The Best Restaurants in Helsinki

Ravintola 305 is a modern neighborhood restaurant in Helsinki's Hakaniemi district, offering inventive food, delicious wines, and cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere. You can enjoy an extended seating at the Chef's Table or freely pick individual dishes from the menu. The culinary team, led by Janne Keskevaari, creates unforgettable flavors respecting seasonal ingredients, while the ambiance and guests are handled by Jesse Teerenmaa.

Recommended by

Luka Balac

Restaurateur-sommelier – Helsinki-Belgrade, Finland

A restaurant that's spreading good and trendy food to new neighbourhoods.

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Restaurant Elm is an all-day neighborhood eatery offering Mediterranean cuisine, nestled in a beautifully renovated wooden villa from the 1860s. The culinary team, hailing from Portugal and Catalonia, infuse their ethnic backgrounds into the food, music, and atmosphere, resulting in a relaxed dining experience with friendly service. A highlight of the restaurant is the quaint veranda-terrace, an ideal spot for outdoor dining during warm days.

Recommended by

Mika Ihamuotila

Foodie – Helsinki, Finland

Portuguese-Catalonian restaurant in a charming wooden villa in Helsinki’s most charming park.This beautiful wooden villa from the 1860’s was recently renovated. The team behind Nolla restaurant opened Elm here with chefs from Portugal and Catalonia. This ethnic background is seen in the cuisine but also music and atmosphere. Good food and extremely friendly service. During the warm days, the best place is the little veranda-terrace. The house is now operated by the Herlin Foundation and is called ”House of science and hope”. Isn’t that a good base for dinner discussions?

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Sake Bar & Izakaya is a cozy, small bar that offers artisanal sake and casual Japanese izakaya-style food. The menu includes shareable snacks and small plates, designed to pair well with alcoholic drinks, especially sake, and it changes frequently according to the season. Recommended by customers for its authentic izakaya ambiance, the restaurant is also known for its creative dishes like udon noodle carbonara, which use local ingredients to give a twist to traditional Japanese flavors.

Recommended by

Tom Hansen

Head chef / Co-owner – Helsinki, Finland

Beautiful little spot that has a proper izakaya feel and the food is delicious -Japanese flavours using a lot of local ingredients and nice twists (udon noodle carbonara). They serve it as a tasting menu but you can also drop in to have a few bar snacks and great sake. Ben and Minori are super talented and have created a really cozy place, exactly what an izakaya should be like.

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Baskeri & Basso is a popular wine bistro known for its honest cooking and relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including pasta and several starters, with a focus on French-Italian bistro-osteria classics, complemented by a selection of wines from trusted and organic winemakers. Late-night walk-ins are welcome, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a late-night meal in a cozy setting.

Recommended by

Ina Niiniketo

Chef – Helsinki, Finland

Favorite late-night bistro in HelsinkiThe favorite restaurant of many locals in Helsinki. Uncomplicated and delicious food, always good and relaxed service. The atmosphere in basbas is wonderful. I recommend to always take their pasta and 2-3 starters. Nice wines. It's really hard to get a table reservation at Basbas, but I recommend going there after 11:30 PM, when there's usually room. I've never made a table reservation, but always went there very late and always got a table.

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Restaurant Yes Yes Yes is a vibrant vegetarian eatery that offers a seasonally changing menu, ensuring fresh and diverse dishes throughout the year. The kitchen uses high-quality ingredients from local farms to create food that isn't confined to any specific country or cuisine, offering a broad culinary experience. Whether you're looking for small snacks or larger comfort plates, this bustling bar and restaurant provides a relaxed atmosphere for all to enjoy.

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Niklas Ekstedt

Chef at Ekstedt – Stockholm, Sweden

Had a great vegetarian food experience at Yes Yes Yes!When you think of vegetarian restaurants you might not think of Finland. Neither did I and on my trip to the Finnish capital. We were shooting a series all about meat and fire so when I asked my friend in Helsinki if there were any vegetarian restaurants he said yes yes yes. And after enjoying a couple of days of great Finnish meat and dairy products it was very refreshing having a great vegetarian food experience at Yes Yes Yes.

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Restaurant Forza, founded by pizza expert Luca Platania, is known for its excellent pizzas made in a Napoli oven. This eatery, located in the trendy Punavuori district, offers a frequently changing menu that goes beyond pizza, all prepared with meticulous care. The restaurant's industrial decor creates a comfortable ambiance, and the presence of the patron family enhances the warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Recommended by

Mika Ihamuotila

Foodie – Helsinki, Finland

The best pizza in townHelsinki’s Mr. pizza Luca Platania opened Forza in the fashionable and casual Punavuori district in 2022. It became an instant success with reason. Excellent pizzas made in a Napoli oven and more on the menu. Nice industrial décor and a feeling that the patron family is present.

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Canvas Canteen is a cozy establishment located in a 150-year-old building, offering daily changing dishes inspired by global cuisines. The restaurant is known for its simple, flavorful dishes made from high-quality, seasonal ingredients, with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available. In addition to its regular lunch service, Canvas Canteen also offers catering services and hosts private events, making it a versatile choice for food lovers.

Recommended by

David J Constable

Writer & Underwear Model – London, UK

Canvas is located in Punavuori, Helsinki, in the corner of a 150-year-old building. The restaurant offers daily changing dishes and drinks from lunch to late afternoon, all set in a small and homey setting. On the menu you’ll find simple dishes, built on seasonal and high-quality products, “the whole world as a source of inspiration,” as they say. Expect fresh, vibrant salads, lamb neck and lentils, homemade pies and Nordic fruit/berry-based desserts.

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Le Coucou Vert is a French bistro that offers a delightful menu of modern and innovative French dishes. The restaurant, run by the same trio behind Matdistrikt and Albina, provides a warm ambiance, making it feel like a long-established classic despite its recent opening. With a pleasant terrace and a commitment to French cooking, Le Coucou Vert invites guests to linger over their meals, filling the table with laughter, warmth, and enjoyment.

Recommended by

Mika Ihamuotila

Foodie – Helsinki, Finland

A charming French bistro in a cozy corner of the Bulevardi street.The new restaurant by a trio that run Matdistrikt and Albina. Enjoyable menu of French innovative and modern dishes. Warm atmosphere. Feels like an old classic even though it has just opened its doors. Very nice terrace.

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Nolita is a cozy neighborhood restaurant and bakery that focuses on serving mouth-watering dishes using local ingredients. The restaurant is highly recommended for its divine bread, weekend brunch, and early evening wine. At Nolita, the aim is not only to provide delicious food but also to create unforgettable moments for everyone who walks in.

Recommended by

Helena Puolakka

Chef patron – Helsinki, Finland

Wonderful cosy little italy great for weekend brunch, early evening glass of wine and The bread is divine

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"Luovuus kukkii kaaoksesta" is a bistro that radiates fun and quirkiness, driven by a young and ambitious team. The restaurant offers a variety of small dishes, prepared with simplicity and high-quality ingredients, with the menu constantly changing to reflect the best available produce. The interior mirrors the eccentricity of the menu, creating a relaxed atmosphere, while the team's super friendly service enhances the dining experience.

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Ina Niiniketo

Chef – Helsinki, Finland

the name describes the restaurant well: "creativity blooms from chaos" - a casual restaurant serving small dishes.A new casual restaurant in Helsinki. The interior is a bit crazy and the atmosphere is very relaxed with a small open kitchen. On the menu they have small dishes that are prepared simply, but made with good ingredients. We had scallops with umeboshi, miso cured horse ”carpaccio”, green asparagus, trout with tomatoes, brioche bun with sweetbread and strawberries with vanilla ice cream. The menu is like the interior - a bit ”crazy” combinations and they use whatever they think is the best at the moment. Super friendly service and they have a small talented team.

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Café Savoy is a stylish brasserie in the heart of the city, offering a Southern French-inspired menu that predominantly uses locally sourced Finnish produce. The ambiance is inviting and bright, thanks to the large windows and open kitchen concept. With a focus on robust, heart-warming dishes and an excellent selection of wines, Café Savoy provides a comfortable dining experience for both lunch and dinner.

Recommended by

Mika Ihamuotila

Foodie – Helsinki, Finland

Extremely charming and elegant Southern French quality bistro in Helsinki’s best location.Café Savoy is the charming little sister of the iconic Savoy restaurant from 1937 on the roof of the same building. This recently opened bistro serves wonderful French/Provencial quality cuisine and has a very elegant and timeless décor. Excellent wine list. Enjoyable to watch Helsinki’s most beautiful park and the smart crowd. Very strong recommendation. This institution will live successfully for the next 100 years.

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Wino is a relaxed restaurant and natural wine bar located in the trendy Kallio area, offering innovative small dishes that change with the seasons. It boasts a unique wine selection and fine dining level bistro food, making it a great choice for both a simple aperitif or a full-scale dinner. With a philosophy rooted in craftsmanship that's evident in its food, handpicked wine cellar, and interior design, Wino is a go-to spot for lovers of natural wines and fresh, organic ingredients.

Recommended by

Saku Tuominen

CEO & Restaurateur – Helsinki, Finland

Cosy natural wine bar / small restaurant in still trendy Kallio area serving innovative small dishes. Great for both: a simple aperitif or a full-scale dinner.

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Restaurant Wellamo, located in the serene Katajanokka area, is a legendary establishment dating back to 1975, now managed by Chef Dani Hänninen and his team. The restaurant offers a blend of traditional and modern dishes, focusing on seasonal Nordic ingredients from local producers, with a menu that strikes an interesting balance between comfort and innovation. The ambiance of Wellamo is cozy and romantic, complemented by a well-curated wine list that caters to both traditional and natural wine enthusiasts.

Recommended by

Saku Tuominen

CEO & Restaurateur – Helsinki, Finland

Fresh take on Nordic cooking in an exceptionally cozy setting.Wellamo is a legendary artist restaurant in a quiet corner of Katajanokka area in Helsinki, founded already in 1975. A few years ago, it was taken over by chef Dani Hänninen and the team behind the small cult restaurant Bull & The Firm. The result is a superb combination of the traditional and the fresh. The space is as hygge as it gets, one of the most romantic in the city. The cuisine follows the seasons and is based solely on Nordic ingredients, sourced from small producers. The dishes have a nice balance between comfort and innovation (grilled carrots with frozen sour cream, tartar with fermented rhubarb, canard with asparagus, grilled strawberries, black pepper, and milk). The wine list is well curated for both traditionalists and natural wine lovers. It is difficult to see someone not liking this gem.

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Restaurant Kuurna is a modern bistro that offers a changing menu every 2-3 weeks, focusing on simple dishes crafted from high-quality local and seasonal produce. The establishment, which has been operating since 2005, is known for its cozy and welcoming atmosphere, as well as its extensive wine list, featuring both classic and natural wines. With a commitment to sustainable producers, Kuurna is also pet-friendly, promising a pleasant dining experience for all.

Recommended by

Ina Niiniketo

Chef – Helsinki, Finland

Cozy, casual neighbourhood bistro in beautiful Kruununhaka and simple dishes of high quality seasonal produceKuurna has long been one of my favorite casual restaurants in Helsinki. The location is cozy and welcoming, service is friendly, relaxed and professional. I love the short menu, which they change every 2-3 weeks. The dishes are simple but made of high quality seasonal and local produce. The food is always tasty!

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Restaurant Bona Fide offers a fresh take on Finnish cuisine, with a focus on sustainable fish and vegetable dishes. The menu, crafted by chefs Ilpo Vainonen and Eeli Kaasinen, changes frequently, ensuring a diverse dining experience with dishes like courgette escabeche and deep-fried vendace fish with hot sauce. The restaurant also boasts an excellent wine list, curated by sommelier Johan Borgar, featuring natural wines and affordable champagnes from small producers.

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David J Constable

Writer & Underwear Model – London, UK

Small and cosey Helsinki restaurant with a tight-knit menu, usually a main course centred around fish and the catch of the day. Chefs are Ilpo Vainonen and Eeli Kaasinen. Set course suggested with extras and cheese available. Plus lots of Nordic berries. Excellent wine list, complied by the sommelier Johan Borgar, with good natural wines and a very affordable and competitively priced champagne list.

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Ravintola Nolla is a casual restaurant that has been serving bistro food for nearly five years, with a focus on simplicity and seasonality. The restaurant's zero-waste ideology is a central part of its operations, and it even brews its own beer on-site. The menu, which is predominantly vegetarian, is crafted from local ingredients that change with the seasons, and the restaurant also offers a selection of natural wines and in-house brewed sour beers.

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Helena Puolakka

Chef patron – Helsinki, Finland

Casual zero waste restaurant, seasonal bistro food and microbrewery.A casual restaurant based on zero waste. It's been around for nearly five years now. The exciting thing is that they are still there. I pay huge respect to the owners of Nolla that they were ahead of their time when they opened the restaurant. They serve bistro food, simple and very seasonal. And the zero-waste thinking is always there. They brew their own beer on-site. The service is exquisite, really friendly. Always a nice place to go.

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Boulevard Bar & Seafood offers top-notch seafood dishes in the heart of Helsinki. The restaurant's chef, Sylvester “Syltty” Soisalo, utilizes a blend of modern and traditional French cooking techniques to create a delightful array of seafood dishes such as fish, lobsters, oysters, and herring. It's not only a fantastic place for lunch or dinner but also features a superb summer terrace and a bar with an exquisite cocktail and wine list.

Recommended by

David J Constable

Writer & Underwear Model – London, UK

A modern Scandinavian seafood restaurant where every dish is an ode to ingredients, especially during the crayfish season when they are piled high and often. The menu consists of fresh and organic seafood, with all dishes prepared in accordance with classical cooking methods. The passion and experience of the two chef-owners is evident in all areas of this likeable restaurant, and the quality of the fish and shellfish really comes through, thanks to the classic techniques used.

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The Grand Bar & Grill is a pop-up restaurant led by Chef Sylvester Soisalo and the Boulevard team, offering a menu where classic dishes meet modern grilling techniques. The focus here is on essentials, with no room for nonsense on the plate. From snacks and charcuterie to grilled Finnish beef and a variety of steak cuts cooked over fire, the restaurant provides a straightforward and satisfying dining experience.

Recommended by

Luka Balac

Restaurateur-sommelier – Helsinki-Belgrade, Finland

The restaurant that Helsinki dining scene needs.

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Restaurant Plein is a neighborhood bistro offering small shareable plates and a selection of natural wines. The menu, which changes every few months, features familiar dishes with a unique twist, such as beef tartare with apple and pecan, and poached leeks in a creamy mussel and gorgonzola sauce. The interior of the restaurant is raw yet cozy, making it a comfortable spot for a casual dining experience.

Recommended by

Tom Hansen

Head chef / Co-owner – Helsinki, Finland

Great tasting food with that corner restaurant vibeI try and come here more often than the fre times a year that I do now. The dishes are recognisable (tartar, cured fish etc) but always have that small twist that elevates it and make the dishes stand out from everyone else's. Nowadays they serve a fixed 4 course menu with a few additions (also taking allergies into consideration).Wine selection has always been great, the selection coming mostly from a wine importer specialising in organic and naturally made wines.Interior is raw but cozy and the surroundings make the terrace one of my favourite places to visit in the summer. ❤️

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Palace offers an innovative and sophisticated Nordic fine dining experience, complemented by splendid views. The restaurant, established in 1952, is a pioneer in Finnish gastronomy, boasting a luxurious dining ambiance and a well-trained workforce. The menu respects Nordic tradition and features the finest ingredients alongside excellent wine pairings.

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David J Constable

Writer & Underwear Model – London, UK

Established in 1952, Palace has always been a pioneer of Finnish gastronomy. Located by the waters edge, there are magical views over Helsinki harbour and across the Baltic Sea. A meal here is a luxury experience, from the kitchen to the front of house in what is Finland’s only two-star restaurant.

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Restaurant Savoy is an iconic establishment in Helsinki, known for its stylish fine dining experience. With its classic Finnish design overlooking the beautiful Esplanad Park, it offers a magnificent view of Helsinki's rooftops. The menu, crafted by Chef Patron Helena Puolakka, features traditional Finnish dishes with a hint of French and Russian influences, all made from the finest seasonal ingredients.

Recommended by

David J Constable

Writer & Underwear Model – London, UK

Sophisticated, high-end dining option executing both French and Finnish cuisine in an iconic locale featuring city views overlooking the Esplanade Park. One of Helsinki’s legendary dining destinations. The wine matches are first class. Chef-patron Helena Puolakka, whose contemporary take on Finnish cuisine was refined during a high-profile career in in London, has lifted the menu offering here to something greater. Expect vorschmack with oven-baked potato, beetroot, pickles and sour cream, while Arctic char, venison, pike and elk are never far away. The highlight is a visit during crayfish season.

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Restaurant Grön, led by chef Toni Kostian, offers a predominantly plant-based menu inspired by the forest. The relaxed ambiance complements the creative fine dining experience that emphasizes local and sustainably sourced vegetables. Visitors can expect innovative dishes like the Leek and Pike “Roast” served with herb leaves from the restaurant's own farm, and the memorable honey, fennel pollen and thyme brioche bread.

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David J Constable

Writer & Underwear Model – London, UK

Had a brilliant meal here, one of my highlights in Helsinki. An up-and-down, back-and-forth, left-to-right, twisty-turny exploration across Finland’s picked and pulled, all the uprooted goodies from the soil, forming an almost exclusively plant-led tasting menu (they have two stars, one Michelin red, and another of the green and eco variety). Every dish was colourful and vivid, dotted with small leaves, flowers, micro-herbs and, on occasion, caviar, for a sense of inflated luxe. The small, stark and industrial restaurant space is warm and full of contented chatter from guests, each deliberating and discussing recipes and the dishes before them. The kitchen is open, so you can peek in while a young team meticulously fiddle and plate - it really did appear to be a very young and talented team, making the kitchen output all the more impressive.

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Restaurant Demo holds a Michelin star for over a decade, offering memorable dining experiences with a blend of modern French cuisine and global flavors. The restaurant is recognized for its creatively crafted tasting menus and an exceptional wine cellar with over 400 selections. With a cool, contemporary ambiance, it ensures a relaxed environment while delivering impeccable service and high-quality cuisine.

Recommended by

Mika Ihamuotila

Foodie – Helsinki, Finland

A Helsinki Michelin-star-classic with an understated bohemian contemporary cool ambiance. (Only) tasting menus with a creative modern French tone. Excellent wine list and pairing choices.

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Way Bakery is a versatile spot that serves as a bakery, cafe, wine bar, and restaurant, known for its cool vibes and natural wines. It's a popular destination for its fantastic sourdough bread, delicious coffee, and a menu that transitions from breakfast and brunch to evenings. The place has a modern, quirky style, offering a great breakfast with their famous sourdough, butter, charcuterie, and cheese, a daily special for lunch, and transforms into a wine bar with snacks and a bistro menu in the evening.

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Helena Puolakka

Chef patron – Helsinki, Finland

All-day hip café-bakery, great sourdough bread and wines in the evenings. Way is one of my favorite bakeries in Helsinki. The bread itself is fantastic. The coffees are delicious. Their sourdough bread is probably the best in Helsinki.They do breakfast, brunch and evenings. It's a bit hipster, quirky, modern style and you feel like being in New York or London. The energy that they have put into their product and the way they serve it, is always worth a visit.

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This quaint, cosy café, Café Clé, is a perfect spot for breakfast, owned by two friendly Brazilians, Carolina and Florence. The interior and food details are meticulously planned, providing a warm atmosphere. They serve a variety of cold and warm drinks, and simple food made from extraordinary ingredients, ensuring a quality experience.

Recommended by

Ina Niiniketo

Chef – Helsinki, Finland

A cute tiny cafe in cozy Kruununhaka. Perfect breakfast spot in Helsinki. The two lovely Brazilian owners, Carolina and Florence always brighten up the day. Simple dishes, but all small details in the interior and food are carefully thought out. I recommend to book a table on weekends.

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Ekberg 1852 is a historic café and pastry shop located in Helsinki, renowned for its traditional pastries and sandwiches that have remained unchanged for years. This family-run establishment, dating back to 1852, is a favorite meeting spot for locals, often frequented by generations of the same families. With its grand café ambiance reminiscent of Central Europe, Ekberg 1852 offers a range of seasonal specialties, including the Runeberg cake and May Day funnel cake, alongside a delightful old-school breakfast buffet.

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Helena Puolakka

Chef patron – Helsinki, Finland

Ekberg is special in the sense that it's a place for local people. There’s really a sense of belonging.Ekberg is wonderful. For me, it’s the place to go for afternoon tea. Or just for fika, with a cup of Café au lait, a cinnamon bun or other nice pastry. It's a really lovely spot. Ekberg is special in the sense that it's a place for local people. You know you have generations of the same families going there. It has all the elements of being in Central Europe when you sit there. The table service is great, and the menu has been the same forever when it comes to pastries and sandwiches, and there’s really a sense of belonging somewhere when you are there.

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St. George Bakery is a cozy, small café and bread shop located within the St. George Hotel, offering a selection of lunch dishes. It's known for its freshly baked bread, sweet pastries, sandwiches, salads, and smoothies, all served in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Customers particularly recommend their breakfast, stating it's made from some of the best products in Finland and needs to be booked in advance if not a hotel guest.

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Helena Puolakka

Chef patron – Helsinki, Finland

Some of the best products in Finland, I love breakfast at St George Bakery.I love breakfast at St George's café. The hotel breakfast is also really nice but you have to book it in advance if you are not a hotel guest. It's really good with some of the best products in Finland.

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Layers is a small bakery shop renowned for its expertly crafted pastries. The establishment is managed by Finnish-Spanish baker, Daniel Tobal Autiokari, who has been recognized for making possibly the best croissants in the country. Customers should anticipate a wait during weekends, a testament to the bakery's popularity and the quality of its light, buttery croissants and pain au chocolat.

Recommended by

Kenneth Nars

Creative Director – Helsinki, Finland

Probably the best croissants and other pastry in Finland. Tiny bakery shop, room for 2 people.Layers bakery in the Töölö district is most likely baking the best croissants in this country. The tiny bakery has room for max 2 people and is run by Finnish-Spanish baker Daniel Tobal Autiokari. The croissant and pain au chocolat have a perfect structure, combining lightness, butter flavour, crunch and soft interior. Prepare to stand in line on weekends.

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Rams Roasters is a cozy coffee spot in Southern Helsinki, known for its selection of beans from various roasters. They offer a variety of fresh pastries, both sweet and savory, with a special mention for their highly recommended cinnamon buns. This family-run café provides a homely atmosphere, serving homemade ice cream and delectable quiches, making it a neighborhood favorite.

Recommended by

Kenneth Nars

Creative Director – Helsinki, Finland

One of the best coffee places in Southern Helsinki, with beans from a few different roasters. Probably the best cinnamon buns in town, nice quiches, cakes and house made ice cream.

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Hills Dumplings is a casual Asian eatery that specializes in crafting delicious dumplings and cocktails. Patrons highly recommend their made-to-order dumplings and fried chicken, and appreciate the cool vibes and good music. With a wide array of drinks, this spot is popular among the younger crowd.

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Mika Ihamuotila

Foodie – Helsinki, Finland

Good dumplings, bao baos and more. Baked or fried, from vegetarian to beef and chicken. A very nice and vibrant amtosphere.

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Noodle Master is a hotspot for authentic Chinese street food featuring hand-pulled noodles and dumplings. The restaurant is renowned for its fresh, daily-made wheat noodles, particularly the hot and spicy dan dan noodles, balanced with chili oil and Sichuan pepper. Not to be missed are the Shanghai noodles with shrimps and spring onion oil, and the sweet, marinated radish, all serving to provide a genuine Chinese street food experience.

Recommended by

Sara Berg

Food journalist – Malmö, Sweden

Hand-pulled noodles made by awarded Chinese chefHand-pulled wheat noodles made fresh every day and served in a small, crowded space. The dan dan noodles are - rightfully - most popular. Hot and spicy, with loads of chili oil and Sichuan pepper, but still very balanced. Shanghai noodles with shrimps and spring onion oil are also great. And don’t miss out on the sweet, marinated radish.

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Eppu’s Cheesesteaks is a straightforward dining spot offering authentic Philadelphia cheesesteaks in either beef or chicken variant, with the option for jalapeños. Their signature dish is the beef cheesesteak, made with thin-cut chuck fried to order, topped with cheese, cheese sauce, and fried onions. The steak is tender and flavorful, served in a soft bun, coated with hot cheddar cheese sauce, and topped with soft, sweet grill-fried onions.

Recommended by

Kenneth Nars

Creative Director – Helsinki, Finland

No frills Philadelphia cheesesteak in Southern districts of Helsinki. Only options are beef or chicken cheesesteak with or without jalapeños, and fries. Try the beef, made of thin cut chuck fried to order and topped with cheese and cheese sauce and fried onions. Yummy.

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This Thai food establishment offers a range of dishes. Their menu features stewed beef noodles, Khao Man Gai chicken with rice and dipping sauce, Som tam papaya salad, and chicken laab. Seating is limited with only 8 seats available, but takeaway is an option.

Recommended by

Kenneth Nars

Creative Director – Helsinki, Finland

Finally good Thai food in Southern Helsinki: Thai Noodle on Pursimiehenkatu 12. Go for the Stewed beef noodles, Khao Man Gai chicken with rice and dipping sauce, Som tam papaya salad and Chicken laab. Only 8 seats and take away.

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Eromanga Oy is a traditional lunch café-bakery known for its 'lihapiirakka', a local meat pasty. The café is a popular spot for locals and workers alike, serving a variety of pastries, including the doughnut-like deep-fried pasty filled with rice, minced meat, and onion. Established in 1946, Eromanga Oy continues to be a significant part of the food and social culture, offering an authentic experience with its savory and sweet offerings.

Recommended by

Toni Toivanen

R&D Noma – Copenhagen, Denmark

Classic Finnish meat pieEromangan meat pie is an institution for this fatty, hot and just delicious meat pie. Highly recommended to get here early and meet the workers having their morning pie and coffee. This is a part of real Helsinki!

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Restaurant Alexanderplats is a bustling Nordic brasserie, popular for both lunch and dinner services. The menu offers a delightful blend of Finnish classics with a French twist, and is particularly renowned for its thrice-cooked French fries. With a great wine list featuring reasonably priced bottles from France and beyond, and a reputation for being one of the few establishments open on Sundays, it's a solid and reliable choice for any time of the week.

Recommended by

Kal Freese

Nordic Barista Champion – San Francisco / Helsinki, USA / Finland

Solid and reliable - well executed and delicious, refined Finnish classics with a French twist. The BEST French fries in Helsinki. They’re truly excellent, thrice cooked and perfectly crunchy. Great wine list with reasonably priced bottles from France and elsewhere. One of the few spots open on Sundays. Great for a walk in.

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Kosmos is a classic restaurant serving traditional dishes influenced by Finnish, French, Swedish, and Russian cuisines. With nearly a century of history, the restaurant continues to offer favorites like blinis with roe and sour cream, salted reindeer with cloudberry balsamic, fried herring, and Wiener schnitzel. Maintaining its original interior, Kosmos provides a genuine feel of the old restaurant world, complemented by its selection of cold beer and schnapps.

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David J Constable

Writer & Underwear Model – London, UK

Kosmos has been shining bright on Helsinki’s restaurant scene for almost a hundred years, serving Finnish classics with French, Swedish and Russian influences. From the à la carte menu you’ll find classics such as blinis with roe and sour cream, salted reindeer with cloudberry balsamic, fried herring and Wiener schnitzel. A truly beautiful dining room and one of the highlight restaurants of the city.

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Konditoria Hopia is a traditional bakery known for its Carelian pasties, meat-rice pasty, and pulla sweet buns. It's a spot where tradition meets trend, offering an authentic experience for Carelian pie enthusiasts. With options like barley, rice, or mashed potato fillings, and the addition of chopped egg butter and coffee, it stands as a top choice for afternoon coffee and pasties.

Recommended by

Saku Tuominen

CEO & Restaurateur – Helsinki, Finland

Being a carelian pie -freak (karjalanpiirakka in Finnish) it can be a struggle to find a great one in Helsinki. Konditoria Hopia is probably your best choice in the capital. A place so traditional, that it feels almost trendy and hipsterish. Great spot for afternoon coffee - as long as you don´t expect lattes.

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Restaurant Sea Horse, established in 1934, is a classic Finnish eatery known for its traditional, hearty meals. The menu features local favorites such as salmon soup, herring platters, beef Lindström, and the legendary potato and sausage hash known as "pyttipannu". Open seven days a week, Sea Horse offers large portions in a casual, old-school setting, making it a popular choice for both walk-ins and larger parties.

Recommended by

Helena Puolakka

Chef patron – Helsinki, Finland

Hearty traditional food. Salmon soup, herring, meat and potato hash.A classic. Sea horse is a casual restaurant that's been around since 1934. A very traditional local neighborhood restaurant in the Ullanlinna district. Big platters of hearty traditional food with salmon soup, herring platters, beef Lindström and their legendary ”pyttipannu” meal, potato and sausage hash. You can walk in or make a booking for bigger parties. The portions are huge and people tend to drink schnapps and beer with their food. Very old school, open seven days a week which is a rare thing in Helsinki. Go for Sunday lunch, have a herring platter, fish soup and pancakes with some strawberry jam and cream as dessert. And it's just fantastic.

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Murun Viinibaari is a cozy spot known for its seasonal menu, including charcuterie and cheese, accompanied by a selection of both big and small classic wines. It's an intimate establishment, offering contemporary Italian trattoria and French bistro-style dishes in small portions. Additionally, Murun Viinibaari features a few excellent wines by the glass every night.

Recommended by

Mika Ihamuotila

Foodie – Helsinki, Finland

The ”wine bar” of the classic Muru restaurant. An intimate, cozy institution with mostly small portions of Italian trattoria / French bistro in a contemporary style. Every night a few excellent wines by glasses.

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