While you might not think of Helsinki as a foodie destination in the Nordics, there are plenty of delicious restaurants, food halls, and drink options to choose from. I was pleasantly surprised by how well we ate in Helsinki during our two day visit. In this blog post, I’ll discuss some of the best restaurants in Helsinki, highlighting their unique cuisine, atmosphere, and overall dining experience.
Whether you’re a foodie looking for the latest gastronomic trends or a traveler in search of authentic local cuisine, you can rest assured you’ll be eating well during your 2 days in Helsinki.
From fine dining establishments to casual cafes, I have explored many of the diverse dining options available in Helsinki. Of course, I recommend trying some traditional Finnish cuisine first, but you’ll also find international cuisines mentioned in this Helsinki restaurant guide. Helsinki has something to offer any intrepid foodie! So, get ready to discover the best restaurants in Helsinki and prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure.
Where to Find the Best Restaurants in Helsinki for Foodies
Breakfast in Helsinki
Kanniston Leipomo
Get a sample of traditional Finnish baked goods at Kanniston Leipomo. With a couple locations, most of the bakeries are primarily for takeaway, so grab a baked treat to accompany your coffee. Karelian pasty is one of the most iconic Finnish baked items. A thin rye crust is filled with porridge rice and baked until slightly crisp. You can also find more regional favorites like cardamom buns and custard tarts.
Kakkugalleria
I was wandering around Punavuori when I stumbled on this corner patisserie shop. The brightly colored cakes and macarons were too beautiful to pass by! There was a pleasant mix of French patisserie techniques with Finnish ingredients. Think a lingonberry tiered cake or a blueberry custard tart. The airy café has limited seating, and lots of locals were picking up items to go.
Lunch in Helsinki
Vanha Kauppahalli
Built in 1889, the Old Market Hall is Helsinki’s oldest and most beloved indoor market hall. It is centrally located along the harbor, making it an ideal place to grab a quick lunch. You can browse through 20 different food and beverage stalls selling everything from fresh seafood and meat, to artisan breads and traditional Finnish sweets. My favorite thing we sampled here was smoked mackerel, a strong but enjoyable fish that is typically accompanied with bread and butter.
Hakaniemi Market Hall
Yes, that’s right – I’m suggesting another Helsinki food hall! Housed in a traditional market building from 1914, Hakaniemi Market Hall is a vibrant indoor marketplace. With over two dozen vendors, each stand has their unique offerings and specialties. I found this market to be a little less touristy than the Old Market Hall. It has a more local vibe. We created a DIY picnic dinner with local favorites like smoked salmon and mackerel, sheep’s milk cheese, dense rye bread, dill honey mustard, and lingonberry jelly. Most of the vendors will let you sample their goodies before buying.
Restaurant MoMo Punavuori
Please for the love of god, go to this pocket sized hole-in-the-wall spot. These are the best momos I’ve had outside of Nepal, and the staff is the FRIENDLIEST! Momos are traditional Nepali steamed dumplings, and they are typically served with an orange sauce that has tomatoes, peppers, and spices. The menu at Momo Punavuori is tiny with just a few types of momos to choose from, including meat, chicken, and vegan. Steamed to perfection and plated with care, this delectable lunch will warm your belly and soul.
Finnish Dinners in Helsinki
Restaurant Kuurna
With simple yet refined interior, Restaurant Kurrna is a modern bistro located near the Uspenski Cathedral. The menu focuses on traditional Finnish cuisine, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and seasonal produce. And wow, the plating is such a showstopper! Offering a slightly upscale experience, dishes include hearty soups, grilled meats, and fish. The restaurant also offers a carefully curated selection of wines, beers, and cocktails to complement the menu.
Savotta
This has to be the coziest restaurant in central Helsinki. Overlooking the picturesque Senate Square, Restaurant Savotta is the best place to go if you want to sample traditional Finnish cuisine. Dishes include reindeer meat, smoked fish, and Finnish desserts, all prepared using traditional cooking methods and presented with a modern twist. The restaurant has a rustic interior with original wooden floors and vintage furnishings, creating a warm atmosphere that feels like you are dining at grandma’s home.
International Dinners in Helsinki
Bistro Bardot
I noticed this restaurant from the sidewalk, and it drew me in instantly. I didn’t even look at the reviews, because I could just tell it was going to be a great experience. Bistro Bardot has an intimate atmosphere with secluded booths and vintage lighting. This would be a great date night place. The menu is inspired by French bistro fare with an emphasis on high-quality ingredients. You’ll find plenty of French classics like escargot, onion soup, steak frites, and crème brûlée, all expertly prepared. It also has a pocket size cocktail bar on the side if you only want to stop in for a drink.
Baskeri & Basso
This trendy spot has a metropolitan supper club vibe in a modern industrial-chic space. It has an open kitchen, which creates a lively and bustling atmosphere. Located in the hip Kallio district of Helsinki, the menu is a fusion of Mediterranean and Finnish cuisines, with an emphasis on fresh seafood. You’ll also find plenty of grilled meats, and vegetarian options, all cooked to perfection by the talented chefs. The restaurant boasts an extensive wine list, with carefully selected wines from around the world.
Farang
Offering an award-winning menu, Farang is a swanky pan-Asian fusion restaurant with delicious cocktails and interesting flavor combinations. The restaurant has a contemporary interior with dark wood furnishings, dim lighting, and a sleek open kitchen. It feels so sophisticated. The menu pulls heavily from Southeast Asian cuisine with a focus on bold flavors and interesting spices. We opted to do the tasting menu during our visit, so we had a variety of small-plate dishes. I especially remember the crispy duck rolls (SO YUM!) and the cod curry, but honestly every dish was delicious. You can also order a la-carte, but the tasting menu is worth the splurge!
