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Reindeer Cheesesteaks: Kiruna’s Unique Culinary Twist for Travelers

Reindeer Cheesesteaks: Kiruna’s Unique Culinary Twist for Travelers

James Miller, GetTransfer.com
by 
James Miller, GetTransfer.com
4 minutes read
News
September 04, 2025

Kiruna’s Unique Offering

A remarkable culinary scene has emerged in Kiruna, a town located about 200 kilometers above the Arctic Circle in Sweden. Known for its innovative menu at Stejk Street Food, the establishment serves a delicious twist on the iconic cheesesteak—reindeer and moose cheesesteaks!

A New Culinary Delight

The local food truck, founded by Zebastian Bohman and Cecilia Abrahamsson, offers hearty meals influenced by local ingredients and traditions. The cheesesteaks are a design to cater to both local miners and visitors, ensuring that everyone leaves satisfied.

Recently, a significant event in the town drew thousands to witness the historic Kiruna Church being relocated, showcasing the community’s resilience and the importance of local heritage.

Atmosphere at Stejk Street Food

Among the crowd enjoying these unique cheesesteaks were Don and Anita Haymes, tourists from the UK who have made a habit of returning to Kiruna for the past three years. They indulge in reindeer meat served by friendly staff, wearing playful shirts that read, “I’m glad Rudolph is dead!”

What’s in a Cheesesteak?

Traditionally, a cheesesteak features thinly sliced beef, cheese, and onions, famously hailing from Philadelphia. The way to order the dish is an art form, involving terms like “wit” or “wit-out” onions, and an unspoken rule regarding the must-have Cheez Whiz, a processed cheese that many claim is irreplaceable.

In Kiruna, Bohman and Abrahamsson have taken a playful approach. Though they’ve never ventured to Philadelphia, they crafted their sandwiches using locally sourced meats, reflecting the rich tradition of reindeer herding practiced by the Sami people.

Finding the Perfect Roll

One of the challenges in creating their cheesesteak was sourcing the right hoagie roll. While these rolls are a staple in Philadelphia, they are hard to find in Sweden, and to solve that problem, the food truck receives deliveries weekly from central Sweden.

The menu now features various options, including burgers, salads, and fries topped with moose or reindeer, allowing for a little something for everyone’s taste. Interestingly, locals usually favor the burgers, while tourists from Stockholm lean towards the salads.

Meat Quantities and Pricing

Every week, Stejk Street Food consumes around 100 kilograms (220 pounds) of ground moose and 50 kilograms (110 pounds) of specialty smoked reindeer, producing ample orders for cheesesteaks and other meat dishes.

Although the pricier Arctic cheesesteaks at around 245 Swedish krona (almost $26) may seem steep compared to their Philly counterparts, ranging from $16 to $18, many people find the cost justified.

Encouraging Feedback

Tourists like the Haymeses expressed satisfaction with their meals. Don remarked on the unique flavor of the reindeer meat compared to the game in England, finding the taste pleasantly different and approachable for a broader audience.

Italian traveler Anna Capoccia was equally impressed, noting that her reindeer and moose sandwich had a sweetness and flavor surpassing that of a traditional beef cheesesteak.

Unique to Kiruna

While Bohman and Abrahamsson have yet to experience the famed Philadelphia versions, they remain steadfast in their choices for the local palate. Adding Cheez Whiz to their menu isn’t a consideration due to its excessive richness, which doesn’t align with the Swedish preference for balanced flavors.

Conclusion: Explore Kiruna’s Culinary Scene

In conclusion, Kiruna’s innovative take on the cheesesteak—made with the local game of reindeer and moose—captures the essence of Swedish cuisine while appealing to both tourists and locals. Such culinary innovations can enhance travel experiences, especially when conveniently planned through services like GetTransfer.com, offering personalized transport options to make your journey seamless.

With GetTransfer, travelers can easily book a ride to explore unique culinary destinations without any hassle. Ensuring transparency in vehicle choice, fare structure, and comprehensive post-ride feedback adds an element of comfort to each experience. Even the most glowing reviews can’t measure personal experiences—when in Kiruna, why not try the reindeer cheesesteak yourself? Book your Ride at GetTransfer.com.

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