Helsinki

A small, relaxed bistro in the heart of Helsinki, with a daily-changing menu built around whatever’s freshest. The cooking leans French with a few Italian touches—simple, well-executed plates that don’t try too hard. Muru takes its wine seriously, and the staff actually know what they’re talking about. If you’re into pairings or just want to try something new by the glass, this is a good call.

A focused take on Finnish fine dining, where old techniques—curing, fermenting, smoking—are used in quietly inventive ways. Dishes are built around local ingredients, and the space itself reflects modern Finnish design without overdoing it. If you’re curious about how Finnish cuisine can be reimagined, this is the place.

A small French bistro tucked into central Helsinki, Pastis does the classics well—steak frites, mussels, tartare—without overcomplicating things. The vibe is relaxed and unpretentious, and the wine list is solid, with plenty by the glass.

Set in a former 1910s bank near the Market Square, Salutorget keeps some of the original details—marble floors, wood-panelled counters, and a stained-glass mural behind the bar. It’s a polished, quiet space that works for both a long lunch and a slow dinner. The menu leans classic—seafood, soups, clean flavours—and they serve traditional afternoon tea, which is still rare in Helsinki. There's also a terrace with a view of the harbour, good on warm days. Locals actually come here, which says something.

Located in Katajanokka, Nokka is a key player in Helsinki’s food scene, known for its focus on seasonal Finnish ingredients. The kitchen works closely with small producers across the country, from Lapland’s forests to local farms. The menu changes with what’s fresh and pure, offering a clear connection to the source.

Open since 1972, Saslik is Finland’s best-known Russian restaurant, with décor straight out of the Czarist era—velvet, candlelight, and heavy drapes included. The menu sticks to old favourites: blinis, spiced beef, bear dishes, and over-the-top signatures like Ivan’s Sword and Baked Alaska. It’s theatrical, a bit over-the-top, and exactly what you'd expect from a place that hasn’t changed much in decades—in a good way.

An institution since the 1930s, Savoy sits above Esplanadi with rooftop views and interiors originally designed by Alvar Aalto. It’s one of Helsinki’s most iconic dining rooms—quiet, understated, and tied to the city’s history. The food blends French technique with Finnish ingredients, and service is formal but not stiff. Pricey, certainly, but surely memorable.

Toscanini brings a slice of Tuscany to Helsinki with straightforward, generous dishes made from quality, fresh ingredients. The menu sticks to classics—ribollita, bistecca, fresh pasta—without fuss or frills. The atmosphere is informal, friendly, and a bit rustic, making it a good spot for a relaxed meal that feels honest and well done.