Sälen has gone from classic après-ski and filling skier food to a vibrant food scene with chefs creating mountain-inspired menus from locally sourced ingredients. Today, there are a number of high-class restaurants in Lindvallen, Högfjället, Tandådalen, Hundfjället and Stöten - and around Sälfjällstorget where many people live and spend their evenings. The combination of environment, ingredients and warmth makes Sälen one of the mountain world's most culinary destinations.
Classics with a mountain flavour
If you're looking for a classic evening with a white canvas and atmosphere, Gammelgården on Högfjället is a sure bet. Here, game, char and mountain berries meet modern technology and care. Perfect for couples or small groups who want to celebrate something special. Book early during Christmas, New Year, sports holidays or Easter - the pressure is high and places are few.
Lindvallen - width and modern elegance
Lindvallen is home to several of Sälen's most talked about restaurants. Lammet & Grisen is an institution that serves perfectly cooked meat on a plate, while Pontus! in Sälen offers modern, international cuisine with Nordic flavours. Add to the list Majkens and Harry's for a more relaxed après-ski that smoothly transitions into dinner. From ambitious lunches to full-service evenings, there's something for everyone.
Sälfjällstorget and Högfjället
Around Sälfjällstorget you'll find Olarsgården - a local favourite where Swedish husman meets mountain twist. It's homely, affordable and child-friendly, with walking distance to many of Sälengodset's accommodations. At Högfjället, Gammelgården offers a more classic experience, with rustic elegance and top-class service. If you live nearby, you can walk to dinner even in winter, which is always a bonus.
Tandådalen, Hundfjället and Stöten
In Hundfjället you'll find Fjällkåtan and Lyktan - two classics that offer well-prepared, filling food in a cosy environment. Tandådalen offers both tradition and renewal with new concepts that coexist with classic restaurants, making the area perfect for those who want to eat varied during the week. At the far north end of Stöten is Stöten Brasserie, with views over the valley and dishes ranging from pizza to three-course meals with wine packages.
Dining experiences at the cottage
A smart alternative to restaurant visits is to book a private chef in Sälen. The chef comes to your cottage, cooks the food on the spot and leaves the kitchen clean - an experience that is often the highlight of the week. For those who want ready-made food without serving, there is also catering in the mountains with “heat & eat” arrangements, perfect for arrival day or evenings with the family.
Child-friendly choices and booking tips
For families, restaurants like Lammet & Grisen and Olarsgården are particularly good - they combine children's menus with a relaxed environment. Book early, especially during holidays and weekends, and specify special diets when you book. One tip is to choose early seating and save your energy for dessert. Larger parties often get a better flow and price with a set menu.
Executive summary
Sälen offers an impressive dining experience from mountain classics to modern lodge dining. Högfjället for atmosphere, Lindvallen for breadth, Sälfjällstorget for cosiness and Stöten for views - choose the area according to the mood of the evening. Combine a restaurant visit with an evening with a private chef or dinner at the cottage i Olarslodgen, Fjällgodset or Sälengodset - the evening will be at least as memorable as the day on the slopes.