While most people think about moving to a new city or state for weeks, if not months, Thomas McEntee left New York City for Stockholm practically overnight.
The year is 2010. After watching the rise in popularity of Swedish fashion, music and culture in the United States and feeling that life in America no longer suited her, McEntee made a bold decision: “I needed a new challenge , so I packed my bags and bought a one-way ticket to Stockholm,” he says.
Since then McEntee has worked with some of Sweden’s hottest fashion brands like Gant and Cheap Monday, obtained his Swedish citizenship and met his life partner. But it wasn’t until he started working as an eyebrow artist in one of Stockholm’s best salons, Fermano Sthlm, that he realized his true calling. (McEntee was mentored by two of the world’s most famous industry experts: Damone Roberts — whose clients include Rihanna, Madonna, and Beyoncé — and the Kardashians’ favorite friend Kelley Baker.)
Brow shaping sessions at Fermano Sthlm until he opens his own studio in November.Thomas McEntee
With business booming and showing no sign of slowing down – his calendar is booked months in advance – McEntee is opening his own studio this November. “I’m privileged to not only sculpt the eyebrows of some of Scandinavia’s biggest celebrities, but also the industry itself,” he comments.
What McEntee loves most about living in Stockholm is “the perfect balance between a big city and the laid-back nature. You can be in the middle of the city, walk 15 minutes at most, and then feel like you’re in the country.”
Here McEntee opens his little black book about Stockholm.
Best Stockholm neighborhood
“That might be a bit controversial, but it’s Fridhemsplan/Kungsholmen. What I love most about it is that it’s the perfect mix of downtown and uptown vibes. It has a downtown feel, but it’s also right on the water. They also have hidden treasures here. So if you are looking for a part of the city without tourists but with great restaurants and bars, Kungsholmen is for you.”
Best restaurants in Stockholm
Punk Royale
FREDRIK SKOGKVIST
“There are two great restaurants for casual dining. One of these is Främmat, where the menu is constantly changing but throughout has a French flair with an atmosphere without rules. And at Asian Post Office, there are two dishes that will have you ordering in seconds: the popcorn shrimp and the broccoli fried in miso dressing. You must also order the Thai basil cocktail.”
Everyone is always looking for the best Swedish meatballs. Prinsen is the perfect place for good food with traditional Swedish flavors. The meatballs are delicious, but if you like veal, there’s a dish called Wallenbergare. Prinsen makes the best version. If you’re looking for fine dining with a twist, try Punk Royale. However, you have to plan well in advance because getting a table is not easy.”
Best Stockholm bars
Malarpaviljongen
Malarpaviljongen
Mälarpaviljongen floats on a barge out in the water off Norrmälarstrand. It’s the perfect spot on a summer afternoon to bask in the sun or people watch as it’s always packed. When you feel like a dip: jump straight in, swim, climb back up and go back to your table to enjoy your Aperol Spritz or Rosé.”
Trädgården is an outdoor concrete circus for adults under a bridge. Expect great music, fun vibes and a new bar area designed by the amazing architect and designer Gustaf Westman.”
Best shopping in Stockholm
Maria Nilsdotter
Maria Nilsdotter
“The best boutique is undoubtedly JUS. It’s dark, avant-garde, and the only place to find iconic designers like Rick Owens, Yoji Yamamoto, Comme des Garçons, and Dries Van Noten.
If you’re in the mood for second-hand, Humana is great. While you’re here, be sure to upgrade your lingerie drawer and head over to CDLP, a Swedish brand that makes the best lingerie in the world. It is sustainable, comfortable and luxurious.
When it comes to jewelry, Maria Nilsdotter is undoubtedly the best. She combines whimsy and fantasy with a dark and edgy romantic energy. Her pieces have been worn by people like Lil Nas X, Gigi Hadid and the Swedish Crown Princess.”
Best Stockholm Galleries
Way gallery
Way gallery
“Way Gallery represents emerging artists and creatives with a fun and imaginative atmosphere.
Liljevalchs is a beautiful and huge gallery space that focuses on all kinds of art. They host about three major shows a year and have added a new building that doubles the space size to allow artists to create the most breathtaking experiences.”
The best hotels in Stockholm
A deluxe room in Villa Dagmar
Villa Dagmar
“Villa Dagmar is a stunningly chic home in the heart of the city and next to one of the most famous food markets, Östermalm Saluhall. It’s also just steps away from some of the city’s best shops, restaurants, and museums.
At Six is super chic with a great vibe, an amazing gym and views of the entire city. The rooftop bar, TAK, is one of Stockholm’s best.
The Hobo Hotel is a smaller boutique hotel geared toward the more creative and adventurous traveler, offering stylish rooms with great views.”
The interview has been edited and abridged for clarity.
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Katie Chang is a freelance writer based in Brooklyn. She started out as a writer for T: The New York Times Style Magazine and has since covered travel, food, culture and wellness for a variety of media including Food & Wine, Travel + Leisure, Vogue, Architectural Digest, Bloomberg, and more. Korea, pizza (next to the ranch please) and rescue dogs are her greatest loves.
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