Best Places to Eat in Helsinki

Craving Deliciousness? A Guide to Helsinki’s Best Bites!

Helsinki has a vibrant and diverse food scene, with street food becoming increasingly popular in recent years. Here are some of the best places to get your fix of tasty treats while exploring the city:

Street Food:

  • Kauppahalli (Market Hall): This iconic indoor market is a must-visit for street food enthusiasts. With over 100 vendors selling fresh local produce, seafood, meats, and more, you’ll find everything from traditional Finnish fare to international delicacies.

    • Must-try: Finnish Karelian pies (Karjalanpiirakat) with various fillings (egg, rice porridge, lingonberry are classics!), reindeer stew from a stall in the market hall.

  • Hakaniemi Market Square: Located in the heart of Helsinki, this bustling market offers a great selection of street food stalls selling delicious snacks and meals.

  • Food trucks: Helsinki’s vibrant street life often includes food trucks offering a variety of cuisines, from gourmet burgers and tacos to sweet treats and international flavors.

    • Must-try: Check out the “Food Truck Finland” website or social media for the latest locations and menus. They sometimes have themed events too!

  • Street Food Markets: Helsinki has several street food markets that pop up during the summer months, offering a chance to sample diverse flavors from local vendors.

    • Must-try: Look for seasonal street food events happening in Helsinki - they often feature unique dishes and vendors.

Beyond the Streets (but still delicious):

  • Restaurants:

  • Traditional Finnish:

    • Restaurant Savotta: This restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and authentic Finnish cuisine. Try their reindeer stew, salmon soup, or karjalanpaisti (a traditional meat stew).
    • Ravintola Kuurna: Enjoy a taste of Finland with a modern twist at this restaurant.

  • Cafes & Cafeterias:

  • Fazer Cafe: A Helsinki institution, Fazer is known for its delicious pastries and sweets. Indulge in a Finnish coffee break (kahvitauko) with a cinnamon bun and a cup of coffee.

    • Cafe Regatta: This cafe offers a unique experience with its boat-themed decor and stunning sea views.

But remember: Food truck locations and offerings change frequently, so be sure to check their social media for the latest updates on what’s available.

For the best experience, I recommend checking online resources or local guides to find out which food trucks are currently at the market.**

Tips for Enjoying Street Food in Helsinki:

  • Go during peak hours: Weekends and lunchtimes are usually the busiest times for street food vendors.
  • Bring cash: Some smaller vendors may not accept credit cards, so it’s best to have some cash on hand.
  • Be adventurous: Try new things! Finnish cuisine has a lot to offer beyond just reindeer.

Enjoy the unique atmosphere and variety of foods at these vibrant spots:

  • Restaurant & Bar Locations:
    • “Food Truck Friday” at Kallio: Experience a lively neighborhood gathering with a rotating selection of food vendors every Friday.
    • Helsinki Street Food Festival: A yearly event (usually in summer) showcasing the best local food trucks and their diverse menus.

Enjoy unique culinary experiences!

  • Look for seasonal events: Many street food markets pop up at different times of the year, offering a variety of cuisines from around the world.

Stay tuned to the latest:

  • Check social media: Follow food bloggers, local vendors, and the “Helsinki Street Food” Facebook page for updates on the best food trucks in the city.

  • Try new things: Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and sample something you’ve never tried before.

Be sure to check the hours of operation:

  • Food Trucks often have limited hours, so it’s important to know when they are open before heading over.
  • Local Guides: Ask locals for recommendations! They often know the best hidden gems and seasonal offerings.

Explore different cuisines:

  • Look for variety: From traditional Finnish dishes like reindeer stew (poronkäristys) at the Savotta Market to international flavors like Thai, Indian, or Italian food trucks, Helsinki offers a diverse selection of street food experiences.

  • Try the local favorites:

    • “Mureke” - a traditional Finnish dish with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam.

    Enjoy the atmosphere:

    • Markets in the Market Square: The Hakaniemi Market (and others) is not just about food. It’s also a great place to meet people, enjoy some live music, or simply soak up the lively atmosphere of the city.
      • Experience the variety:

    Keep an eye out for seasonal events and festivals happening in the city. These are often fantastic opportunities to try new and exciting street food options.

Enjoy!