The year is coming to an end and soon we will enter 2026, the last year before the entire Operahuset closes for renovation for several years. Operahuset is a place that has been in people's lives for generations and in 2026 you will have the chance to experience it all one last time: the flavors, the nights, the music, the conversations and the moments. The Last Year is the year we remember, celebrate and capture the soul of the Operahuset - through the food and drink, the people and the atmosphere. It will be a twelve-month experience - at the tables, in the bars, in the glasses and in the meetings.
We begin with a conversation with the Opera House CEO, Oscar Durling, who shares his thoughts on the place, the people and the future.
Hello Oscar! Operahuset has been part of Stockholm's soul for generations - what does it mean to you personally?
Operahuset has always been a meeting place in the finest sense of the word. People have gathered here to eat, drink, celebrate and experience. The house has always stood for something more than just a meal - it's about gastronomy, culture and community. It has also been a place that has driven development forward, both in Stockholm's nightlife and culinary scene.
Why do you think people feel so strongly about this place?
Because everyone has their stories from here. Young and old alike have memories, anecdotes, evenings they will never forget. Café Opera in the 80s, Operabaren through the decades, the Christmas table in the dining room - there is almost an era in every person's life that is somehow linked to the house, or at least a longing to be part of it.
How have you seen the building change over the years?
When I turned eighteen, the Wednesday Club at Café Opera Opera was the obvious destination - it was big, a milestone. Since then, through my work in the industry, I have always moved here in various ways. I've followed the building through its ups and downs, inspired by the energy, the creativity and all the people who have passed through over the years.
Is there a particular moment or evening here that you will never forget?
When Kate Ryan performed one summer evening - her song Désenchantée filled the dance floor. It was packed, the atmosphere was electric. It was one of those nights where everything just clicks, where you feel like you're in the middle of something that will be a memory.
During the renovation, the building will be shut down for a while - what will happen behind the scenes?
The building will undergo a major structural change and a technical upgrade. It's about modernizing the infrastructure and creating the best conditions for the future. We've been working closely with the National Property Board for a long time and are very happy with the plans. It's a necessary break - but one that will allow us to come back even stronger.
What happens to all activities during this period?
They take a break. Our units are so unique and characterized by the environment here in the building that they cannot be moved without losing their soul. At the same time, we will do everything we can to keep our guests within the group during this time.
Will guests be able to follow the house during the closure?
We hope to be able to do some coverage during the period as well - but to what extent is too early to say.
The Last Year marks the last year before the house closes for renovation - what do you want this year to stand for?
I want The Last Year to be a year where everyone gets the chance to experience Operahuset one last time before we close for a longer period. That individuals, companies and brands take the chance to be part of something historic - a last period of dinners, parties, music and meetings before the house takes a break.
How do you see the balance between celebrating history and looking forward to the future?
Operahuset has always carried its history with pride - but also with curiosity. We change, but we are always stewards of our heritage. This house is a culinary stronghold, a symbol of Swedish gastronomy and hospitality. It is our responsibility to pass it on, to continue creating experiences that carry both tradition and future.
When the doors close at the end of 2026, what do you hope people will take away from the last year?
That they were part of the end of an era. That we've opened up the house in the last year and made it accessible to everyone - so that as many people as possible could feel the atmosphere and create memories for life.
What do you hope the building will be when it reopens after the renovation?
I hope that many things will be recognizable and that everyone who is part of the building today will also be part of it on the day we are ready to open. We will continue to be a place for meetings, experiences and celebrations - but with a new look. The renovation gives us the opportunity to grow, to refine our concepts and create even better experiences for the future. It's the same soul, but with new energy.
If you could take one thing home with you at closing time, what would you choose?
The wine cellar!
What would you like to say to everyone who has ever worked here?
Thank you for everything you have done, for your commitment, for the moments and memories you have created.
It is you who have made Operahuset what it is - you who have carried on the tradition and the passion. See you again when the doors reopen!
