On intention, hard work and finding moments of quiet

Jim’s path began long before he opened his first place. He talks about the values that formed him, and how naturally they became the foundation of his work today.

“I come from a bakery family and much of my drive has come from home. Hard work, a feeling for service, adapting to customers’ needs and being an attentive leader were obvious values for us.”

He grew up surrounded by the scent of freshly baked bread, shaped by the rhythm of a family devoted to its craft. Years later, as he opened his first restaurant, Jim had a clear vision of the kind of place he wanted to create.

“I saw every day what hard work and passion can create. When we opened our first restaurant, it was really about one thing: to create a place where we wanted to hang out ourselves.”

Today, sustainability is central to how he works. Not as a trend, but as a principle.

“We support local farmers, setting high standards for everyone we work with. We work with people and companies that share our values of quality, responsibility and long-term thinking.”

He describes life as a restaurateur as demanding yet rewarding, driven by the desire to create experiences that leave a mark.

“Every day is about creating something that makes people feel something. And that’s what makes me thrive.”

That intensity rarely pauses, and switching off is not always easy. When he finally steps away, he does it by heading outdoors for long, quiet walks, with nothing but the natural sounds around him. It’s his way of clearing space in his mind, and the moment where Mind in open air becomes something he can truly feel.

“Honestly, I’m available 24/7. That’s part of it, but I clear my head by going on long walks with our dog. I usually go without music, to sort my thoughts and have my mind in open air.”

Outdoors, he cares just as much about looking presentable as choosing the right clothes for the moment. A mindset he traces back to his dad.

“No matter what I do, it’s really important to think about how I look. That comes from my dad. He always looks fresh and that’s rubbed off on me. That’s influenced me to buy the right clothes for what I’m doing.”

When he’s out shopping for clothes, Jim looks for pieces that last. Garments made with intention, good materials and a sense of reliability. Quality is always where his choices begin.

“I buy almost only Swedish brands, and fast fashion is completely out of the question for me. Quality is key.”

Our meeting is coming to an end, and of course, when we have the chance to sit down with someone who lives and breathes flavour, we can’t resist asking about the essentials he relies on at home. His answer comes without hesitation.

“Lemon for acidity, white wine, tabasco for lifting flavours, butter and olive oil must also be there.”

Dedicated, thoughtful and quietly driven, Jim Hammargren embodies a way of living that feels close to the heart of Holebrook. A life shaped by craft, guided by values, and lifted by moments of Mind in open air.

Thank you for letting us take part of your story, Jim.

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