Jodi Cohen & Per Lei – a Canadian Success Story in Stockholm

One of the goals of the Canadian Expat Association is to support Canadian businesses abroad by letting other Canucks know who and where they are.  Literally thousands of Canadians have set up shop in their adopted countries.

Occasionally we stumble upon them during our travels and discussions.  During a recent interview with the Canadian Swedish Business Association we discovered one such establishment and would like to take the opportunity to introduce you to a small success story in Stockholm.  Per Lei (Italian for “For You”) is indeed a Canadian jewel in Scandinavia. 

After hearing about this high-end Italian restaurant and doing a quick Google search we came across an interesting comment on a Swedish language Bulletin Board; “If you think Canadians only play hockey, you may have to think again”.  It’s nice to be recognized for our national sport but it is equally sweet to hear that Canadians are beginning to be known for their skills in other areas.

In the beginning of October we jumped at the opportunity to speak with Jodi Cohen the founder, owner and chef of Per Lei.

Jodi, a native of Toronto, has been plying her trade outside of Canada for over 21 years.  The first leg of her journey took her to Italy where she worked and studied for 10 years perfecting the art of making exceptional Italian food.  11 years ago, she ended up in Stockholm after following her man to the European Great White North.

She hasn’t looked back since.  “Sweden has its challenges” Says Jodi. “But so does everywhere else in the world.  There are a lot of great things about raising children in Sweden. There are no charges for any dentistry work until children turn 18 years old.  Although Canada is quite progressive in thinking, Sweden is even more so.”  Jodi pointed out that there is an exceptionally high percentage of men that take their paternity leave from work.

Four years ago, Jodi opened up Per Lei and found it to be an almost immediate success.  With only 25 seats, it’s small and unassuming, but those that find it keep returning. “We’ve become known as the smallest, highest ceiling and most reasonably priced and luxurious restaurant in Stockholm (ceilings are 5.4 meters high),” Says Jodi.   “Per Lei is perfect for a social lunch,” she continues. “It’s never so busy that it’s distracting for even a light business meal.”

The word about Per Lei has spread and now even the Canadian Embassy in Stockholm uses its services for a few events every year.

Unable to visit the restaurant personally, we had to settle for a glimpse through the internet.  What we found was surprisingly wonderful.  We are given a small preview of what Per Lei has to offer and it leaves one longing to go out and buy a return ticket to Stockholm.

The photos reveal images that match the description of what Jodi was talking about to a ‘T’.  Small, unassuming yet elegant and warm. 

The menu, which apparently changes quite frequently to reflect both the seasons and Jodi’s art, has obviously been thought through very carefully.  We are presented with a mouth watering selection that would make any Canadian proud.  All for very reasonable prices considering what is listed on the menu.  A five course menu including:

         Almond breaded sea-scallops with cauliflower purée. pancetta and truffle,

Risotto flavoured with roasted garlic presented with a rabbit and lobster ballotine,

Seared seabass fillet with tartufata with cannellini beans and semi-dried cherry tomato,

Per Lei’s selection of cheese,

Sweet ravioli filled with chocolate accompanied with grappa flavoured mascarpone and cherry sauce-

All for approximately $95 CDN. Very reasonable!

Congratulations Jodi.  We are looking forward to the day that we are able to visit Per Lei and sample your wares.

For those planning a trip to Stockholm- take advantage of the opportunity to stop by and visit.  I’m sure Jodi would love to hear from you.

For further information:

The Canadian Expat Association: www.thecanadianexpat.com

Artillerigatan 56, Stockholm 114 45, Sweden

08-411 38 11

http://www.perlei.se/

info@perlei.se