Best restaurants in Espoo

Grön

★★ Michelin€€€€Creative, Regional Cuisine

Simplicity leads the way at this cosy little restaurant, where the atmosphere is warm and the charming team look after their guests with natural ease. You arrive at either 5pm or 8pm and are served throughout the night by the chefs, who explain each course in detail. Dishes are not only beautiful to look at but comprise layer upon layer of flavour; this could include scallop with honey-roast swede and XO sauce or sea buckthorn with roasted kombu and oolong tea. Fermenting foodstuffs cram the shelves, vegetables come from their garden and the rest of the produce is sourced from within the count

🕐 Mo-Tu,Su off; We-Sa 17:00-24:00

Palace

★★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine

Take in magical views over the harbour from the 10th floor of this modernist building, constructed in 1952 for the Olympic Games. Beautifully delicate modern dishes feature on a multi-course tasting menu packed with well-balanced flavours. These are presented both by the chefs and the top-notch serving team.

Demo

★ Michelin€€€€nordic

It might be slightly more challenging than usual to reach the entrance – you receive a code to open the side door before taking the lift up to the 14th floor – but once you’re safely ensconced, the view from this modern office building is worth it. The modern open-plan interior allows you to see into the kitchen where the chefs prepare the interesting set menu. Top quality local and international ingredients come together in flavoursome dishes crafted using classical techniques, with the breads in particular being a highlight.

🕐 Mo 11:00-15:00; Tu-Fr 11:00-15:00,18:00-23:00; Sa 17:00-23:00

Finnjävel Salonki

★ Michelin€€€€regional

An intimate, elegant and professionally run restaurant with just ten tables – everything from the cutlery to the decanters is made by Finnish craftspeople. Set menus feature modern interpretations of traditional Finnish dishes, with first class ingredients used in detailed, technically skilled combinations.

🕐 Mo,Su off; Tu-Sa 17:00-23:00

Boreal

★ Michelin€€€€local

Chef Pasha Demin may be Russian, but he adores Finland: the people, the way of life and the food – and Helsinki’s Design District is the perfect setting for his restaurant’s forward-thinking philosophy. Rooted in the seasons and the landscape, Boreal’s aim is to encourage guests to connect with the planet. Following the rhythms of nature – and with a variety of preservation techniques in evidence to prolong the seasons – the original cooking showcases ingredients that are foraged from the wild or sourced from regenerative farms. Understated names such as ‘Charcoal Foam’ betray the complexity a

🕐 Mo-Tu,Su off; We-Sa 17:00-23:00

Olo

★ Michelin€€€€finedining

A pretty yellow townhouse located opposite the pier plays host to this cool, minimalist restaurant, where four rooms decked out with locally designed furniture have a delightfully understated feel. Choose between a four-course menu, a tasting menu or a pre-order seasonal tasting menu, all of which showcase produce from the north of the country, with meats such as moose and elk a feature. The refined yet richly flavoured dishes are beautifully presented and often innovative in design, with the sautéed reindeer with Lappish almond potato the chef’s signature. As well as a wine pairing, they offe

305

Bib Gourmand€€Modern Cuisine

Friendly service, sensible prices and plenty of buzz in the air – this is the kind of neighbourhood spot we’d all love to have at the end of our street. It’s located in the north of the city, inside a substantial three-storey building dating back to the 19th Century. The unfussy dishes are a great example of Nordic bistronomy: rustic, satisfying and filled with bold, balanced flavours – whether that be fresh herbs adding vibrancy to a burbot dish, or tart lingonberries cutting through the sweetness of meringue.

🕐 Mo,Su off; Tu-Th 17:00-23:00; Fr-Sa 16:00-23:00

Nolla

Bib Gourmand€€€Modern Cuisine, Finnish

Nolla means ‘Zero’, a hint at this lively neighbourhood restaurant’s zero-waste ethos, a philosophy that underlines everything they do, from composting their own food scraps to creating their uniforms from discarded bed linen. Small producers who share the Nolla philosophy provide the ingredients for the hearty cooking, which is best enjoyed from the generous "Chef’s Choice" menu or while sitting at the Chef’s Table for a ‘behind the scenes’ experience. The dishes pack a punch flavour-wise and could include a wonderfully intense, glossy meat reduction sauce to accompany tender roasted deer.

🕐 Tu-Th 17:00-23:00; Fr-Sa 17:00-00:00

Bona Fide

Bib Gourmand€€finedining

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.

🕐 Mo-Tu,Su off; We-Sa 17:00-23:00

Young Hearts

€€€Modern Cuisine

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.

Muru

€€french

You’d be hard pushed to find a restaurant with a greater focus on wine than Muru. This cosy little bistro is home to quirky touches such as a wine bottle chandelier, a bar made from old wine boxes and a raised ‘cellar’ – and that’s not to mention the nearby wine bar they run. Simple, tasty dishes are on-hand to accompany the excellent wine list, and the sommelier’s pairing suggestions are spot-on.

🕐 Tu-Sa 17:00-23:30

Le Coucou Vert

€€french

The popular Coucou Vert sits opposite the Aleksanterin Teatteri theatre and brings a little slice of France to Helsinki with its charming bistro atmosphere and slightly retro feel. A zinc counter set with open-backed high stools takes centre stage and is fringed by white linen-laid tables, and the efficient yet relaxed service comes courtesy of a smiley young team. The cooking is led by Gallic classics, such as Bayonne ham, onion tarte Tatin and crème brûlée, but some Finnish and wider global influences are also evident. A largely French wine list makes the perfect accompaniment.

🕐 Tu-Fr 17:00-24:00; Sa 16:00-24:00

Latitude 25

€€€€Japanese

You arrive at the same time as your fellow guests for one of two sittings at this small basement restaurant in the city centre. The evening opens with an explanation of the omakase concept and the day’s ingredients – which covers many different types of fish, all sourced at their peak for freshness and quality – and guests are encouraged to ask questions and interact with the chefs. There are just 13 seats at the L-shaped counter, so you get to watch the action up close as the many small courses are prepared directly in front of you. A sake, wine or non-alcoholic pairing completes the experien

Boon Nam

€€thai

A fun, intimate restaurant in the basement of the Hotel St George; the perfect place for a night out with friends. The fragrant dishes cover all the regions of Thailand and are good for sharing. Unsure what to order? Then go for one of the set menus, which also include good vegetarian options. A range of cocktails will help to keep you in the party mood, including some specially made to go with dessert.

🕐 Tu-Th 17:00-23:00; Fr-Sa 16:30-23:00

plein

€€€Modern Cuisine

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.

🕐 We,Th 17:00-23:00; Fr,Sa 17:00-24:00

Gaijin

€€€Asian

Gaijin comes with dark, contemporary décor, a buzzing atmosphere, attentive service and an emphasis on sharing. Its experienced owners offer boldly flavoured, skilfully presented modern takes on Japanese, Korean and Northern Chinese recipes. The tasting menus are a great way to sample the different cuisines.

🕐 Mo 17:00-00:30;Tu-Fr 11:30-00:30;Sa 17:00-00:30;Su 17:00-23:00

Boulevard

€€€Seafood

The welcome is warm, the room elegant, and the food heartening and eminently satisfying. The passion and experience of the two chef-owners is evident in all areas of this likeable restaurant. The quality of the fish and shellfish really comes through, thanks to the classic techniques used by the kitchen.

Flor

€€Modern Cuisine

Set opposite bigger sister and Green Star awarded Natura, Flor (meaning flower), is a relaxed restaurant-cum-wine-bar built by local craftspeople using primarily Finnish wood and decorated using natural, compostable clay paint. Located on a busy pedestrianised street, it’s the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle thanks to its menu of appealing, freshly crafted dishes that are swiftly prepared. Choose from the à la carte or a surprise menu comprising bread, three starters to share, a main, a side and a dessert, with dishes including the likes of organic salmon with citrus-bouillabaisse

Natura

€€€finedining

Well-chosen seasonal Finnish ingredients are used to good effect at this intimate restaurant and techniques like fermenting, pickling, salting, chargrilling and smoking all play their part. Choose from a range of colourful modern small plates or opt for the 'All Out' menu – the full range of dishes in miniature!

🕐 We-Su 17:00-24:00

Bistro Bardot

€€€french

Exposed brick and pipework give this two-roomed brasserie a rustic, slightly retro feel that chimes perfectly with its buoyant atmosphere. It’s a deservedly busy place, named after actress Brigitte Bardot and taking a similarly French outlook on culinary matters too. The extensive à la carte offers all manner of classic brasserie staples, from steak au poivre to tarte Tatin, while the 'menu du jour' provides a simpler, good value selection. The wine list has some appealing French favourites and the friendly team serve the large numbers with ease.

🕐 Mo-Th 11:30-23:00; Fr 11:30-24:00; Sa 12:00-24:00; Su 13:00-22:00

Savoy

€€€French

This local institution’s refurbishment has restored much of its original charm and its 8th floor setting boasts superb views over Esplanade Park. Sophisticated classic dishes have a Finnish-French slant and a modern edge, with the occasional Russian touch. The wine matches are first class.

🕐 Tu-Fr 11:30-24:00; Sa 13:30-24:00

Vinkkeli

€€€finedining

This charming, deservedly popular restaurant is smartly laid out and run by a delightful team, whose attentive and personable service will make you want to become a regular. The honest, well-judged cooking is a pleasing mix of the modern and the traditional.

🕐 Mo 11:30-14:00;Tu-Fr 11:30-14:00,17:00-24:00;Sa 17:00-24:00

Bistro Ego

€€€French, Japanese

Earthy colours set the tone at this relaxed neighbourhood spot, where a huge modern painting takes centre stage and plush cushions and potted plants are dotted about the place. If it’s a more intimate feel you’re after, however, head down the spiral staircase to the cellar, where you’ll be greeted by exposed brickwork and moody lighting. The menus certainly offers something a little different for Helsinki, with French bistro classics given a Japanese makeover; you might find pike quenelles with togarashi spiced lobster cream or yuzu parfait with Japanese rose syrup and caramelised buckwheat.

Spis

€€€Modern Cuisine, Finnish

High ceilings and exposed brick and plaster give this intimate restaurant a faux-industrial feel (keep an eye out for the fork that’s been embedded in one of the walls for many years!) With just five tables, it’s certainly an intimate spot, and the chefs interact closely with guests throughout the night, describing all of their dishes personally; as the evening goes on you really get a feel for their philosophy. Attractively presented dishes feature imaginative combinations and many of them are vegetable-based, such as the baby carrots in lemon and thyme broth topped with spicy mayonnaise.

Le Ankka

€€french

This tiny little restaurant's natural buzz is enhanced by the presence of an open kitchen that feels like it's fully part of the room, while a racing green and matt black colour scheme contribute to the décor’s moody feel. Throughout the cooking, there is a desire to pair Finnish produce with classical French techniques and flavours – exemplified by the use of ‘almond potatoes’ from Lapland to make a vichyssoise. The wine list is made up of mostly natural and organic choices.

🕐 Mo,Su off; Tu-Fr 17:00-24:00; Sa 14:00-24:00

Kuurna

€€regional, french

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!

🕐 Mo-Sa 17:00-23:00; Su off

Aoi

€€Modern Cuisine

Having first collaborated on a pop-up project, Olli Ruotsalainen and Von Quillao decided to set up shop together permanently not far from the marina. A simple place with a relaxed atmosphere and seating for 26 guests, Aoi comes with green walls, oak parquet flooring and black bistro-style furnishings – and brings together the two friend’s personalities. The short, four-course menu changes regularly, with fresh ingredients attractively presented in dishes such as pike perch with fennel and apple or white asparagus with polypody root.

Shelter

€€Modern Cuisine, Finnish

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.

🕐 Mo-Sa 17:00-24:00

Nokka

€€€regional

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

🕐 Mo-Th 17:00-23:00; Fr-Sa 17:00-24:00; Su off