Helsinki has established itself as one of the world's most popular destinations. gastronomic most interesting restaurants in Europe. The Finnish capital combines a culinary scene that ranges from restaurants with Michelin star to cafés with more than a century of history, all united by a common thread: absolute respect for local produce, sustainability and a connection to Nordic nature.
If you are planning your trip to Finland and are wondering where to eat in Helsinki, This guide introduces you to eight restaurants that represent the best of Finnish gastronomy today. From haute cuisine to unique experiences combining sauna and gastronomy facing the Baltic Sea.
Why Helsinki is a gastronomic must-visit destination
Helsinki currently has six Michelin-starred restaurants, including Palace (the only two-starred restaurant in Finland) and four Michelin Green Star establishments for their commitment to sustainability. But beyond the accolades, what makes Helsinki's gastronomy special is its philosophy: wild ingredients collected in Finnish forests, fish The restaurant's cuisine is based on the Baltic Sea and inland lakes, game meats such as reindeer and elk, and an obsession with seasonality that transforms the menus with each change of season.
For the Spanish-speaking traveller, discovering the Finnish cuisine is a completely different experience from Mediterranean cuisine. Wild berries, forest mushrooms, Baltic herring, smoked salmon and traditional preparations such as vorschmack or karjalanpiirakka (Karelian cake) are the stars of the show.
Top 8 recommended restaurants in Helsinki
1. Olo - Michelin-starred Nordic haute cuisine
Type: Fine dining | Reservation: Indispensable
Olo has held its Michelin star since 2011, making it one of the most consistent restaurants in the Nordic countries. Located in the historic Lampa House (1817), opposite the Market Square and next to the Presidential Palace, it offers privileged views of the Helsinki harbour.
Chef Tuomas Vierelä, a native of Lapland and winner of the title «...", has been awarded the title "...".«Reindeer Chef of the Year 2015«He leads a cuisine that celebrates the ingredients of northern Finland. The tasting menu of 11 plates includes products such as scallops with sunflower seed miso and Oscietra caviar, wild reindeer with Lappish potato, and combinations that strike a surprising balance between innovation and authentic taste.
Star dishThe seared scallop, caramelised on the outside and almost raw on the inside, has become a classic that justifies a visit.
2. Grön - Michelin-starred signature vegetable cuisine
Type: Fine dining vegetable : Fine dining vegetable : Fine dining vegetable : Fine dining vegetable : Fine dining vegetable : Fine dining vegetable : Fine dining vegetable Reservation: Essential (only 7 tables)
Grön (which means «green» in Swedish) represents the cutting edge of sustainable cuisine in Finland. Led by chef Toni Kostian (Chef of the Year in Finland 2016) together with Johan Kurkela (Chef of the Year 2023), the restaurant holds both Michelin and Green Star for its environmental commitment.
The kitchen of Grön is based on ingredients harvested from the forests, meadows and coasts of Finland. The shelves of the restaurant are lined with jars of fermentations and experimental pickles. Although the main focus is vegetable, they also work with premium seafood such as Norwegian king crab and scallops, in addition to Finnish wagyu.
The complete menu is available in the following version 100% vegan, This is unusual for restaurants of this standard.
Fun factMichelin-starred restaurant: It is probably the only Michelin-starred restaurant in the world that displays its plaque in the bathroom.
3. Ravintola Nokka - The pure taste of Finland
Type: Modern Nordic : Modern Nordic : Modern Nordic : Modern Nordic ReservationRecommended : Recommended
Nokka has been in the Katajanokka district, The restaurant, next to the harbour, has become a benchmark for Finnish cuisine based on wild and sustainable produce. In 2024 it received the Michelin Green Star for its commitment to environmental responsibility and minimising food waste.
The chef Ari Ruoho is known to personally dive off the coast of the outer archipelago to collect seaweed. rakkolevä he uses in his dishes. The menu celebrates the ingredients Finnish wildernessReindeer, lake fish, forest mushrooms, berries and aromatic herbs. All prepared from scratch and with absolute respect for each ingredient.
The building, a former port warehouse marked by a huge anchor and propeller at the entrance, offers three rooms with high ceilings where the exposed brick contrasts with the varnished wood.
SpecialitiesReindeer tartare, king crab with black truffle, homemade blinis with vendace roe.
4. Savoy - Tradition and elegance since 1937
Type: Finnish-French classic :: Finnish-French classic :: Finnish-French classic :: Finnish-French classic :: Finnish-French classic ReservationRecommended : Recommended
The legendary Savoy occupies the eighth floor of a building overlooking Esplanadi Park in the heart of Helsinki. The interior was designed by architects Aino and Alvar Aalto in 1937 and has been carefully restored in collaboration with the Alvar Aalto Foundation and the Helsinki Museum.
Marshal Mannerheim, a key figure in Finnish independence, was a regular customer, and several of his favourite dishes remain on the menu today. The vorschmack (a traditional stew of minced lamb, herring and beetroot served with baked potato, gherkins and sour cream) is the signature dish.
The chef Helena Puolakka, who perfected his technique in London, combines Finnish tradition with classic French techniques. The cellar is one of the most extensive in the country.
Essential: Book a table by the window to enjoy the view of the park.
5. Juuri - Finnish tapas (Sapas)
TypeCasual dining :: Casual dining :: Casual dining :: Casual dining :: Casual dining :: Casual dining :: Casual dining Reservation: Recommended for dinner
Juuri popularised the concept of sapas: caps Finnish-style restaurants that allow you to taste a multitude of local flavours in one meal. It is the perfect choice for those who want to explore Finnish cuisine without committing to an extensive tasting menu.
The small plates change according to the season and the product available, but always include Finnish ingredients creatively prepared: pickled herring, wild mushrooms, local cheeses, cured meats and seasonal vegetables.
The atmosphere is informal and cosy, ideal for a relaxed lunch or dinner with friends.
Ideal forTravellers who want to try various Finnish dishes without any formalities.
6. Löyly - Sauna, sea and kitchen facing the Baltic Sea
Type: Casual dining + sauna : Casual dining + sauna : Casual dining + sauna : Casual dining + sauna : Casual dining + sauna Reservation: Indispensable for sauna
Löyly offers an experience that is difficult to find elsewhere: combining a traditional Finnish sauna (incl. smoke sauna) with bathing in the Baltic Sea and a meal with spectacular views. The building, an angular wooden structure designed with sustainability in mind, was named by Time Magazine as one of the «100 Best Places in the World».
The restaurant, with glass walls and a central fireplace, serves contemporary Finnish cuisine with an emphasis on fresh fish, organic produce and vegetarian options. Jasper's salmon soup (actor Jasper Pääkkönen is co-owner) and the Löyly burger are the most popular dishes.
In summer, the waterfront terrace is one of Helsinki's most coveted spots. In winter, the contrast between the warmth of the sauna and the icy Baltic water is invigorating.
Practical advice: Book the sauna in advance (especially on weekends) and schedule the meal for after the session.
7. Ravintola Aino - Local cuisine in the heart of Esplanadi
TypeTraditional Finnish : Traditional Finnish : Traditional Finnish : Traditional Finnish : Traditional Finnish : Traditional Finnish : Traditional Finnish : Traditional Finnish ReservationRecommended : Recommended
Aino offers traditional Finnish cuisine in a cosy atmosphere, just a few steps from the Cathedral and the Senate Square. It is an excellent choice for those looking for classic dishes prepared with care without the formality of haute cuisine restaurants.
The menu includes specialities such as karjalanpaisti (traditional Karelian meat stew), muikku (small fried lake fish, typical of Finnish summer) and comforting soups perfect for cold days.
Ideal for: An authentic meal in the centre of Helsinki without the hassle.
8. Café Regatta - The most charming café in Helsinki
Type: Traditional cafeteria :: Cafeteria :: Traditional cafeteria :: Cafeteria Reservation: No reservations
The Café Regatta, a small red wooden hut, built in 1887 as a fishing net shed for the Paulig family (the famous coffee roasters), has become the most photographed café in Helsinki. Located by the sea in the Töölö district, just a few metres from the Sibelius Monument, it offers an experience that transports the visitor back in time. Rural Finland.
The korvapuusti (Freshly baked cinnamon rolls with cardamom and blueberry pie are the stars of the menu. But the most special thing is the possibility to grill your own sausages on the outdoor fire while looking out over the Baltic Sea, even in the middle of winter.
The interior is tiny and crammed with objects. vintage, There are few tables, so many visitors choose to sit outside by the fire. In summer they also rent kayaks, canoes and paddle boards.
Council: Arrive early to avoid queues, especially in high season. The walk from the centre (about 30 minutes on foot) is very pleasant.
Practical tips for eating out in Helsinki
How much does it cost to eat in Helsinki?
Helsinki is not a cheap destination, but there are options for all budgets:
- Cafeteria or casual lunch: €10-25 per person
- Mid-range restaurant: €40-70 per person
- Fine dining with tasting menu: €140-200+ per person (without wine pairings)
- Wine pairing: add an additional €80-150
Water is usually charged in high-end restaurants (€5-8 per bottle). In contrast, filter coffee often comes with free refill in traditional coffee shops.
Best time to visit these restaurants
Menus in Helsinki change radically according to the season:
- Summer (June-August): Season of muikku (lake fish), crayfish (from 21 July), strawberries and fresh vegetables. Open terraces.
- Autumn (September-November)Wild mushrooms, forest berries, hunting season.
- Winter (December-March)Game meats (reindeer, elk), comfort dishes, special Christmas menus.
- Spring (April-May)Fresh first products, Baltic herring at its best.
How to book a table in a restaurant in Helsinki from Spain or Latin America
Most restaurants accept online reservations through their websites or platforms such as:
- Official website or telephone number of the restaurantMore reliable option
ImportantMichelin-starred restaurants (Olo, Grön) require reservations weeks in advance, especially for weekends. If you are travelling in high season (summer or Christmas), book at least 3-4 weeks in advance.
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What is the best restaurant in Helsinki?
It depends on what you are looking for. For Michelin-starred haute cuisine, Olo y Grön are the references. For traditional Finnish cuisine in a historic setting, Savoy. For a unique experience combining Finnish gastronomy and culture, Löyly offers a sauna and a restaurant facing the sea.
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Is it necessary to make reservations at restaurants in Helsinki?
For Michelin-starred restaurants, yes, several weeks in advance. For mid-range restaurants, reservations are recommended especially for Friday and Saturday dinners. Cafés such as Café Regatta do not accept reservations.
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Are there vegetarian options in Helsinki?
Yes, Helsinki is very friendly to vegetarians and vegans. Grön offers a 100% vegan tasting menu of the highest standard. Michelin. Most restaurants include vegetarian options on their menus.
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Can you eat well in Helsinki on a budget?
Absolutely. Covered markets (such as the Old Market Hall by the harbour) offer local food at reasonable prices. Traditional coffee shops serve soups and sandwiches for less than €15. The louna (buffet lunch) concept in many restaurants offers good value for money on weekdays.
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Which traditional Finnish dish should I try?
The vorschmack in Savoy is a historic classic. The korvapuusti (cinnamon rolls) at Café Regatta are a must. For fish, try the smoked salmon or the muikku fried in summer. And if you dare to try something more intense, reindeer in any of its preparations (tartare in Nokka, stewed in Olo) is a unique experience.
Plan your gastronomic trip to Helsinki with Viada
We are a company specialised in activities in Finland for Spanish-speaking travellers. In addition to helping you discover Lapland, the Northern Lights or husky sledding in destinations such as Rovaniemi or Ruka, we can guide you to the best experiences in Helsinki.
If you plan to combine your gastronomic getaway with other activities in Finland, check out our options of activities in Helsinki or explore complete experiences in Finnish Lapland where local gastronomy also plays a leading role.