Strolling along the streets of Helsinki, one could easily get the impression that most restaurants in town are closed on Sundays. Businesses in Finland are obliged to pay employees double wages on Sundays, so the number of restaurants that remain open is much more limited than on weekdays and Saturdays. As a result, it’s a good idea to reserve a table for your Sunday lunch in advance.
Sunday is the perfect day to sample Finnish classics, from fried herrings and salmon soup to onion steak and vorschmack for example in Elite, Sea Horse, KuuKuu, or Kappeli. But if you prefer French or Italian classics, the city has plenty of good options like Alexanderplats, Mauritz, Brasserie Kämp, The Cock, or Bistro Bardot. And, if you want to enjoy your Sunday comfort plate in more bistro-style surroundings, you could choose from Kannas, Cella, Manala, Kolme Kruunua, Pikku Hukka, Adlerfelt, or Bar 10. Seafood and fish lovers will head especially to Salve, Merimakasiini, and Sushibar + Wine.
Mother’s Day on the second Sunday of May and Father’s Day on the second Sunday of November are especially popular days for Sunday lunches, and many restaurants offer special menus on those days, so you should also check out other alternatives than just the ones on this list.