Prepare to be wowed by Helsinki's food scene

In May, the eyes, noses and mouths of the food world will turn to Helsinki for the world-class MICHELIN Guide Nordic Countries Ceremony, around which a delectable assortment of events and experiences will be assembled to highlight the city’s wide-ranging gastronomical talents.

Something for everyone

With a population of just over 660,000, Helsinki never ceases to impress its visitors with its eclectic mixture of high-quality restaurants and delicious flavours. Few other cities of this size can boast such varied and versatile culinary temptations. Helsinki’s restaurant scene has something for everyone, from once-in-a-lifetime fine dining to traditional local classics and a myriad of amazing international options.

Welcome to Finland’s capital’s food-themed year of 2024. Let Helsinki’s culinary excellence surprise you!

Sustainable development

Helsinki’s food culture is characterized by its sustainable choices, unorthodox combinations and authentic, natural flavours. The city’s fresh urban greenery and magnificent sea are accessible to everyone and ingredients sourced from these treasure troves are naturally reflected on Helsinki’s tables. Meals that take their cues from seasonal and local components are the cornerstones of food sustainability. Innovations developed together with companies and universities are reshaping the food landscape to be more responsible. Helsinki is committed to sustainable development in everything it does – gastronomy included.

One-of-a-kind restaurants

The culinary scene of Finland’s capital is characterized by both its accessibility and diversity, as a wide variety of eateries at all price levels and dietary preferences is available. Helsinki is also home to many market halls that offer garden-fresh produce alongside distinctive restaurants and cafés. The Teurastamo area in Helsinki’s Kalasatama district teems with must-see eating and drinking establishments.

Helsinki is also full of charming bakeries, ground-breaking distilleries and microbreweries, and a range of artisans specializing in handmade ice cream, select coffee roasts and first-rate chocolate. One-of-a-kind restaurants extend well beyond the city centre – with some even nestled in the islands of Helsinki’s archipelago.