Ekberg 1852 Ltd: Bulevardi 9, 00120

Finland's oldest bakery, patisserie and cafe, Ekberg has been serving domestic and international delicacies since 1852. Their selection includes both traditional items from the early days as well as new, seasonally changing  menu items. Their beautifully renovated cafe sits right on the scenic Bulevardi, where you can take in brunch while enjoying the sights. The cafe is open every day (except for certain holidays).

The Restaurant Bröd: Bulevardi 26, 00120 (In Hotel Indigo)

This casual dining spot is the perfect place to sit back and enjoy good Helsinki food and good company after an exciting attraction-filled day. Try one of the top lunch dishes like the Basilica broccoli soup or the grilled trout. The Restaurant Bröd also serves a full breakfast menu and a long list of wines. It is also conveniently located in one of Helsinki's top hotels, Hotel Indigo Helsinki - Boulevard, so you can enjoy a good meal and then relax in your accommodating hotel room. 

Levain: Kankurinkatu 6, 00150

Originally established in Punavuori but now also in Töölö, Levain stands as a pioneer in the modern bakery boom. They serve breakfast all day, and their grilled sandwiches are perfect for a takeaway snack. In the evenings, you can relax with a cocktail or glass of wine while enjoying superb pastries like savoury croissants, kouign-amann, or even their daily vegan pastry.

Restaurant Olo: Pohjoisesplanadi 5, 00170

Olo takes a modern Nordic minimalist approach to their dining room, letting the cuisine itself shine. They use local meats like moose and elk in exciting and innovative dishes that are packed with flavours that sing with tradition. Olo has earned a place in World's 50 Best Restaurants, as well as a Michelin star.

Kuurna: Meritullinkatu 6, 00170

You can thank Kuurna for ushering in Helsinki's bistro boom, with their purely Finnish approach to food. Their menu favours root vegetables, grains and fish, serving dishes like tartare or venison with parsnip and spinach. They're tricky to find — their tiny restaurant doesn't even have their name on the sign outside. But everyone who goes agrees that this hidden gem is worth the visit.

Gaijin: Bulevardi 6, 00120

At Gaijin, you get the chance to try both Finnish and authentic Asian flavours. This restaurant uniquely combines flavours from Finland, Japan, Korea and Northern China. The dining room at Gaijin encourages community, with most of the meals served family-style. Additionally, each dish is designed with a personal story of travel and dedication. Make sure you try the green-shell mussels, the beef tartare or the crispy pork. 

Ravintola Palace: Eteläranta 10, 00130

Ravintola Palace, also known as Palace Restaurant, takes a modern, innovative approach to cooking, with a focus on authentic ingredients and genuine craftsmanship. Their menu evolves with the seasons, including fresh produce as well as regional meats, though they can also design a vegetarian menu on request. Every meal there in unforgettable — in fact, back in 1987, Palace became the first Finnish restaurant to earn a Michelin star.

Pompier ESPA: Eteläesplanadi 8, 00101

If you're looking for simple cuisine in the French philosophy made from the best ingredients, you have to visit Pompier ESPA. Their lunch menu varies daily, and their dinner is served a la carte in a relaxed atmosphere. Be sure to bring your children along, as the excellent service extends to treating children as honoured guests.

The Cock: Fabianinkatu 17, 00130

The Cock is a great eatery and corner bar, offering lunches and dinner in a laid-back atmosphere. The menu includes something for everyone, with daily soups for lunch and the dinner menu including steaks, seasonal vegetables, oysters and more. Taking up two floors, they have plenty of space for you to bring the whole family.

Bronda: Eteläesplanadi 20, 00130

 
This restaurant takes its culinary inspiration from all around the Mediterranean, offering bold flavors and sharing plates. Bronda takes pride in offering a playful ambiance, with their creative foods and a DJ spinning on the weekends. Their impressive space, with its high ceilings and large windows, makes it a great setting for any occasion.

Juuri: Korkeavuorenkatu 27, 00130

Juuri values its roots in Helsinki and shows that through its menu, designed with local dishes. Check out the menu to learn not only the source of your food but also to understand where each ingredient comes from. A visit to Juuri will remind you of your home-cooked meals as a child that were complete with good food, good company and a welcoming and accepting environment.

Whether you enjoy a fine dining experience with the freshest seafood or you want to try out traditional Finnish cuisine, you have a lot of great options for the best restaurants in Helsinki. Many are also offering special cafe or wine bar experiences, or allow you to bring your four-legged friend along with you. Dine your way through the city for a memorable trip.