At this point, my relationship to Swedish Hill has moved from enthusiasm to codependency, and there’s a good reason for it. From their coffees to their croissants, everything there is scrumptious. What started as my favorite place to grab a latte and read a book before church became an obsession, and it has become my life’s mission to take everyone I know to my little corner of heaven. So, when writing my article, that’s exactly what I did. I took a gaggle of girls week by week and eventually racked up a repertoire of knowledge extensive enough to feel qualified to write this article. Without further ado, and in no particular order, here are the best things from Swedish Hill.
The Nutella morning bun
Legitimately, this might be the most amazing thing I’ve ever put into my mouth. It’s similar in form to a “cruffin,” one friend commented, a remark that took us down a 20 minute google deep dive regarding the history of such a snack, which turned out to simply be a croissant baked in a muffin tin. Neither of us had the courage to ask whether or not this was applicable to the bun. It is absolutely covered in sugar, giving it a caramel-like flavor, making every bite ridiculously sweet. The croissant retains this beautiful crunch that is only made more delicious with the rich Nutella that just oozes out of this thing. A word to the wise: If you’re going to get a morning bun, I highly recommend you get it with a plain latte and don’t sweeten it. The sugar fallout that comes when you dip this delectable thing in your coffee is enough to make black coffee taste like maple syrup.
The Signature Swedish latte
One of the best iced lattes in Austin by a long shot. As someone who was raised by the coffee snob of the century, my dad would have me whiff beans to understand the complexity of a roast, I can confidently say that whatever blend they’ve got going on is superb. It tastes balanced. I was hesitant at first to get it with two different kinds of milk, but I’m so glad I trusted in the genius of whoever does the R and D for Swedish Hill. The mix of oat milk and coconut cream creates a melted ice cream-like texture without it being overly sweet or syrupy. Pairs well with: The Ham and Gruyere croissant. Something about the savoriness of the croissant mixed with the gentle sweetness of the latte really brings out the richness of the cold brew while keeping each bite and sip from feeling too heavy, creating that perfect balance where neither one overpowers the other.
Smoked Turkey Sandwich
The go-to of my friend Lulu, and for good reason. The sandwich has sourdough, which “The Hill” is known for, paired with so much turkey, they really don’t skimp. I have to unhinge my jaw in order to get a perfect bite. It’s got this wonderful vinegary flavor that’s due in part to the pickles and Dijon, but it’s only made even better by the funk of the sourdough. Also, dill-flavored Havarti cheese? Sign me up. The sprouts give it that beautiful crunch, and I dare say it is the perfect sandwich. Pro tip: If you’re like me and love dipping your sandwiches, I highly recommend getting a side of sun-dried tomato tapenade. Life-changing stuff right there.
The Matcha
When I tell you I am so picky about my matcha, I mean that with my whole chest. It should be grassy in a balanced way, where you get hit with some of its natural sweetness. And, I stand by this, it should be able to be enjoyed plain, with no syrup. I shouldn’t feel like I fell into a pile of freshly cut lawn trimmings. Swedish Hills has, dare I say, the best matcha in Austin. Specifically, their location in Westlake. It’s the perfect color and is genuinely refreshing without the evil clumps of powder that get stuck in your straw and leave a bitter taste. If you absolutely must get a syrup: Get the lavender. It’s light and gives just the right touch of lavender without tasting like a luxury hand soap.
The hand pie
Dare I say the best thing on the menu? At the time of writing this, they have a “dark berry” one, and it’s the perfect sweet treat. In the words of my dad, it’s “like a Pop-Tart got a graduate degree,” and in the words of my friend Donna, “Shut up right now, that’s so good.” There is not a better descriptor. Every inch is covered in caramelized sugar that makes the crunch so satisfying, and inside is everything you want it to be. The berry tastes so summery in a way that makes me long for the beach. It’s got such a lovely zing to it that cuts through the intense sweetness. Also, you know how when you bite into an empanada and there’s always one bit that’s only crust. This does not happen with the hand pie. Jam is stuffed into every crevice of that thing, so there is no such thing as a bad bite while eating. If there is anything you get here. I beg you to let it be this. Complimentary flavors: Get the iced matcha latte with this, it will not disappoint.
The Chia Seed Pudding
I know chia seed pudding is supposed to be healthy, and I’m sure theirs is, but it absolutely does not taste like it. It’s giving dessert in disguise, in the best way. There’s this vanilla-coconut situation happening that makes it feel borderline indulgent instead of #hittingmyhealthgoals. Also, a moment for the Greek yogurt at Swedish Hill, it doesn’t taste like yogurt, it tastes like crème fraîche. I’m not asking questions. The coconut flakes on top add that perfect crunch moment, like just enough texture to keep things interesting. And the berries? Actually sweet, not those sad, sour ones that ruin the vibe. It’s one of those things you order, thinking you’re being healthy, and realize you accidentally made the best choice on the menu.