice Awards Best Cocktail Bar two years in a row, and this is also the place where Bartenders’ Choice Award 2012 winning bartender Björn Kjellberg mixes his tequila libations.

little quarter

Hornsgatan 65. Subway station - Mariatorget

A gentleman always prefers second hand! At least if the knowledgeable and friendly staff at Herr Judith had their way. It would be a slight understat-ment to say that Herr Judith carries one of the finest and well-assorted gems for gentlemen in Stockholm. Ranging from hats and accesories to leisure and party clothes this is a must if you’re into vintage flair.

herr judith

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archipelagoOf course Stockholm is wonderful. However, many visi-tors are unaware of its most spectacular feature – the ar-chipelago. This magnificent maritime landscape of more than 30,000 islands, islets and skerries, of which just some one thousand are inhabited, is unique in the world.Visitors can hardly believe their eyes the first time they experience Stockholm’s archipelago on a sunny sum-mer’s day. Not to mention on a crystal-clear winter’s day. Within two hours by boat or car from Stockholm you can be anywhere in the archipelago – to your very own paradise, where you feel like you’re a thousand miles from the nearest city.

59°17,18 N. 18°55,18 E.

An island where you can experience the remarkable maritime terrain of the outer archi-pelago. Sandhamn is the key meeting place for sailors and yachters, with a vibrant party scene during summer. The idyllic village, a historical sea pilot station, has an inn, hotels, the classic Royal Swedish Yacht Club, and numerous restaurants and bars. Sandhamn is also worth a visit offseason, when the archipelago has returned to its peaceful natural state.

sandhamn

59°24,6 N. 18°34 E.

A charming island, just over an hour away by the fastest boat, via Vaxholm. A blissful archipelago setting, in a nature reserve. Good swimming in summer. Grinda Wärdshus is an inn, built in art nouveau style, open on weekends and holidays year round. Grinda has hotels, cabins, a youth hostel and camping grounds, plus a range of activities including kayaking. Open all year, although only weekends during winter.

grinda

vaxholm

59°24 N. 18°17 E.

Idyllic archipelago town with many well-preserved wooden houses from the turn of the last century, painted in the archipelago’s typical delicate pastel tones. Vaxholm has numer-ous charming restaurants, cafés and shops. Waxholm Hotel, with its great views of the fortress and harbour, is a classic choice for lunch or dinner, or, why not a Christmas Buffet. Vaxholm is easily accessible year round, by boat or bus.

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#sandhamn

Foto av:

@ilyakudryavtsev Ilya Kudryavtsev Still in the game

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Magasin 3 Frihamnen. Buss - 76

Tucked away in an old brick warehouse, Magasin 3 is one of Stockholm’s leading institutions for contemporary art. With plenty of light and vast, spacious rooms, the gallery can easily accommodate all sizes and shapes of modern artwork. Whether hosting retrospectives or group exhibitions, it showcases contemporary art on a level that other galleries can only dream of.

magasin 3

Stora Tullhuset Stadsgårdshamnen 22. Subway station - Slussen

Fotografiska strives to be a vital centre for contemporary photography with the ambition to exhibit world-renowned photographers, many of whom have never exhibited in Sweden. Located in the heart of Stockholm, Foto-grafiska is housed in a former industrial Art Nouveau style building dating from 1906. Designed by Ferdinand Boberg, the building was used for the customs control of goods, and is listed as a building of cultural interest. The original brick facade of the beautiful customs building is intact, while the interiors have been renovated to house the museum. Fotografiska also houses an academy, bistro, café, bar, conference rooms, museum gift-shop, gallery, and event spaces.

fotografiska

The artsIn the early 1980s, ABSOLUT VODKA developed a revo-lutionary style of advertising, making use of the iconic design of the vodka bottle itself. In 1986, Andy Warhol triggered the first of many commissioned artworks. Little did we know that this catalyst would lead to a revolu-tion in the way we market brands today. Since then, fashion, sculpture, film, photography, music and many other forms of artistic media have been incorporated into the ABSOLUT Art world, including hundreds of famous names such as Keith Haring, Ellen Von Unwerth, Spike Jones and Swedish House Mafia. Always endeavouring to remain on the edge of contemporary culture, ABSO-LUT VODKA is convinced in the theory that doing things differently leads to something exceptional. We believe there is an artist in everyone – if there is a little artist within you, be sure to check out some of the exceptional exposés that the Stockholm art scene has to offer!

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Skeppsholmen. Subway station - Kungsträdgården

The Museum of Modern Art is worth a visit both for its architecture by Rafael Moneo and for its impressive collection. It has more than 5,000 paintings, sculptures and installations, along with over 25,000 watercol-ours, drawings and prints from some of the world’s best-known modern and contemporary artists. There are two cafés and a restaurant serving both lunch and dinner with a sunny terrace overlooking Djurgården and the Vasa Museum. A great brunch is served in the restaurant at weekends.

stockholm museum of modern art

Prins Eugens väg 6. Tram Station - Waldemarsudde

This museum is actually the former home of the Swedish prince, Prince Eugen. The painter prince discovered the building in 1892, when he rented a house there for a short period. Seven years later he purchased the premises and had a new house built, designed by well-known architect, Ferdinand Boberg, who also designed Rosenbad (the Prime Minister’s Of-fice & residence and the Government Chancellery).

prins eugens waldermarsudde

Kungsträdgårdsgatan 12. Subway Station - Kungsträdgården

This small gallery is located in the middle of Kungsträdgården in central Stockholm, not far from Berns Hotel. The exhibitions change on a regu-lar basis and exhibit paintings as well as contemporary art. The gallery opened in 1978.

wetterling gallery

Djurgårdsvägen 38. Tram Station - Liljevalchs / Gröna Lund

The home of the incredible & inspirational ABSOLUT ART COLLECTION! This rather unconventional museum is highly recommended for anyone with a general interest in beverages but a must if interested in spirits and cocktails in particular. Apart from the ABSOLUT ART COLLECTION, Sprit-museum offers various thought-provoking exhibitions that change regularly.

spritmuseum

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know your enemy

Here are the names & nationalities of your opponents of ABSOLUT INVITE 2013. These “enemy” reviews are not merely for show, they are here for two reasons: to introduce the finalists to the competition and to give you the opportunity to become acquainted with your creative nemesis. You will un-doubtedly want to familiarise yourself with their strengths & weaknesses, their sunny sides and dark sides, as well as their pas-sions and paranoia! So, go forth and get to know your enemy! Happy reading!

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#absolutinvitesweden @purfict @andrucho

Foto av:

@bartenderschoiceawards Bartenders Choice Awards Bartenders’ Choice Awards is a anual award for bartenmders and bars. http://www.bartenderschoice.se

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Email: [email protected]

Newbie to the industry, this fledgling bartender takes pleasure in getting creative with the building blocks of cocktails in order to achieve the perfect result - a Persian Mule is considered among one of his favourites. In this, the dawning of his career, he has yet to pinpoint his philosophy, which leaves us with the delightful task of leading this aspiring Austrian down the bartender path and showing him some of the best that the industry has to offer! Reuniting recently separated Swedish House Mafia through his lovely libations shows us a refreshing idealism that lives within this Austrian!

thomas strappler

AUSTRIA


Inspired by the notion that a specialised approach to a concept can lead to something spectacular and a firm believer in the power of the possible, this Dane devours the variation & the delights that the gastronomy & bever-age worlds dishes up to him. He is particularly intrigued at the strictly Paleo menu that has managed to win & uphold Michelin stars for one of the top restaurants in Copenhagen. His ideal day off would end with some fine Michelin star dining, but not before a long, hard session at the gym! Fun fact: this training & Paleo lifestyle is something of a big deal in Denmark, so much so that they have released a documentary about it called Northern Spirit! Hardeep, make sure to also bring some of that Northern Spirit with you for the ABSOLUT INVITE finals!

hardeep rehal

DENMARK

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This Danish dude values & savours the small details that make a big dif-ference in his world, like the generous & selfless support of a colleague or a glint in the eye of an intrigued guest upon their first sip of his cocktail. He believes that the renaissance of the craft bartender is reaching maturity and that the focus will shift gently towards the attention to detail vis-à-vis the guest, tailoring drinks as well as service to their whims & desires. Whether or not Stefano is on the clock, his perpetual desire for inspiration often draws him to absorb the magic of the masters in the kitchen. He is playing his cards very close to his chest when it comes to revealing his ABSOLUT INVITE Creation, so we will just have to sit tight and wait to see what he has in store for us for the competition!

stefano censi

DENMARK


Inspired by everything around her, Aime Lõpp works according to a simple motto - Be smart, be quick, be happy! Those around her who work out of this passion for the art of bartending win a vote of admiration from this bub-bly bartender. Her thirst to succeed pushes her to enter competitions such as ABSOLUT INVITE, with a hunger to see what she’s really capable of! The proverbial apple of her eye in the bar world is Amsterdam speakeasy, Door 74 - a swanky hideout run by Timo Janse & team. If she had her way, you would probably find her at this bar, under the tin ceiling, sipping a Royal Apple Martini. Speaking of apples, she would also dare to use the forbid-den fruit in a cocktail to wow Warhol! How do you like them apples?!

aime lõpp

ESTONIA

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This happy-go-lucky lady will surely bring a new dimension from Eastern Europe to the competition. Spinning good vibes & creating high energy is how she strives in her work and is what drives her in her passion and hobby, bartending! A supporter of old school decorum, well-dressed Ladies and Gents with manners are her thing. It is this traditional view that she envisions in the crystal-cocktail ball for the near future. Having said that, she keeps a small space open for a special kind of guest, and keeps things local on certain points. Warhol, SHM and, more than likely, any of her other well-clad guests, could expect to be served up a traditional Estonian herb-liqueur, Vana Tallinn. This begs the question: will this Estonian go local or classic at ABSOLUT INVITE 2013?

marge mänd

ESTONIA


It is emerging that Conviviality is one of the recurring areas of significance for the finalist bartenders competing in this year’s ABSOLUT INVITE, and this Finnish mixologist is no exception. Hospitality is the key to Jarkko’s philosophy; explaining wisely that everything else aside are just the tools for a job well done. Predicting a shift towards the savoury side of cocktails whilst personally favouring ABSOLUT Wild Tea and Tonic leaves us none the wiser as to which angle he might take in the Creative Mixing stage of the competition! For someone who challenges boundaries and convention and who always looks for innovative ways to impress and inspire, we look forward to him creating something truly unexpected!

jarkko issukka

FINLAND

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The balanced approach that this classic bartender shares with us shows us, on one side, a generous helping of well-defined goals and ambition, whilst revealing a well-garnished & profound appreciation of his roots on the other. This Mexican-Finn has a soft spot for a place called La Capilla (The Chap-el) in Tequila, Mexico owned by local bar veteran, Don Javier. Deeming this his place of worship due to his love and appreciation of tequila with traditional Mexican cantina, Patrick anticipates the evolution of the tasty trend in drink & food pairing. We wish you all the best in the competition, amigo, and hope that you enjoy the saturation of creativity, conversation and, of course, cocktails over the course of the weekend!

patrick seppä

FINLAND


Cocktails and cuisine are but two of the pillars from which this team player, Florian Hubrich, draws his inspiration. Taking pride in what his native re-gion has to offer he enjoys working closely with locally sourced products & foresees a food-pairing trend on the horizon. German Schnaps, a.k.a Brände, is something that fascinates him and is an ingredient he reserves exclusively for drinks with a wow-factor!Inspired by the classic as well as the modern, a balance of good vibes, quality drinks & great service – balance must be the key to this mixolo-gist’s secrets. Aspiring to the great drinks & quality service one can expect at Gekkos, Frankfurt, to newly inspired vodka-based concoctions like the “Booze New Fashioned” from Booze Bar, Berlin, this is a guy to watch out for!

florian hubrich

GERMANY

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This Icelandic fellow is often inspired the moment he least expects it, wheth-er it is by a beautiful flower by the roadside or a hidden away gem of a bar that takes his breath away! The seeming simplicity of his inspirations, however, is not to be underestimated - keeping things simple permits him to push creative boundaries and to turn the mundane into the magnificent! Already intrigued? Ask him about his vodka-based creation, Passion for Apples! A word of caution, though - don’t let these simple tactics pull the wool over your eyes! This Icelander also comes with highly competitive characteristics backed up with a curiosity for criticism from the pros as well as the average Joe’s; all of this drives him to become a winner. It is more than likely this equation that has landed him at the finals of ABSOLUT INVITE 2013.

hilmar steinarsson

ICELAND


The expression, drawing blood from a stone, springs to mind when thinking of Icelandic bartender, Gunnsteinn Helgi. A man of few words, who keeps his thoughts and reflections to himself, we can only hope that his cocktails are more substantial! Perhaps it is a suspense tactic, who knows?! What we do know, however, is that this guy is a big ABSOLUT VODKA aficio-nado and is definitely on board the ABSOLUT INVITE train to have some fun, so that’s good enough for us!

gunnsteinn helgi

ICELAND

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The environment plays an important part in Deniss Smirnovs’ world and he would love to see cocktails take a shift towards the wholesome & natural end of the spectrum. Therefore, it is no wonder that outdoor activities are his thing, and you would be most likely to find this lively Latvian out skating, swimming or skiing,when possible. Otherwise its billiards, bowling and, of course, bartending! Rising from his capacity to surprise and delight - and aspiring to the likes of industry acclaimed, Peter Dorelli - this gent would love to go down in history as a household name in bartending. So, for the competition, Deniss can only hope that the jury resembles his ideal guest in every way: attractive (!), inquisitive and willing to experiment. In this way, this fella will most definitely bring his A-game. See you out there!

deniss smirnovs

LATVIA


A lover of life and learning would be the best way to describe this ABSOLUT INVITE finalist, Edgars Eldbergs. He is mindful of the fortunes that lie within the bartending industry and is shadowing his idols on a journey to realise his full bartending potential! Edgars believes in simplicity; that simplicity is what ingenuity is made of. This lyrical Latvian-lover-of-learning is coming to Stockholm with a clear target - to spot new trends, to expand his horizons and rise to the challenges that the bartender world puts before him!

egars elbergs

LATVIA

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New to the bartender competition scene, this blank canvas debutant paints a simple picture of life with one modest line, “You learn as long as you live”. Were Andy Warhol to visit this guy’s bar, he could expect to be served a liquid taste of Latvia in the form of a Clavis Riga cocktail, a Riga Black Balzams-based concoction. It is likely that the Clavis Riga would have also made a fine perfume for Warhol – and most definitely a much more fragrant one than an Oyster shot, Rihards’ tipple of choice, from B Bar, Riga! This Oyster-shot drinkin’, motorbike ridin’ contender has plenty of people rooting for him back home, and we wish him the very best of luck in this, his premier bartender competition, ABSOLUT INVITE.

rihards onzuls

LATVIA


This quirky bartender’s philosophy is that the customer is always right, until they are wrong! Although he may stretch to outer galaxies & technologi-cal advancements when it comes to new trends and ideas, his idol, The Maestro Salvatore Calabrese catapults him back down to earth again, inspiring him back to the classics. The most inspiring thing for this limitless Lithuanian is that a person’s taste will tell you a lot about them. This begs the question, Algirdas, how much should we know about you if we know that we are likely to see you sipping on an Ocean Breeze at the Hemingway Bar, Prague? We look forward to getting to know you over the ABSOLUT INVITE finals – should we expect fireworks?!

algirdas mulevičius

LITHUANIA

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This night owl is not your run-of-the-mill bartender – he is inspired by the nightlife and is out to party and enjoy the ride. Participating in bartender competitions allows him to experience the ultimate adrenaline rush on a professional level. His mixologist-motto is to always be right. This leads us to wonder, what could this mean? To always achieve the right balance in a cocktail? To always be on the right side of the bar? Or is meant in the purest form: Always be right, never be wrong? No doubt we will soon find out. A big fan of the skill & liquid intuitiveness of Czech mixologist & liquid guru, George Nemec, Giedrius must have some smashing tricks up his sleeve! Speaking of tricks, it is likely that we are in for a joke or two from this loony Lithuanian, who predicts that monkeys will eventually be the ones taking our drinks orders at the bar. We’ll see about that!

giedrius rimgaila

LITHUANIA


Declaring ABSOLUT VODKA as the best vodka there is, Robertas accepted his ABSOLUT INVITE with a view to putting his skills to the test & advancing his bartending career. His appreciation for the Japanese style of bartending extends as far as Bar Hi 5 in Tokyo, and his idol Hidetsugu Ueno. Without revealing too much, he has predicted that the cocktail scene will turn green, with the approaching dawn of the eco-cocktail. Perhaps he has something up his green sleeves for us in the competition!

robertas janovskis

LITHUANIA

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A diligent disciple of the art of the craft, Alexandre Ruas, appreciates the greats like Alex Kratena, Head Bartender at Artesian, and strives to master his skills and expertise through active study, repetition & refinement before competitions such as ABSOLUT INVITE. His guests are equally inspiring to him as they compel him to challenge convention and the boundaries of his creations – allowing him to return the favour through some truly kick-ass drinks! If you want to get a further glimpse into this Bristol Bar-man’s psyche, make a beeline towards a little tavern in Lisbon, which goes by the name Próco-pionn. Here, regulars consist mainly of artists and locals, making it largely unaltered by the tourist trade, giving you a truly original bar experience. Good luck finding it though! When you do, ring the doorbell and sim-ply wait for the old-school barkeep to open up! Alexandre, welcome to ABSOLUT INVITE 2013 - we look forward to experiencing the fruits of your labours!

alexandre ruas

NORWAY


You can expect a religious experience when being served by this out-of-the-box-thinking philosophe! Likening himself to a priest, Silvestras will hear out your woes as well as your joys whilst serving holy spirits in liquid form! Eloquently, and equally morbidly, he associates bartender competitions with funerals; it is only at funerals that all the family comes together in one place, and only at international bartender competitions that you meet the extended bartender community! You might find Silvestras sipping on an ABSOLUT Cranberry at COZY, in the quaint old-town in Vilnius and, if his predictions are correct, we might end up being served by robots in the future. Until then, Mr. Pladas, we look forward to seeing you in the flesh at ABSOLUT INVITE finals 2013!

silvestras pladas

LITHUANIA

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A keen admirer of Danny Meyer, CEO of Union Square Hospitality Group, Norwegian bartender, Monica Berg, is charmed by Meyer’s desire & ability to put customers and employees first. Is it possible that this Norwe-gian recognises a likeness to herself in this individual who appreciates the power of hospitality as much as she does? When it comes to her career in the bartending world, experiential opportunities are foremost in her mind and making it her business to ensure that her guests are having a good time triggers her efforts to excel professionally. The eloquence & conviction of this woman is as refreshing as it is promising. She would never dare to assume what her customers want - what they want, they will get! The only difference is - she will ensure that, that which they get will exceed all of their expectations!

monica berg

NORWAY


Professed mixologist, Jesper Høst, of No.19, Oslo, absolutely knows his stuff, if his track record in cocktails and bars is anything to go by. He is a candid aficionado of the many artists contributing to the bartending scene today; the dedication of Halvor Digernes of Fuglen, Oslo; the technique of Dennis Zoppi at Smile Tree, Torino; the perfect gentleman that is Harry Glockler of Beckett-Kopff, Berlin and the discerning palate of fellow ABSO-LUT INVITE contender, Monica Berg of Aqua Vitae, Oslo. With exhausted fads such as dry ice and smoking guns, this Norwegian envisages a resur-rection of the 80’s tipple bringing simpler, lighter & cleaner tastes back into glasses everywhere! The prospect of meeting new friends and pushing personal boundaries as a mixologist stimulates him to enter such bartender competitions as this. Now all there is left for us to say is – Jesper, you are right on track and we look forward to having you!

jesper høst

NORWAY

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Roman is a not a man to muddle words, preferring to keep things concise. But as a fond admirer of “Professor” Jerry Thomas, a man considered by many as the father of American mixology, we gain a clearer insight into the professional that this Russian bartender aspires to be. Driven by a mission to be at his best every day, every hour and every minute this guy is on a path of self-actualisation in the industry. Not unlike his idol, Roman predicts that the creativity within the business will take a turn towards tailor-made concoctions, with mixologists preparing unique twists to what may have been a classic. It may be with a twist that this Russian Roman decides to wow us at ABSOLUT INVITE finals. Did someone say Campbell’s Soup?!

roman nekrasov

RUSSIA


On a good day, you might find this guy lounging upstairs in Jubjub Bar at Callooh Callay, London, sipping on his favourite drinks and commending the bartenders on their intuitivism & brilliance! Ivan admits that he could not have avoided this profession, even if he tried, and is inspired in the knowledge of his inevitable existence in the industry. As a bartender, he finds that he has to be the master of many things as well as an actor on a stage, willing himself to improve and perfect the art of bartending on a daily basis. When he’s not stressing and rushing about, he likes to do the exact opposite, and similarly finds that the best guest is a guest that rests, as it gives him a chance to kick back and wow them with first-class drinks!

ivan vladimirov

RUSSIA

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Armed with a keen eye for quality, a wide-ranging base of knowledge & skilled in the fine art of service, Madeleine Rapp relishes the mystery & the potential that lies within every new guest that walks through her bar door! She believes that trends will become a lot less predictable & that success will be based increasingly on the quality of a concept, confidence in the process and professional execution - not forgetting a good deal of hard work! It is no wonder that she feels right at home at one of her all time favourite bars, Dutch Kills on Long Island, NY. This Swedish sister exudes a humility and equilibrium that is a force to be reckoned with. We look forward to cheering you on in the finals, Madeleine!

madeleine rapp

SWEDEN


One of the icons of the Stockholm bar-scene, Micke Karlsson is an advo-cate of both the great and of the unconventional and aspires to the hard work and dedication that the industry has come to expect. An admirer of the work ethic & professionalism of his colleague and friend, Björn Kjell-berg (voted Bartender of the Year at Bartender’s Choice Awards 2012), Micke has set the bar high for the competition ahead. Competing with No Punh Intended, this Marie Laveau chap looks forward to seeing what the other guys and gals get up this year and to testing himself in the ring at ABSOLUT INVITE 2013!

micke karlsson

SWEDEN

56


This Swedish guy could be labelled with many great terms, some of which could include colourful, insightful and wise. Not boxing himself off unneces-sarily into any particular area, he keeps an open mind and expects that knowledge and humour will prevail in the bartending & cocktail scene in the future. Even Warhol could be caught off guard by this beyond-the-obvi-ous bartender, especially if a Colorado Bulldog was not his typical cup of tea! Rikard’s favourite watering hole is located in London and is quite aptly called, Artesian. An Artesian, by definition, is a well from which water rises under pressure. No doubt his beloved sons and fiancé are rooting for their champ - let’s see how he rises under the pressure at this year’s finals!

rikard enell

SWEDEN

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HANDCRAFTED AND COPPER DISTILLED FOR NATURAL PURITY

ABSOLUT ELYX is a single batch vodka, made from a single harvest of the

highest quality winter wheat from the single estate of Råbelöf in the Åhus

region of Southern Sweden.

ABSOLUT ELYX is manually distilled in a copper column still from 1929.

The knowledge and expertise to run this old still has been passed down

through generations of Swedish spirit and vodka-making traditions.

This hand-operated copper distillation is ultimately what gives

ABSOLUT ELYX its natural pure taste & unique silky texture.

ABSOLUT ELYX

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50ml ABSOLUT ELYX

10ml Dry vermouth

10ml Lillet Blanc

10ml Sweet red vermouth

2 Drops celery bitters or orange Bitters (optional)

Orange twist

Cocktail glass

absolut elyxmanhattan

perfectMeasure ABSOLUT ELYX, sweet red vermouth, dry vermouth and Lillet Blanc into a mixing tin. Fill three quarters full with ice, add bitters and stir for 45 seconds until the drink has a suitable amount of dilution. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Press oil from the orange twist over the drink and serve.

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50ml ABSOLUT ELYX

15ml Calvados

10ml Apricot brandy

Orange twist

Cocktail glass

copperfaceMeasure ABSOLUT ELYX, calvados and apricot brandy into a mixing tin. Fill three quarters full with ice and stir for 45 seconds. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a twist of orange peel, press oil from the orange peel over the drink and serve.

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25ml ABSOLUT ELYX

25ml Fino dry sherry (Tio Pepe)

10ml Freshly squeezed lemon juice

5ml Sugar syrup

2.5ml Egg white

Long lemon twist

Cocktail glass

absolut elyxsour

Measure ABSOLUT ELYX, fino sherry, freshly squeezed lemon juice, sugar syrup and egg white into a mixing tin. First gently dry shake (no ice), then fill three quarters full with ice and shake. Double strain the drink into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a long lemon twist and serve.

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25ml ABSOLUT ELYX

10ml Freshly squeezed lime juice

5ml Agave syrup

25ml Extra dry vermouth

Top ginger ale (50ml)

Cucumber twist

Cocktail glass

silkenMeasure ABSOLUT ELYX, freshly squeezed lime juice, agave syrup and extra dry vermouth into a mixing tin. Fill three quarters full with ice and shake. Place the cu-cumber garnish into the base of a chilled cocktail glass. Double strain the drink into the glass, top with ginger ale and serve.

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index118 second läder19 glasACNEAGAkki SushiAtelierBAR (Blasieholmens Aqvarie Restaurang)Berns HotelBrasserie Le RougeBrunogallerianByredoChez BettyDe VilleDjurgårdenEkstedtsFarangFlippin’ BurgersFotografiskaFrantzén / LindebergGastrologikBrasserie GodotGrandpaGrillGrindaHaberdashHerr JudithHotel ReisenHäktetIl cafféKafé EsaiasKatitzi

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Kåken at NiklasLittle QuarterLydmar HotelMagasin 3MellqvistModerna (Stockholm Museeum of Modern Art)MoodMäster AndersNitty GrittyNK (Nordiska Kompaniet)NobisNosh And ChowOrangerietPapercutPetite FrancePrins Eugens WaldermarsuddePubologiRolfs KökSandhamnSofoSpritmuseumStorkyrkanStorkyrkobadetSturehofStureplanSvartengrensTaverna BrilloTaylor & JonesTjogetUrban DeliVassa EggenVaxholmVete-kattenVoltWetterling Gallery

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Documents

Absolut invite 2013 | Guide to Stokcholm