Helsinki, Finland’s Best Restaurants: Where to Eat

(Last updated: 16th February)

Helsinki’s food scene is a perfect reflection of the city itself — clean, stylish, and deeply rooted in nature, yet always evolving. From innovative Nordic fine dining to lively market halls brimming with fresh seafood and local delicacies, this is a city where simplicity meets sophistication on every plate. Whether you’re after Michelin-starred experiences, a steaming bowl of lohikeitto (Finnish salmon soup), or the perfect cinnamon bun in a cosy café, Helsinki delivers with quiet confidence.

1) Kappeli – A Historic Culinary Jewel in the Heart of Helsinki

 

raflaamo.fi/fi/ravintola/helsinki/kappeli
Price Range: €15–€50 per person (£13–£43)
Hours: 10:00 AM–12:00 AM
Booking: Recommended, especially for dinner
Dietary: Traditional Finnish cuisine with vegetarian and gluten-free options
Dress: Smart casual

Nestled in Esplanadi Park, Kappeli has been a Helsinki institution since 1867, serving as a gathering place for artists, poets, and locals alike. The elegant glass-walled pavilion blends old-world charm with modern sophistication, offering a menu that celebrates classic Finnish flavours with a refined touch. Expect beautifully plated dishes like lohikeitto (creamy salmon soup), reindeer fillet with lingonberries, and karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasties) served with egg butter. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely brunch or a candlelit dinner, Kappeli is a must-visit for those looking to savour Helsinki’s culinary heritage in an iconic setting.

Insider Tips:

• Service Style: Warm and professional, with a strong knowledge of Finnish cuisine

• Food Quality: Timeless classics made with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients

• Pro Tip: Opt for a terrace seat in summer for prime people-watching in Esplanadi, or visit in winter for a cosy, nostalgic atmosphere by candlelight
  

2) Restaurant Lappi – A Taste of Lapland in the Heart of Helsinki

 

lappires.com/
Price Range: €30–€70 per person (£26–£60)
Hours: Monday–Saturday: 4:00 PM–10:00 PM; Sunday: Closed
Booking: Highly recommended
Dietary: Traditional Lappish cuisine with vegetarian options
Dress: Smart casual

Stepping into Restaurant Lappi feels like entering a cosy Lappish lodge in the Arctic wilderness. Wooden interiors, warm lighting, and a welcoming fireplace set the stage for an authentic taste of Finland’s northernmost region. The menu celebrates the rich flavours of Lapland, with specialities such as slow-roasted reindeer, Arctic char, and cloudberry desserts. Pair your meal with a shot of lakka (cloudberry liqueur) for the full experience. A favourite among locals and visitors alike, Lappi offers a rustic yet refined dining experience, bringing the magic of the North to the heart of Helsinki.

Insider Tips:

• Service Style: Friendly and knowledgeable, with staff happy to guide you through the menu.

• Food Quality: Traditional yet elevated, using premium ingredients sourced from Lapland

• Pro Tip: Book reservations in advance as they fill up rather quickly!
  
  

3) Levant Bulevardi – Authentic Middle Eastern Street Food in Helsinki

 

levant.fi
Price Range: €10–€20 per person (£9–£17)
Hours: 11:00 AM–10:00 PM
Booking: Walk-ins welcome; reservations recommended for weekend brunch
Dietary: Middle Eastern cuisine with ample vegetarian and vegan options
Dress: Casual

Located on Bulevardi 15, Levant Bulevardi brings the vibrant flavours of the Middle East to Helsinki's dining scene. Known for its generous meze platters, falafel rolls, and fresh salads, the restaurant offers a menu that caters to both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. The warm, inviting atmosphere and friendly staff make it a popular spot for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. On weekdays they serve a famous lunch buffet with coffee and fresh homemade dessert included that locals and visitors love.

Insider Tips:

• Service Style: Casual and friendly, with a focus on quick service without compromising quality

• Food Quality: Consistently fresh and flavourful, with an emphasis on traditional Middle Eastern recipes

• Pro Tip: Don't miss their homemade ginger-lime juice — a refreshing complement to any meal
  
  

4) Pompier Espa – Culinary Excellence in a Historic Setting

 

pompier.fi/espa/
Price Range: €30–€60 per person (£26–£52)
Hours: Monday–Friday: 11:00 AM–2:00 PM (Lunch); Tuesday–Saturday: 5:00 PM–11:00 PM (À la carte dinner); Sunday: Closed
Booking: Highly recommended, especially during peak hours
Dietary: Offers a variety of international and Scandinavian dishes with vegetarian options available
Dress: Smart casual

Situated at the prestigious address of Eteläesplanadi 8, Pompier Espa is a charming 50-seat restaurant that combines lovingly prepared cuisine with warm, attentive service. The menu features a harmonious blend of international and Scandinavian flavors, crafted from the finest seasonal ingredients. Signature dishes include their renowned Tarte Tatin, a staple since 2006, and a selection of carefully curated wines to complement each course. Whether you're visiting for a leisurely lunch or an intimate dinner, Pompier Espa offers a memorable dining experience in the heart of Helsinki's vibrant Esplanadi district.

Insider Tips:

• Service Style: Friendly and knowledgeable staff dedicated to providing a personalised dining experience

• Food Quality: Consistently high, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative culinary techniques

• Pro Tip: To fully appreciate the local ambiance, request a table by the window during lunch hours, offering a delightful view of the bustling Esplanadi park
  
  

5) Café Savoy – A Taste of Southern France in Helsinki

 

cafesavoy.fi
Price Range: €50+ per person (£43)
Hours: Tuesday–Friday: 11:30 AM–2:30 PM (Lunch), 4:30 PM–12:00 AM (Dinner); Saturday: 1:30 PM–12:00 AM (Dinner); Sunday & Monday: Closed
Booking: Recommended, especially during peak hours
Dietary: Southern French cuisine with vegetarian options available
Dress: Smart casual

Situated at Eteläesplanadi 14, Café Savoy is a vibrant brasserie that brings a touch of Southern French flair to Helsinki's bustling Esplanadi district. Established in November 2022, it serves as the lively counterpart to the esteemed Restaurant Savoy located upstairs. The menu features a selection of dishes inspired by the Southern French coast, including classics like salade Niçoise and ratatouille, prepared with care and high-quality ingredients. The ambiance is spacious and airy, offering a relaxed yet refined dining experience.

Insider Tips:

• Service Style: Friendly and professional, aiming to provide a welcoming atmosphere for all guests

• Food Quality: Authentic and flavourful, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients

• Pro Tip: Pair your meal with a selection from their curated wine list, which features both classic and emerging wine regions, enhancing the Southern French dining experience
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

From the iconic Lapland-inspired dishes at Restaurant Lappi to the fresh and innovative flavours at Levant Bulevardi, Helsinki’s food scene offers a delightful exploration of both tradition and innovation. Whether you’re enjoying a comforting bowl of salmon soup or discovering Nordic fine dining, each meal brings you closer to the heart of Finnish culture.
Hyvää ruokahalua!