Peaceful Wood-fired Sauna Stay

Located midway between Helsinki Cathedral and the sea, is this simple little bistro decorated in blue and white tones, where the welcoming service team help to create an upbeat atmosphere. Two regularly changing, keenly priced set menus are the draw, with the natural, uncomplicated dishes inspired by modern Mediterranean flavours. The chefs have a great understanding of their ingredients and treat them with care, and flavours are subtle but put together in well-thought-out combinations, such as asparagus and nori seaweed or rhubarb with Earl Grey and lemongrass.

In the village-like Puu-Vallila, one of Helsinki’s most distinctive districts, old wooden houses painted in pastel colours sit on narrow winding streets dotted with courtyards. And at its edge, housed within a former butcher’s shop, is this neighbourhood bistro, whose unfussy feel is a perfect fit. Broth and bread are served before the four-course set menu, which can be expanded with two extra dishes; if you’re hungry, go for the latter option. You might find oyster with roast pumpkin and bell pepper purée or blueberries with caramel, douglas fir syrup and liquorice ice cream.

This small bistro in the peaceful Kruununhaka neighbourhood is a hit with the locals, who come here to enjoy flavoursome Finnish dishes crafted from regional ingredients. Square black tables are spread over two dimly lit rooms – where empty wine bottles act as vases – and you’ll be warmly welcomed in by Laura, Tom and the whole team. The menu changes every three weeks, in line with the latest seasonal produce available, and is often supplemented by daily specials that are chalked up on the blackboard. If it’s on the menu, the peanut swiss roll with potato skin ice cream is a must-try!

There is a comfortable and contemporary feel to this restaurant in the neighbourhood of Töölö. The cooking is inspired by the seasons and the well-constructed dishes deliver layers of intense flavours, with texture and acidity also playing a key role. There is generosity in the tasting menu offer, including some servings split across multiple complementary dishes – as with scallop presented both raw and as a dried powder to add flavour to a cabbage salad. Wine pairings are available to enhance the experience.

A huge anchor and propeller mark out this harbourside warehouse, where three high-ceilinged rooms are decked out with exposed brick and varnished wood; ask for a spot by the open kitchen if you like to watch the action. Top-quality ingredients are carefully sourced and precisely prepared, resulting in attractively presented dishes with a Finnish heart. You might find cold smoked pink salmon with kohlrabi and fermented apple; fried wild reindeer with cranberry sauce; or cloudberries with white chocolate mousse and sea buckthorn. Friendly service and a wide-ranging wine list add to the experienc

A fun night out is guaranteed at this converted warehouse in a corner of Katajanokka Harbour, close to Uspenskin Cathedral. The serving team are enthusiastic, the atmosphere is contagious, and from the open kitchen come meticulously prepared and appealingly presented dishes that deliver on flavour.