Our Story

Our Story

It all starts with a longing. A longing for the Mediterranean sun, warmth, culture, and social life. For those moments by the sea, where food is more than just nourishment—it's togetherness, joy, and zest for life.

It all starts with a longing. A longing for the Mediterranean sun, warmth, culture, and social life. For those moments by the sea, where food is more than just nourishment—it's togetherness, joy, and zest for life.

It all starts with a longing. A longing for the Mediterranean sun, warmth, culture, and social life. For those moments by the sea, where food is more than just nourishment—it's togetherness, joy, and zest for life.

A star chef comes back home

Behind the venture is Melker Andersson, one of Sweden's most famous chefs. Since 1994, he's opened and run about 20 restaurants, including the Michelin-awarded Fredsgatan 12 in Stockholm. Now, he's returning to his roots in Gävle/Forsbacka – together with his partner Alexander Aziz Zadeh, who will manage the location, and his daughter Thyra Axenström, who contributes with design and communication.

Sunlight dancing on the water.

A star chef comes back home

Behind the venture is Melker Andersson, one of Sweden's most famous chefs. Since 1994, he's opened and run about 20 restaurants, including the Michelin-awarded Fredsgatan 12 in Stockholm. Now, he's returning to his roots in Gävle/Forsbacka – together with his partner Alexander Aziz Zadeh, who will manage the location, and his daughter Thyra Axenström, who contributes with design and communication.

Sunlight dancing on the water.

A star chef comes back home

Behind the venture is Melker Andersson, one of Sweden's most famous chefs. Since 1994, he's opened and run about 20 restaurants, including the Michelin-awarded Fredsgatan 12 in Stockholm. Now, he's returning to his roots in Gävle/Forsbacka – together with his partner Alexander Aziz Zadeh, who will manage the location, and his daughter Thyra Axenström, who contributes with design and communication.

Sunlight dancing on the water.

Our vision

A place for meetings and enjoyment—a mix of restaurant, bar, and café. You can pop in for a cappuccino, a glass of wine, lunch, or dinner. The menu draws inspiration from the entire Mediterranean, from North Africa to Turkey. We cook using fresh ingredients, rich spices, and an honest food philosophy. As Melker often says, "double the flavors" to create that wow effect without complicating things.

The space we've built

The spot on Drottninggatan has been transformed into something new. It's a modern, sleek space with creamy white tones, dark brown accents, and clean lines. The atmosphere brings to mind the elegance of the Mediterranean, yet it keeps its heart firmly in Gävle.

The vibe

It's not just the food that matters. For us, the atmosphere, music, and people are just as important. That's why we invite you to enjoy live bands and DJs on weekends, late nights at the bar, and a vibe that makes every visit unique. Plus, our basement level hosts a bar brimming with energy and space for events – all without turning into a nightclub.

It's not just the food that matters. For us, the atmosphere, music, and people are just as important. That's why we invite you to enjoy live bands and DJs on weekends, late nights at the bar, and a vibe that makes every visit unique. Plus, our basement level hosts a bar brimming with energy and space for events – all without turning into a nightclub.

Welcome to

Syd Matbar