The Best Traditional Restaurants in Helsinki

Helsinki’s food scene is buzzing, and 2025 is proving to be a fantastic year to dive right into it! From cozy eateries serving Finnish classics to sleek Michelin-starred spots pushing the boundaries of modern cuisine, the city’s culinary landscape offers something for everyone. Wondering about best restaurants in Helsinki? Wonder no more…

In fact, Helsinki ranks as one of the top foodie destinations in Europe—and for good reason! Whether you’re sipping on freshly brewed coffee in one of the city’s minimalist cafés or savoring a creative reimagining of traditional Nordic fare, Helsinki has become a true haven for food lovers.

Let’s face it: food is more than just sustenance—it’s culture, it’s art, and it’s experience. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into some of the best restaurants in Helsinki that are serving up unforgettable flavors and experiences!

Top Traditional Finnish Restaurants in Helsinki

Helsinki is home to some amazing traditional restaurants where you can savor authentic Finnish dishes. For a taste of Finnish history and hearty local fare, Savotta offers a rustic setting and a menu filled with classics like smoked salmon, reindeer meatballs, and mushroom soup.

If you’re in the mood for cozy, seasonal dining, Kuu specializes in modern takes on traditional dishes like arctic char and fried vendace, making it a must-visit for anyone craving Finnish comfort food with a twist. Finally, Kosmos, which has been serving locals since 1924, continues to delight with dishes like salmon soup and traditional meatballs, making it a piece of culinary history in the heart of Helsinki.

Modern Dining in Helsinki: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Helsinki’s dining scene has evolved beyond its traditional roots, with a rising number of restaurants offering innovative takes on Nordic cuisine. At Olo, a Michelin-starred restaurant, guests can indulge in a multi-course tasting menu that creatively combines Finnish ingredients with contemporary cooking techniques.

For a more relaxed yet refined experience, Ravintola Nolla is a zero-waste restaurant focused on sustainability, offering a seasonal menu that changes based on what’s fresh and local. Whether you’re enjoying avant-garde dishes or a beautifully plated modern classic, Helsinki’s fine dining scene offers an experience you won’t forget.

Savotta

Located in the heart of Helsinki, Savotta is known for serving up traditional Finnish dishes with a modern twist. The restaurant’s rustic decor and cozy atmosphere make it the perfect place to enjoy Finnish cuisine.

The interior design of the restaurant is inspired by the Finnish wilderness and features wooden furniture, antlers, and traditional Finnish textiles. The menu at Savotta is focused on traditional Finnish cuisine and features dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy dishes such as reindeer meatballs, smoked salmon, and traditional Finnish mushroom soup. The restaurant also offers a selection of Finnish beers and a carefully curated wine list to complement the menu. Overall, Savotta provides a unique dining experience that celebrates Finnish culture and heritage.

Kuu

Kuu is a traditional Finnish restaurant located in the trendy Punavuori neighborhood of Helsinki. The restaurant is known for its focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and modern interpretations of classic Finnish dishes. Kuu specializes in serving up classic dishes like salmon soup, fried vendace, and braised pork. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and warm hospitality make it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.

Kuu’s menu features dishes such as reindeer, elk, and arctic char, as well as vegetarian options. The restaurant’s cozy interior, complete with rustic wooden tables and soft lighting, creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests. Kuu also has an extensive wine list featuring both local and international selections, making it a popular spot for special occasions and romantic dinners. Overall, Kuu is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience traditional Finnish cuisine in a modern and elegant setting.

Kosmos

Kosmos is a traditional Finnish restaurant located in the heart of Helsinki. Established in 1924, it has been serving traditional Finnish cuisine for nearly a century. The interior of the restaurant has retained its original charm with classic furnishings and vintage décor. The menu features classic Finnish dishes, such as reindeer, salmon soup, and traditional meatballs, made from high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. 

The restaurant is known for its extensive selection of Finnish beers and spirits, which can be paired with the dishes to enhance the flavors. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. With its long history and traditional Finnish cuisine, Kosmos is a must-visit restaurant for those looking to experience the best of Helsinki’s culinary traditions.

Sea Horse

Sea Horse is a legendary Helsinki institution that has been serving traditional Finnish food since 1934 and it’s one of the oldest restaurants in the Capital. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and classic decor make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy dishes like grilled herring, and Baltic herring soup.

Located in the historic Helsinki Market Square, the restaurant is known for its traditional Finnish seafood dishes, including smoked and salted fish, caviar, and a variety of seafood soups. The interior of the restaurant has been preserved in its original 1930s style, with dark wood paneling and maritime-themed decor. The Sea Horse has been visited by many famous guests over the years, including the Finnish President Urho Kekkonen, the author Ernest Hemingway, and the composer Jean Sibelius. Today, the restaurant remains a popular spot for both locals and tourists, who come to enjoy the historic atmosphere and the delicious seafood dishes.

Konstan Möljä

Konstan Möljä is a cozy, family-run restaurant that specializes in traditional Finnish home cooking. The restaurant’s menu features classic dishes like pea soup, meatballs, and creamy salmon soup, all served in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

It is located in the heart of Helsinki’s Kruununhaka district. The restaurant has been in operation since 1897, and its rustic decor and warm ambiance reflect its long-standing history. The menu features classic Finnish dishes, such as reindeer and salmon, as well as seasonal specialties, like mushrooms. The highlight of the restaurant is its charcoal grill, which adds a smoky flavor to the meat and fish dishes. Konstan Möljä also has an extensive wine list with options from both Finland and abroad.

Conclusion

Helsinki isn’t just a city for history buffs and design lovers—it’s a true culinary destination, and its dining scene is ready to steal your heart (and your taste buds). Whether you’re relishing the nostalgia of classic Finnish dishes or treating yourself to cutting-edge modern flavors, Helsinki’s best restaurants deliver on every front.

The variety here is unmatched—each restaurant offers a unique experience that combines local ingredients, innovative techniques, and the Finnish love for good, hearty food. So, whether you’re in town for a day or a week, don’t just walk by these spots—dine in, savor the flavors, and let the city’s food culture sweep you off your feet. Ready to taste Helsinki? Your next meal is waiting!