Bolaget is a trendy French restaurant in the heart of Visby. “Bolaget” means “the company”, but the name originates from another word known to every Swede - “Systembolaget” which is the name of the Swedish government-owned alcohol monopoly retail chain.
This building was originally constructed in the 1700s and has been used for a variety of purposes over the years, including as a grocery store and a warehouse. Systembolaget opened its store here in 1955, the same year as the rationing of alcohol ended (also called Bratt System, read more
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bratt_System). In the early 2000s the place was renovated and converted into a restaurant. The name "Bolaget" was chosen as a reference to the building's past. All they had to do was to unscrew the first six letters on the facade: “System” was gone and “bolaget” remained. Just look at the facade and you will see traces of the removed part of the sign on the left. Systembolaget might be gone but the good choice of wine remains, come here for a drink or dinner and you will not be disappointed. Stop by the old wine cabinet at the entrance and take in a piece of history. The cabinet is a relic from Systembolaget.
