IKEA Christmas Buffet!!! - Julbord (A Christmas Table) full of Swedish Foods

Of all places to find a buffet! I would have never expected to see a buffet at IKEA, yet we've stumbled onto just that! -- an amazing Christmas buffet hosted by IKEA! A pleasant surprise and a wonderful experience as IKEA went all out with great food to building a festive atmosphere -- a great way to begin the holidays.
From reading the comments, it appears that most IKEAs, from North America to China, are offering these events...
Please note that each store seems to decide when they schedule these buffets and they're only on selected days... I think you'll need to purchase these tickets at the IKEA store in advance -- a little inconvenient, but this is a way for them to avoid overcrowding the day of the buffet. Check out your particular store's website under the community section for details... Hope you get a chance to try it... :-)
Great food including their famous meatballs, delicious salmon, shrimp appetizers, ham, turkey -- an amazing spread!
It's very nice of IKEA to throw such a well run event -- where families and individuals can enjoy the festivities while making it affordable so that those with somewhat limited means can still enjoy. A very nice way to build up a close community.
Happy Dining!!!
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[@josephlim8941]

Great video Tim. You might want to advise your viewers this was a one time event and is over now. You wouldn’t want your viewers to run over their with their families and find that out. Then get mad at you. Just advice

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks Joseph for the comment and the suggestion... I'll update the description and pin your comment at the top -- hopefully this will advise everyone. It was quite a good event and wished IKEA would publicize this a bit more -- I kinda stumbled onto this by accident myself ... apparently every store does it differently. Thanks again! :-)

[@josephlim8941]

Tim Lee Yeah I’ve never heard of it until you’ve vlog it. Maybe you could give us a heads up next year. And must of required tickets to be pre-sold. Cannot imagine they can serve unlimited number of customers. Looks like a wonderful event. Thanks Tim

[@bwwirving5762]

Joseph Lim such suttle shots; hah jabs but you guys understand what happened

[@Roberttang20]

@@TimLeeLetsGo in Sweden you can get it as well, usually around late november until christmas ish.

[@Roberttang20]

@@TimLeeLetsGo If you are gonna have it in Sweden I do recommended you not to have it at Ikea but a legit Christmas buffet spot , they usually use a lot more quality ingredients and usually taste better too.

[@cademancaden]

Plot twist: Tim just crashed Ikea's employee Christmas party

[@Jan2times]

Cademan Caden that was what I thought!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

LOL -- Crashing an IKEA staff party wouldn't be bad either :-)

[@TesttestTesttest-ls6dk]

Yeah some version of Shutter Island

[@ninjacrumbs]

Again Tim, being a past line cook, I am so pleased that you ALWAYS give love to the people preparing the food!! Much respect from Tokyo!!!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hello Ninja-san! Thank you :-) What an amazing city to be in! Tokyo looks absolutely amazing -- would love to be able to visit one day :-)

[@harvstralosik678]

Amazing people that work there also, respect from sweden

[@anderspettersson2958]

Hi Tim! As a Swede with lots of connections in the US it was great to see what IKEA puts on their Christmas buffet over there... looks like a mix of both Swedish and American traditional holiday specials. Thanks for sharing! If you ever come to Sweden around Christmas time please let me know, and I will take you to some traditional Christmas buffets, and maybe even to IKEA as a comparison!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hi Anders! Sincerely, this means so much and thank you! Same goes to you! Next time you're in Vancouver Canada, let me know! Will love to show you around :-)

[@sweetmslovinglife]

If he doesn’t come, I will.

[@cadefoster9279]

What a great surprise and the quality of food looks very high thank you for finding this gem!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks Cade -- it was a nice find -- a few friend called up and we might be going again :-)

[@torycook1215]

Love your buffet videos. Keep them coming, Tim.🤗👍

[@alexiagautier2383]

You are so kind! Thank you for sharing this video!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

I could not have imagined a more enjoyable Ikea trip!

[@Loong97]

Thank you for the video. I learned something everyday; I had never heard The X'mas dinner in IKEA before!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hey Loong97... It was a surprise for me too🙂

[@lindaatamian1092]

Another wonderful video, Tim. Merry Christmas!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks Linda! A belated Merry Christmas and wish you all the best for the new year!!

[@SquidandCatAdventures]

Thanks for reminding me about this. I'll try to catch it next year if they do it again.

[@karolinjimenez2094]

The deserts look soooo delicious

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

I've always wanted to try all the deserts at IKEA and this such a great opportunity to do so :-)

[@magalibel5476]

Thx a lot for sharing Tim ! New great vid ! Everything looks delicious especially the veggies with meatballs ! Enjoy !

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks again Magali! It was a surprisingly nice find...though IKEA is a bit of an odd place, but fun...

[@magalibel5476]

@@TimLeeLetsGo thx for answering everytime ! It's very kindly ! Warmful hugs from France ! 😊

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

@@magalibel5476 how terrific to be in France! Are you visiting or is that home?

[@magalibel5476]

@@TimLeeLetsGo my home is on the French Riviera... 😊

[@suecastillo4056]

Thanks for sharing Tim!!!

[@rickjansson4391]

What a great video. I’ve not been to my local IKEA in probably 8 years. I’d be all over that herring! Food looked really nice!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hi Rick, LoL -- 8 years is a long time! Aside from the food, IKEA is not the most enjoyable place -- (not a big fan of furniture shopping/assembling here). Herring was really good :-) Thanks :-)

[@Milaaa_01]

I'm having the IKEA Buffet in Germany tonight. Can't wait! You made me hungry😁

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Great to hear milaaa! Hope you enjoy ... Curious to know how it is.. especially in Germany!

[@judyc6694]

I just saw our local ikea in California posting this event for dec 2019 but no menu. Thank you for the video! Hubby declined but my 15 yr old is game. He hopes there will be chicken tenders but he will be happy with the meatballs! The food looked pretty good and I have to applaud your mom for raiding such a considerate young man who thanks the hard working food prep and servers. 👍. Can’t wait!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hey Judy, we just went to the IKEA Julbord tonight with some friends to start off the holiday celebration...can't really go wrong with the price and it's quite enjoyable (and a bit unique/memorable). Did you have the chance to go already?

[@keenabrown4144]

Tim love your videos I love buffets but since being sick I have not been able to enjoy a buffet so thank you for letting me enjoy thru your videos

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hello Keena, I wish you speedy recovery :-) Thank you for your comment as well! Take care :-)

[@carolefravel372]

This looks really good Tim.

[@singingallalone]

Yay! I love your vlogs! “IKEA Christmas Buffet” as the title and I was so ready to see what they did. Very cool! IKEA is so smart. They know that they just need to get people into their store to make money. With their $15 buffet I’m sure they made way more when people walked around after and bought other stuff. Good marketing. That’s why IKEA will always stay in business. Good food is so happy! MERRY CHRISTMAS! 🌲

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hey Christa, believe it or not, even though it was IKEA food, I was quite excited about this :-) I do enjoy the IKEA food in general and they certainly made it quote festive... Yes, my friend Chris ended up buying a desk afterwards :-) Guess who had to drive it to his place ;-)

[@singingallalone]

Hahaha that cracks me up! I like IKEA food too. I just live so far from ikea I only get to go when I come to Vancouver. But then I have so many other food options. One of my favourites is Antone’s in Burnaby. Best pasta!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

@@singingallalone ahhh yes... Antone's... back in my university days, that was quite a hefty meal -- always looked forward to it... Great food, great portions, and the leftovers were particularly good :-) Really nice place!

[@singingallalone]

Tim Lee I love making pasta but their potions are massive. My ex finished his whole meal both times we went there. They used to give you the meal for free if you finished the whole thing. But now they just give you a pen. lol

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

@@singingallalone this is really bringing back memories...ahhh, back in the days where eating habits were of no concern 🙂. I must say, not really missing the carbs even when thinking back about all that delicious food.

[@dwaynewladyka577]

That food looks amazing. Great video.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks so much Dwayne!!! :-)

[@ninjacrumbs]

That Cambrea(?) girl with the brussel sprouts and bacon; what beautiful facial symmetry she has!!! And a knock-out smile, to boot!!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Agreed -- and an amazing spirit as well... :-)

[@sdiego2011]

Is absolutely great for IKEA to make it such affordable for this feastive season. I wish our IKEA here has such festive & affordable buffet too. Thanks for sharing bro!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks yinsing 🙂

[@audreybrown6440]

How wonderful it all looks

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks Audrey - wasn't sure what to expect from an IKEA buffet, but it was a fantastic dinner :-)

[@treasurehuntfoodies]

That looks amazingly delicious!! I had no idea even the famous Swedish meatballs!! Thanks so much for sharing!! I'm a total foodie and just found your channel to see more!!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hey fellow KZbinr :-) Really like your vids as well. What an amazing place -- really liking your videos as well from new Orleans :-) Wish I was there...

[@treasurehuntfoodies]

@@TimLeeLetsGo thanks so much, we are going to Vegas soon and we are hoping to hit some buffets. We are going now to check your other videos now!!

[@MikeZ32TT]

Crazy. Looks good too. Thanks Tim.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

It was quite a pleasant surprise, Mike -- really didn't know what to expect :-)

[@Peaches100]

fantastic video tim!!! keep up the good work!!! : )))

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks so much Veronika -- greatly appreciated -- who would have thought they would have a buffet there!

[@TheBaoGirls]

This looks so good Tim! We need to see the Ikea in Vancouver has good christmas buffet like this!!!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks The Bao Girls... Are you vloggers as well? Where are you from?

[@TheBaoGirls]

@@TimLeeLetsGo We are from Vancouver BC. and yes we are! We posted our first vlog haha more to come soon!

[@TrinaMCay]

Hi Tim! Great video! Keep it up man!:):)... Fyi i never skip ad to support you!:):)

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks again 🙂... Just enjoy interacting with the KZbin community such as yourself 🙂. Appreciate the gesture though

[@Nonduality]

You could sell t-shirts that say, "Let's Give It A Try."

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hi Nonduality -- gosh, it's surprising to watch and see how much repetition of phrases there were.. :-) Cheers

[@Nonduality]

@@TimLeeLetsGo Keep going, you're doing a great job!

[@franksalsa9342]

Love buffet channel 😄

[@bridgetdraper8671]

Even if this something that can't be enjoyed in my local Ikea... I enjoyed the adventure you stumbled upon in this one. That's what you do for me... Take me on journeys I otherwise would not have had... For that I'm truly grateful! You are a beautiful soul! You have love for life, places, people and food- all the best of life found through these connections. Our world lacks human connection. We all just need to love life, pull together and share our resources! World fellowship days; everyone bring a dish!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

This was quite a surprise for us as well. This was the last place we would have expected to offer a Christmas buffet and definitely had to try it out. Very grateful that everyone there were very good sports. Thank you again! :-)

[@terridavis9278]

Wow who knew. The food looks great.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Same here Terri! It was a total surprise -- but a nice find :-)

[@SC-uq2jf]

Hi Tim,New subbie here in NYC. Your voice and demeanor are so pleasant, good luck in all of your future endeavors.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks so much S C -- much appreciated. Cheers!

[@mrbadx19]

Being Swedish, living 3 miles from an Ikea, never knew there would be so much, might have to check it out.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hey mr bad example, would love to see what you think about their interpretation of Swedish food :-)

[@jeannecooke4862]

Beautiful Buffet!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

LOL -- quite a festive event at IKEA -- who would have thoutht :-)

[@upstatenewyork]

Looked like a nice time.

[@cassandramcewen8391]

So amazing

[@cyoohoos]

I just like looking at the food so I love your camera work.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks so much cyoohoos! Much appreciate the complement. It's just my phone and a very steady hand -- helps that they didn't server any alcohol ;-)

[@debbie5620]

Yummy Tim. That dime cake looked amazing

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks Debbie...oh, I can't believe that Christmas is right around the corner!

[@stefanaharris3782]

The IKEA in Norfolk, Va. is opening any day now!! Can’t wait!!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hi Stefana! Get your allen keys and screw drivers ready :-)

[@justjacqueline2004]

What a great idea for those of us of limited means.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

These are certainly really well run events. Very festive and great value!

[@ashton8878]

Looks delicious!!!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks Nye... It was quite a nice event and a nice surprise. Give it a try if you get the chance... Just have to check which stores are offering this (and when)...

[@twizzlerlover91]

Imagine Christmas dinner at an IKEA! Fabulous idea ! Absolutely worth $15. I normally don’t eat carbs,but that crostini and scallops would have taken up 1/2 my plate. Then of course the lox(skip the greens 😂) ,deviled eggs and turkey. I googled Daim cake and definitely would have found a way to sneak some out! TY ❤️

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hey Merrill, I was quite impressed with IKEA and hats off to them for making a great event affordable to many people. They really put significant effort in this event... Great way to support the community 🙂

[@gloriawinbush1590]

Scrumptious 🥰🤤😋.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Always love IKEA food

[@cjcutter1571]

Great one Tim eating some cheesy slices of pizza watching!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

That's a pretty good meal in itself CJ!

[@Nettiaz]

Ah now im gonna go to the ikea buffet in Sweden. Looks good!👍😊

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

LOL -- have you been to Sweden, Nattiaz? :-)

[@Nettiaz]

@@TimLeeLetsGo I'm swedish and live in Sweden 🙂

[@erikandersson6145]

The orginal one

[@wjspiak]

Swedish meatballs with gravy with the Marion Berry sauce... I'm Swedish and they are close to my heart.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Definitely my favorite food as well 😋

[@flaminggmonkeyss]

such an underrated christmas feast, went last year for the first time, it was so good, not a place you'd think of having Christmas dinner

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

It’s kinda nice… Actually a few people in Sweden commented that Ikea was not the ideal representation of the Julbord.. ;-)

[@flaminggmonkeyss]

@@TimLeeLetsGo oh dang lol well its still a delicious meal nonetheless in an unexpected place

[@PrincessAfterDark]

That's so neat

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hi Kim -- yeah, it was very different and a very good experience... who knew?!?! :-)

[@videopokerwynn]

Tim Lee: You knew I would be seeing this and you didn't give me a single WOW to count. LOL You even got your large plate for desserts. It was a very impressive spread for sure, many of the items looked home made rather than the casino production food. Lets see if next time you can find a Wallmart buffet. LOL Always enjoy your videos. WynnWynn

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hi Wynn Wynn... thanks for the suggestions... the wow control was harder than you would imagine... Kinda nice to reflect and give yourself a personal challenge... Actually, quite impressed with the spirit of this event...liked the way IKEA made this accessible to pretty much everyone without having to break the bank inorder to have a nice celebration.

[@kurtis7975]

Looks like the one in Coquitlam. Nailed it .

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

You got it Kurtis 🙂

[@dianecranker6026]

What a great idea and still we don't have a Ikea within 100 miles of here. Haha. It all looked delicious. Thanks Tim.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks Diane! That's good to know and surprised they haven't opened up one there.. seems like the Nashville area would be a perfect place, but then again -- not sure whether the appetite is there for Swedish food :-)

[@dianecranker6026]

Trust me we have an appetite for everything . haha. I am in a tiny community south of Nashville. But I do have go ldedn corral. Have bbeen to a few and our is best to me.🤗💚👍🏽🍽👍🏽

[@dianecranker6026]

Even Golden Corral is 44 miles away.

[@danimoney3087]

Thank you Tim - Happy Holiday to you and your family !! ( no chance Ikea in nyc will offer that LOL

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Do check it out Dan! They do not announce these events very well -- I had to check their website and it was buried somewhere. A few people commented that most of the stores have it, even all the way over in China. Check it out if you get chance! Happy holidays to you and your family too Dan!

[@danimoney3087]

@@TimLeeLetsGo Thank you so much , i will do that .

[@DavidSriracha]

Very nice video Tim..thank you for sharing this experience with us..is this buffet available for all Ikea location ? If it is ..I might give it a try ..Xmas is 16 days away ..that's crazy 😲

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks David -- time is going by so quickly... I think most stores should have it -- just need to check... Some people are mentioning that the IKEAs in China has it also. Just need to check their website as each store offers this on specific dates. Just need to plan ahead and you might need to purchase your tickets a few days in advance -- they limit the seating so as not to overcrowd the buffet :-)

[@DavidSriracha]

@@TimLeeLetsGo Thanks Tim for the info ..I just missed the one in Houston by 2 days..it was on Friday December 7 =(

[@angelherbert1616]

MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone

[@parrishdaniel3086]

love your video I'm in Delaware no buffet like the one you go to

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks again Parrish Daniel -- I wonder if the other IKEAs offer this. Someone from Houston (and even all the way as far as China) mentioned their IKEA stores were offering this...

[@droneships]

I would describe the taste of the vintersaga drink as a liquefied Christmas tree. It is the essence of Christmas in drink form.

[@daryg352]

Yes!!! 🤗🤗🤗

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks Dary Marko :-)

[@SparkzMxzXZ]

organising such a spread at home would cost quite a bit. so nice that ikea does it at a very reasonable price.

[@Souliona]

The Swede in me cant resist to comment, it's not thaaaat swedish haha, it seems to me they have switched out a lot of the swedish food to more classic American Christmas food like Turkey and sweetpotatoes etc etc. Nothing wrong with that ofc but had I been there id expect a full Christmas table with swedish food and not American! Mind you I've been to this in the Swedish Ikea and it was a lot different.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks Sarah_ 🙂. Nice to know it's been Americanized a bit...very curious to see what the traditional julbord will be like... Are you in Sweden now?

[@Souliona]

@@TimLeeLetsGo Yes I am in Sweden atm ;) And it differs quite a lot from this Haha! Our Christmas food is very traditional, and in that comes recipes that are made out of the kind of ingredients that were available in Sweden in the old days. So for example the avocado toast made me laugh a bit cuz it's just not really what grew in Sweden in the early 1900s lol. So serve that to a swede at Christmas time and they would give you a weird look! Would be cool if you would find some more authentic swedish restaurant and visit, try some real Julbord and see if you like it or not 😁

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

@@Souliona Thanks -- LOL, I should have realized that avocado toast wasn't traditional :-) Thanks again!

[@floricalazareanu1754]

U can also BUY that cake at the restaurant ,were u get hot dogs...used to buy it often...the BEST CAKE!!!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Yeah, I've been buying those cakes for my friends' kids -- quite addictive I must say :-)

[@dellamiller324]

Merry Christmas Tim

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thank you so much Della! Merry Christmas to you too!!!

[@JustinNgim]

I can't wait to give it a try -- Tim Lee

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

I hope they bring it back this Christmas! I'll definitely be thereof they do😉

[@JustinNgim]

@@TimLeeLetsGo today my wife and I watched your videos for 4 hours, the weather was too cold and chilli outside to go anywhere so we stayed indoors and your videos were so enjoyable to watch! God bless you sir Tim.

[@sallychipman9857]

Does that ikea generally have a restaurant? Of everything they served could you buy it in the store? It did look good.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hi Sally, that IKEA has the cafeteria -- they converted their eating area into a Christmas themed area -- very nicely done. Actually, I've been getting comments that many IKEAs in North America (and even China) has this event. It appears to be run by each store -- and the store sets the specific dates etc. Pretty nice and an unexpected but pleasant surprise :-)

[@goodi2shooz]

I wish they would do another because apparently they all do it on the same day and only once. And we missed it

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hi Goodi2shooz -- Check your local stores -- a few people commented that they are still going on at some stores -- I think each location is different and they have different selective dates. Check out their website -- this event seems to be buried in their community events section though...

[@90114ylloP]

Tim, did you buy tickets in advance? I did this a few years back. Love that you showed it all. No princess cake?

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hey 90114! Are you filming too? Great channel! I was chatting a lot with someone in Houston that's filming (DavidSriracha). I found out about the buffet by chance during a visit to IKEA -- I did have to buy a ticket first for a specific date. It was a nice surprise. I never had a princess cake before, but am so curious now.... :-)

[@90114ylloP]

Tim Cool - I will check out David. I film a little here and there but I missed Julebord this year. 😭.

[@letsbehonest4221]

Its $30 for ikea Christmas buffet here in Australia .

[@jacintawong3639]

Hi Tim , thanks for sharing the IKEA Festive Buffet. Is that the Richmond Store you are filming? The food look amazing and delicious . IKEA did a good job for supply a wonderful meal, only for $15.00 . surprise me too, never expected to see a Buffet at IKEA. I will fine out , is there a Xmas Buffet at the Burnaby Store ? Thanks again for letting us know ,

[@marsneedstowels]

That's definitely the Coquitlam IKEA.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Yes @marsneedstowels has it correct. It was the Coquitlam store (but I think they have finished).. The Richmond store is still running this though.... I noticed each store runs the buffet on select days. Richmond has this going on during the weekday, but you have to plan ahead. You actually need to get your tickets and book your time in advance. It's a little inconvenient, but it does help from overcrowding the buffet.

[@mpcat7958]

hope they have this post covid as id like to try it

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Me too!

[@kirksmith1534]

The Dickens you say ‼️🥂

[@Tony2Ton]

Hi Tim! this is a cool video. i wonder if all Ikea are like this. i'll have to find out. thanks for the video. new sub here and ringing the bell

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks for your support Tony! ... and much appreciated. I heard from the comments that most Ikeas are doing this (even in China). Yeah, each store has their own schedules for these events so good to check. Tags again

[@erikandersson6145]

In Sweden we have real Julbord. The best and orginal

[@susanc.4242]

Arghhh...I missed your reply to my recent question about the holiday celebrations that you like to go out to restaurants for a meal. @tim You've been in TO! My old diner's group went to Brownstones on Thanksgiving. It was nice to be among some new friends for that dinner

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Ooh... Thanksgiving is coming up isn't it 😋

[@susanc.4242]

@@TimLeeLetsGo It was actually Blake House for Thanksgiving before pandemic with my group (not Brownstones). Do you have a Thanksgiving dinner video?

[@letstraveleatandplay]

We love IKEA

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Certainly love IKEA here as well -- though they do get you in the end with purchases here and there for furniture etc.... Always a bit poorer walking out ;-)

[@DesiMapleDiaries02]

Which city is this IKEA in Tim? It looks delicious and so festive. BTW amazing work, I just discovered you

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thank you so much, this was the Ikea in Vancouver. More precisely Coquitlam, but I've heard they have these at many other stores around the world. Thank you again so much all the best to you 🙂

[@pamh.5705]

I had heard for some time about the "wonderful" Swedish meatballs at IKEA & how little they charged for them. After they opened a store here a friend & I went to find a lamp for her place & decided to eat while there. The meatballs were dried out & chewey, had some gluey gravy on them, side dishes were nearly inedible! With that example, I don't know that I'd want to try the smorgasbord!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hopefully that's just opening day issues. Hopefully they'll get better...

[@pamh.5705]

@@TimLeeLetsGo Unfortunately they had been open for months at that point. 😦

[@erikak8665]

The gravy is called Gräddsås 😂 What were the sidedishes? My guess is lingonberries 😁

[@jreinel1966]

Ikea is an awesome place to eat very healthy food!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hi Jose R Suarez -- Everything there was quite lean and yet very tasty. Really good!

[@mackman1480]

Ikea has decent food but the christmas buffet looks like they went all out and at a very reasonable price. Is this by chance the ikea in Burnaby BC. Good video tim keep up the good work from Manitoba.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks Mack Man! Hope things are well in Manitoba; hope you stay warm :-) Many folks there (including me) were quite impressed with the event especially with IKEA keeping this affordable for families during the holiday season. Very well done on their part. Thank you again for reaching out. All the best!

[@PatrickMandap]

It appears it's only for a couple of days, and it was last week only. It would've been nice. Maybe next year.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hello Patrick... are you from Vancouver? It seems like every store has their own schedule... (If you're from Vancouver, the Richmond location is offering this for this week and next). I'd check the individual stores to see their schedules. I guess they try not to have multiple stores offering these on the same nights...

[@PatrickMandap]

I’m in Southern California. So it’s going to be either the Costa Mesa or Burbank store.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

@@PatrickMandap I envy where you are... It's so cold and wet in Vancouver 🙂. Actually...just planning a nice getaway to LA shortly 🙂

[@PatrickMandap]

@@TimLeeLetsGo Awesome!!! Yea, it's chilly here too. Mid to low 50's at night, and mid to high 70's during the day. Not as wet. I hope you have a great time when you visit. There's many ways to enjoy LA - the usual tourist stuff, off the beaten path stuff, historical stuff, and of course FOODIE STUFF!

[@LucaK]

You actually pour a spoon of the nuts and raisins into the cup of Glögg (the spicy wine you had) :D

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks dargonlord! Much appreciate you sharing your tradition! Gotta try the Glögg properly... getting quite a few suggestions to try Julmust as well and quite curious 🙂

[@erikak8665]

@@TimLeeLetsGo It's almost time for Påskmust! (the same thing, påsk = easter)

[@ernestojr.acosta972]

A buffet at IKEA? Now I’ve seen everything.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

LOL -- Totally agree Ernesto :-) I couldn't believe it myself -- just stumbled onto this...

[@Asa...S]

In Sweden this is normal, they have it every year, every day from the end of November to until December 23rd. They also have a brunch buffet (with meatballs, bacon, scrambled eggs, pancakes, jam, bread, marmelade, juice, yogurt, cereal, fruits) every morning between 09.30-11.00 am. The Swedish julbord or smörgåsbord is the original buffet, it's where the idea came from and then later spread to the rest of the world after the 1939 New York World's Fair exhibition.

[@portalplayer]

I can’t believe all that is for $15. Quite the good price

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

It's quite a nice event... Very nice that IKEA makes it affordable 🙂.. especially for families during the holidays

[@johanfagerstromjarlenfors]

It costs the same in sweden :)

[@allanmoore4840]

Who knew that IKEA did more than meatballs.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Same here Allan -- a nice surprise :-)

[@dwarren1010]

I am going to this event tonight but it's $25. But this video inspired me to go. Burlington Ontario Canada. Looks like you had it way better. No music. No crustinis. Better placemats. No veggie balls. No sausage. No scallop potatoes. No brussel sprouts with bacon. We were cramped into a corner. No mulled wine

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hey Dave, believe it or not, I just went with a few friends at our local Ikea. Very affordable for everyone and a great way to connect.. Hope you had a great time!

[@dwarren1010]

@@TimLeeLetsGo overall the food was great except the turkey was dry.

[@user-qd8lf1ql1v]

@@dwarren1010 I agree Dave I really do it was awful

[@dwarren1010]

@@user-qd8lf1ql1v Thanks Kermit

[@erikak8665]

Scallopf potatoes, turkey and bacon aren't authentic julbord's food any way... Last year, 50% of the IKEA julbord in Sweden was vegan 😍

[@teresabaltazar8079]

Wow, did not know Ikea offered this dinner...M❄M of 5

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hi Teresa, I must say I'm pretty impressed with Ikea with this event...very well done a accessible to most families as they kept the costs really reasonable... holidays can get quite expensive... especially for families

[@Asa...S]

As a Swede I would've been really disappointed if I was expecting a julbord and was served this. Not that it's bad, but not what you'd expect. It's like if someone was serving traditional Americal Christmas food and there were no Turkey, and stuff you would expect. But I guess IKEA have to adapt the menu to the taste buds to the country you're in, I think IKEA have this "When in Rome"-attitude. If someone thinks they tried a lot of traditional Swedish foods at this buffet, I think IKEA fooled them, because It looks like it's just the Christmas ham, the meatballs, some of the herring, and the mulled wine are the only things that are similar to the julbord they serve at IKEA in Sweden. Here there are like 7 different types of pickled herring, a potato dish called Janssons Frestelse, little sausages, and different kinds of smoked sausage, roast beaf, brawn, liver pate, several kinds of mustard, beet sallad, gingerbread, rice pudding, almond cakes with jam and whipped cream and so on. And to drink: Julmust! It's a must!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks Åsa S, very good to know -- someone mentioned the lack of prince sausage in another comment.. Are those the little sausages? You really got me intrigued with all the food there -- would be curious about the brawn and the Julmust... I guess Ikea is the closest we can get to the traditional foods over here... Are you currently in Sweden?

[@Asa...S]

​@@TimLeeLetsGo Yes, I'm in Sweden. IKEA usually do have Julmust, even in other countries, their own brand, I think they call it "Vintersaga" or somehing like that ("Winter fairy tale) during the winter. It's not the best brand though, but it's good enough, at least to get a feeling of what it taste like. It's a bit like rootbeer, but different. There is only one family who know the recipe, and they sell the essence to all the other company's who make their own julmust. Julmust is so connected to Christmas for Swedes, perhaps it's what's called an aquired taste, most can't imagine Christmas without it. It's a seasonal thing, we only drink it in November-December (Well, then there is Påskmust too, which is the same think with a different label, that we drink around Easter...). But it has annoyed CocaCola for decades. In Sweden their sales go down in December by 50 %, because Swedes buy Julmust instead, and in the early 2000s they had massive marketing campains every Christmas to make us change, they doubled their marketing budget for Sweden, millions went into their mission to get the Swedes to think of CocaCola as the Christmas drink above any other. and tried to buy the secret recipe from the family. But they refuse to sell. It's really a David vs Goliat story... So then Coca-Cola then rethinked their strategy, and went with, "If we can't beat them, join them!", and did like every other company that sells julmust does, they had to buy the julmust essence from the little family company. So Coca-Cola company made their own Julmust called Bjäre, thinking they could fool the Swedes by using an old Swedish company name, and they launched heavy marketing campains for it, and teamed up with McDonalds and got them to offer their julmust there also. They failed. For some years you could only find it at McDonalds, and then it disappeared. Sorry, long story... Now I've hyped julmust so much that you'll be really disappointed when you try it. Because I don't think it's not that special for someone who hasn't grown up with the taste of it. The brawn is usually something I skip to eat at Christmas. It's a mash of different meats and gelatin. You can google "Julsylta" (Christmas brawn) if you want to see what it looks like. Yes, the "prince sausages" are little sausages, I wouldn't say that those are that special either. But it's just something that _should_ be there. The thing I like the most on the Swedish Christmas table is the Janssons frestelse, and it's very easy to make yourself if you're able to find the key ingredient, pickled sprats (not anshovies, a lot of American recipes got this wrong, because the pickled sprats are called ansjovis in Swedish, but it's not the same thing) . It's basically a potato casserole, with lots of heavy cream, onions the pickled sprats and bread crumbs and butter on top to make it crispy. It's delicious. Hope you get to try Swedish Christmas food sometime! I think it's pretty funny that a furniture store has been able to spread Swedish food traditions all over the world. We owe the founder Ingvar Kamprad, who passed away earlier this year, a lot for showing our country to the world. So I raise my glass, of julmust, and say Skål Ingvar!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

@@Asa...S what a great story! Love the fact that there are just some traditions that big corporations and money cannot win. Brawn sounds like something I would like and you have certainly got me with the potato casserole when you mentioned heavy cream 😋. Thanks again!

[@erikak8665]

@@Asa...S My family still have tounge every year too 😂

[@vonlipi]

I need to find out if they have this in Quebec!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hi vonlipi -- hope things are well in Quebec! Is that home or are you visiting? Hoping to get to go to the sugar shacks there one day :-)

[@vonlipi]

I live in Quebec. But I only go to Ikea once a year....lol it stresses me out!

[@TheEqualizer-iw1bz]

Thanks for the video. I saw it advertised at Ikea Australia website for next month (Dec 2019) but didn’t know what food was available. Now I’m tempted to go for $30 (haven’t fully made up my mind yet...). (Update) I’ve decided to go, I’ve bought my ticket!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

It's a pretty good experience. Was this in the Richmond Victoria, Au store? We have a city in my area named Richmond as well... A few friend were about to mistakenly purchase tickets to that location :-)

[@TheEqualizer-iw1bz]

Tim Lee : Hi Tim, I’m in Adelaide. I’ve decided to go, I’ve bought my ticket!

[@erikak8665]

@@TheEqualizer-iw1bz Now I'm curious, what did they have there? The same as in Canada or something different? 😊

[@TheEqualizer-iw1bz]

I photographed the menu! Tip is to get everything first, because if you comeback for something you haven’t tried, it’s gone! ALREADY ON THE TABLE: Sparkling Apple or Pear Juice, I think. (1 Bottle per table. It’s the types that Ikea sells.) Tip is to sit at an empty table, and take the leftover bottle home! LIGHT BITES: 1) Herring fillets w/ toasted flatbread, yoghurt & fresh herbs. 2) Eggs & shrimp w/ dill mayonnaise & seaweed pearls. 3) Marinated salmon w/ mustard & dill sauce. 4) Chicken & tarragon sausages. MAIN COURSE: 1) Roasted turkey breast w/ lingonberry jus. 2) Baked ham w/ mustard. 3) Baked salmon w/ dill, olive oil & capers. 4) Mustard-glazed meatballs. 5) Veggie balls & cabbage w/ Ost Prast semi-hard cheese. ON THE SIDE: 1) Potato salad w/ fresh herbs. 2) Beetroot salad. 3) Traditional Swedish baked potato gratin. 4) Baby cos (romaine) lettuce salad w/ peas, toasted flatbread croutons & creamy cheese dressing. SOMETHING SAVOURY: 1) Cheese board. 2) Crispbreads. 3) Soft flatbread. SOMETHING SWEET: 1) Apple cake. 2) Ginger thins. 3) Princess cake. 4) Passionfruit cheesecake. 5) Not listed is a Chocolate Dome filled with crushed hazelnuts?, coffee flavoured (it’s absolutely delicious, I ate a few!).

[@TheEqualizer-iw1bz]

Tim Lee : Hey Tim, I forgot to report back. I had a great time, and will go again. I’ve typed out the menu!

[@wendyshoo3476]

How much buffet???

[@breffaloco]

Not really a swedish Julbord but does got the starts...I'd say it appeases the american christmas more, But im american so I know lol.. Missing the Prins Korv and Jansonns which is my favorite

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thank you Kush! I've been learning so much about Swedish cuisine from the comments and really enjoying it. Jamsonns sounds like a dish I would really like -- and same with the prince sausage. I guess it kinda like meat and potatoes in some ways.. Thank you again! :-)

[@erikak8665]

@@breffaloco You forgot about Midsommar! 😂 Where we have all the cold parts of the julpåskbord 😁

[@Merecir]

Minus points for basic things missing from this 'Swedish' Julbord. -No strong mustard on the ham. -No Janssons Frestelse. -No boiled potatoes with the herring. -No snaps.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Points well noted, Merecir🙂. What are snaps by the way?

[@Merecir]

@@TimLeeLetsGo en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snaps

[@itisjulia]

@@TimLeeLetsGo Snaps is a shot of strong alcohol, usually akvavit or some other brännvin. We usually drink it after singing snapsvisor (short songs about drinking/getting drunk). Snaps is not only drunk during Christmas, but we also drink it at Easter, Midsummer, and basically all other holidays.

[@sandrajohansson1516]

​@@TimLeeLetsGobrännvin hehe he means things like vodka .the pcikled hering need some thing to swim in:D

[@ranbirsandhu567]

dude what wrong with you; its a buffet in a furniture store. why would you expect these things?

[@rontsumura667]

Hey Tim Awsome good to know IKEA to let me know I might check it out which ikea is that

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hi Ron, it's interesting as IKEA doesn't do a very good job announcing these events. I went to the one in Coquitlam but they only had it last week. The Richmond location is offering the buffets as well on selected days next week and the week after. Check out their website under the community section -- you need to get the ticket first as they tend to sell out well in advance. (I guess it's their way to keep the event from being overcrowded). Hope you get a chance to check it out... Cheers

[@rontsumura667]

Thanks Tim for the info

[@shibilv]

Nice video... never know this , I would like to try it. But how to buy that ticket? Just go to the store?

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hi shibilv, it seems most stores offer this but on selective evenings.. It's a bit inconvenient, but they sell the tickets at the store for a particular night... I guess this is the way they keep the event from being over-crowded.. It's a bit of a hassle to get the ticket in advance, but it was a nice event... Thanks again :-)

[@shibilv]

@@TimLeeLetsGo thank you Tim, I check NY that stores, didnt find this info. so maybe next time.

[@TesttestTesttest-ls6dk]

That salmon looks awesome. Remember, these days fruit is not really considered for health.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hey Testtest13! I totally agree with you wrt the fruit :-) ...too much sugar :-)

[@erikak8665]

It usually comes with a dill and mustard sauce 😊

[@geno5360]

They offer these in the US?!

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hi Geno, I believe they are offering these throughout different countries but each store sets their dates... Some are running this until Christmas Eve (at least from what I've seen in the comments). Best to check your store's website

[@wizardfones4113]

how much was the buffet ?

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hi Wizard Fones, it was a while ago and being Ikea, it wasn't very expensive... likely around $15-$20 CAD. Very good for what it is... Take care!

[@FCocomilano2019]

😍Cheesecake

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

.... unlimited cheesecake 😉

[@andydashou]

I know in China many people go to IKEA only for the meat balls instead of any furniture. So I'm really curious about the secret of the meat balls, lol

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Thanks Andy -- the secret is in the sauce ;-)

[@ras124]

Cheap, don't buy furniture, lol

[@erikak8665]

The secret is... lingonberries 😁

[@BronsonWally]

Do you remember an approximate price ?

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hi Bronson, it was $15.99 per adult ( and cheaper for children). I'm from the Vancouver Canada area and each store offers this on select nights so some planning ahead is necessary.

[@SJPDurham]

Shame it’s a one time event. Love Ikea. I wish they would do that at my local Ikea.

[@TimLeeLetsGo]

Hi Simon -- check the local store website -- they might be doing this... I noticed none of the IKEA stores really advertise this -- I came across this by chance... Cheers :-)

[@hayyarbrough]

👍👍👍👍