A Foodie’s Guide to Helsinki: Where to Eat Today

Helsinki is a city that surprises many food lovers with its diverse and vibrant culinary scene. From traditional Finnish dishes to international flavors, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to try local delicacies or international cuisine, Helsinki has an impressive array of restaurants, cafes, and food markets to explore. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best places to eat in the city, focusing on both local specialties and international favorites.

Traditional Finnish Cuisine: What to Try

Before diving into the restaurant recommendations, let’s start with a few must-try Finnish dishes that you can’t leave Helsinki without tasting.

1. Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian Pasty): A traditional Finnish pastry made with thin rye crust and filled with rice porridge. It’s often served with egg butter and is a common snack in cafes and bakeries.
2. Lohikeitto (Salmon Soup): A creamy and comforting soup made with fresh salmon, potatoes, leeks, and dill. This dish is a staple in Finnish households and can be found in many restaurants.
3. Poronkäristys (Sautéed Reindeer): A hearty dish made with thinly sliced reindeer meat, often served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce. It’s a true taste of the Arctic and a must for meat lovers.
4. Leipäjuusto (Finnish Squeaky Cheese): Also known as “bread cheese,” this mild cheese is typically served warm with cloudberry jam, making for a unique dessert.

Now that you know what to look for, let’s dive into the top spots to eat in Helsinki!

Best Places for Traditional Finnish Food in Helsinki

1. Savotta
   • If you’re looking for an authentic Finnish dining experience, Savotta is the place to be. Located near the Helsinki Cathedral, this cozy restaurant offers a rustic menu inspired by Finnish forests and lakes. Try the sautéed reindeer or the wild mushroom soup, both made with ingredients sourced from the Finnish countryside.
2. Kappeli
   • Situated in the beautiful Esplanade Park, Kappeli is a historic restaurant that has been serving traditional Finnish food since 1867. With its elegant glasshouse design, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy classic dishes like salmon soup or a Finnish fish platter featuring local herring and smoked salmon.
3. Lappi Ravintola
   • If you want to taste the flavors of Finland’s northern Lapland region, head to Lappi Ravintola. This restaurant offers a menu packed with Arctic specialties, including reindeer, elk, and wild berries. The cozy log cabin-style interior adds to the authentic atmosphere.

Exploring Helsinki’s Food Markets

For a more casual and interactive dining experience, Helsinki’s food markets are a great way to sample both local and international flavors.

1. Helsinki Market Square (Kauppatori)
   • Located by the harbor, Kauppatori is one of Helsinki’s most popular outdoor markets. Here, you can taste fresh seafood, such as fried herring, salmon sandwiches, and local berries. In the summer, this market is bustling with vendors selling everything from street food to Finnish handicrafts.
2. Old Market Hall (Vanha Kauppahalli)
   • Just a short walk from the Market Square, Old Market Hall is an indoor food market that has been serving locals since 1889. Inside, you’ll find a variety of stalls offering Finnish cheeses, smoked fish, sausages, and pastries. Grab a seat at one of the food counters and enjoy a bowl of salmon soup or a slice of karjalanpiirakka.

International Cuisine in Helsinki

Helsinki’s food scene isn’t just about Finnish food; the city has a diverse range of international restaurants that reflect its cosmopolitan nature. Whether you’re craving Italian, Japanese, or Middle Eastern food, Helsinki has it all.

1. Vibami
   • For those who love Vietnamese food, Vibami offers delicious and affordable dishes in a relaxed setting. Located in the Kamppi area, this restaurant is known for its fresh pho, spring rolls, and flavorful bánh mì sandwiches. It’s a great option for a quick and tasty meal.
2. Pizzeria Via Tribunali
   • If you’re in the mood for authentic Neapolitan pizza, Via Tribunali is the place to go. Located in the Kallio district, this pizzeria uses high-quality ingredients imported from Italy and bakes its pizzas in a wood-fired oven. The result is a crispy, flavorful pizza that rivals the best in Naples.
3. Gaijin
   • For a more upscale dining experience, try Gaijin, a restaurant that blends the flavors of Japan, Korea, and Northern China. Located on Bulevardi, Gaijin offers a sophisticated menu featuring sushi, dim sum, and Korean BBQ. The restaurant also has a great selection of cocktails and sake.
4. Fafa’s
   • A Helsinki favorite for Middle Eastern street food, Fafa’s serves up delicious falafel, hummus, and pita wraps. With several locations around the city, it’s a popular spot for a quick and filling meal, especially for vegetarians and vegans.

Cafés and Bakeries: A Taste of Finnish Coffee Culture

Finnish people love their coffee, and Helsinki is full of charming cafés where you can enjoy a cup of kahvi (coffee) with a freshly baked pastry.

1. Café Regatta
   • This small, red cottage by the sea is a beloved spot for both locals and tourists. Café Regatta serves strong Finnish coffee along with traditional treats like cinnamon buns and korvapuusti. The café is open year-round, and in the winter, you can even roast sausages over an open fire outside.
2. Karl Fazer Café
   • For something sweet, visit the Karl Fazer Café, named after the famous Finnish chocolatier. This café offers a wide selection of chocolates, cakes, and pastries, as well as light lunch options. Don’t miss their famous Fazer Blue chocolate bars, which make for a great souvenir.

Vegan and Vegetarian Dining in Helsinki

Helsinki is also very vegan and vegetarian-friendly, with plenty of restaurants catering to plant-based diets.

1. Yes Yes Yes
   • Located in the heart of Helsinki, Yes Yes Yes is a vibrant vegetarian restaurant that offers creative and delicious dishes. The menu includes a variety of small plates, like halloumi fries, spicy cauliflower, and grilled flatbreads. It’s a great place for a fun night out with friends.
2. OmNam
   • For a more casual vibe, OmNam is a cozy vegan restaurant known for its hearty and flavorful dishes. Try their vegan burgers, salads, or the popular vegan brunch served on weekends.

Conclusion

Helsinki’s food scene is as diverse as the city itself, offering everything from traditional Finnish dishes to international cuisine. Whether you’re wandering through the food markets, enjoying a coffee by the sea, or sitting down to a meal at a cozy restaurant, you’re sure to find something delicious in Helsinki. With this guide, you’ll be able to explore the best of what Helsinki has to offer for food lovers.