Welcome to Smakbyn

Smakbyn opened its doors to the public in the autumn of 2012. It also marked the beginning of Michael Björklund’s dream project – one that he had been planning for years. The initial idea was to create an oasis of good food, flavorful drinks, artisanal foods, local produce and – above all – good company. Since then, Smakbyn has evolved into a restaurant, shop, conference hall and distillery. Smakbyn also organizes cooking classes and tastings, as well as events for food lovers of all ages. In the coming years, Smakbyn will grow into a small village of culinary experiences. Our goal is to always offer something new, good and inspiring.

Smakbyn is just a stone’s throw away from Kastelholm, a stately medieval castle on the shores of Lumparn bay on Åland. Our other close neighbors are Jan Karlsgården, an inspiring open air museum, and the old prison of Vita Björn. We thought Smakbyn would be a great name, because it brings together everything we do and create in a traditional red Åland house. In Smakbyn, you can enjoy a good meal, refreshing drinks or take part in a cooking class. We also offer guided tours of our distillery and brandy cellar, and you can buy delicious artisan food in our well-stocked shop.

Welcome!

Micke
Michael “Micke” Björklund is one of the best known chefs in Scandinavia. His home is the Åland Islands, a breathtakingly beautiful archipelago between Sweden and Finland. Michael became famous for his unique brand of culinary talent already in the 1990's, when he first appeared on popular TV cooking shows. Michael is also a highly respected restaurant owner and champion of local food, who has enjoyed success in the famed Bocuse d’Or competition as well as in Finnish and Swedish Chef of the Year competitions. On Åland, local folk and thousands of guests have come to know Michael as a gracious restaurant owner and exceptional chef.