For the past few years, Niklas Hjalmarsson has invited some of his teammates including Jonathan Toews to Tre Kronor in the North Park neighborhood for Swedish julbord, which is a smorgasboard served at Christmas dinner.
The restaurant, which has Hjalmarsson’s jersey on the wall, got high praise for its authentic food from Johnny Oduya, Marcus Kruger and Hjalmarsson who gave it 10 out of 10.
Owner Larry Anderson said the Stanley Cup has even made an appearance at the restaurant where patrons are often spotted singing Christmas songs in Swedish around the holidays.
“They’re just such nice people,” he said.
Among the traditional menu items the Hawks have ordered: gravlax (cured salmon), pickled herring, toast skagan (shrimp salad).
“Anything we’ve ever done for them, they’re just super appreciative,” Anderson said.
Which player usually picks up the check? He said Hjalmarsson pays the bill.
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