This year’s food line-up continues the festival’s tradition of showcasing some of the most exciting culinary experiences in Sweden, while placing an even stronger emphasis on local flavours and collaborations. One of this year’s highlights is the return of Startup Kitchen to Slottsskogen, where emerging food entrepreneurs and innovative concepts will once again take centre stage.
Food has always been part of the festival experience. Maybe it’s a late-night meal shared with friends between concerts. Maybe it’s something eaten sitting in the grass while a band is playing somewhere in the background. Way Out West has always understood that. But just as the festival’s lineup is carefully curated, there is also a clear philosophy behind its food. Since 2012, Way Out West has been a fully vegetarian festival — a decision that once sparked debate but today feels more self-evident than ever. Yet the festival’s relationship with food extends beyond what is served. It is also driven by a curiosity about what comes next and a belief that the future of food is delicious.
Last year, that curiosity found a home in Startup Kitchen. In a container kitchen at the heart of the festival grounds, some of Sweden’s most exciting food startups were invited to showcase ideas that rarely get the opportunity to reach larger audiences. The initiative is led by sustainable food entrepreneur Lisa Laurell in collaboration with Way Out West. “The idea is the same as last year: the most interesting solutions to food’s challenges often come from the smallest players – and they deserve to be seen on bigger stages,” says Laurell.
This year, Startup Kitchen returns in an expanded format and opens its doors to international participants for the first time. Festivalgoers will once again be able to explore new ingredients, beverages and dishes where sustainability, innovation and flavour work together rather than compete.
The companies and menu items featured in this year’s Startup Kitchen:
Beverages
Kado
Häppi
Théa
Norrlands Kombucha
Snacks & Coffee
More Cold Brew
Moonvalley
No Bar
Ingredients
Abuelaz
Kobb
Ärtonnaise
Mö
Oh Mungood!
Nothing F!shy
Planted
Sip & Go
