Hotell Villa Solviken

We recommend this place for its pleasant atmosphere and wooden decor, the sea view, and the well-served fish soup.

From the street, the plain sign and dull-looking facade could easily make you walk past this little gem. Inside, though, everything is great. The food is very good, and the staff are friendly, sociable without overdoing it, and quick to respond to requests.

My son and I were staying at the hotel and figured dinner there would be a decent standard hotel meal. We were very wrong. Before our mains, we were brought a taste of excellent oyster soup, lovely bread and crispbread with butter. My 13-year-old had the catch of the day, cod, and I chose fish gratin. Both were at a really high level, and we couldn't understand why the restaurant wasn't packed on a summer evening. The food convinced us to add dessert even though we hadn't planned to: chocolate mousse with berries and a cheese plate, both just as impressive. This place is worth a detour.

The pannbiff with cream sauce, lingonberries and potatoes was the highlight of my day in Lysekil. It's a familiar dish, but Villa Solviken got every part right: juicy steak, a rich sauce, sweet lingonberries to cut through it, and potatoes cooked just so. You can tell the kitchen takes pride in its work. The dining room has a warm, old-fashioned feel, with wood panels and lace curtains that reminded me of Sunday at grandma's. Service was relaxed and friendly, while still attentive, and the prices seemed fair for the meal and experience. I left full and happy. After dinner I walked down to the sea, only a few minutes away. Lysekil is lovely on the west coast, and the food, hospitality and seaside setting make Villa Solviken a place I'd gladly return to. A real find for anyone who likes proper home cooking.