Local restaurants representing a more traditional style include Meiccu in Meilahti, which has been painstakingly restored to its 1950s splendour with birch panels and lamps by Finnish designer Paavo Tynell; its menu includes timeless favourites such as vorschmack and hunter’s sandwich. Another traditional favourite that is among the cream of local restaurants in Helsinki is the bistro Pikku Hukka in Herttoniemi.
Two of the best Neapolitan pizzerias in Helsinki are also located outside the city centre: Luca in Lauttasaari and Capperi in Oulunkylä. Fat Lizard in Otaniemi also serves fine pizzas, and the hamburgers of Treffi in Herttoniemi have been rated the best in Helsinki.
Excellent local bars can also be found to the east and west of the city centre that are worth traveling to get to. The legendary Pikkulintu beer restaurant in the Puotila shopping centre is known for its impressive selection of beers and is also a favourite destination among Finnish whiskey enthusiasts. The Gallows Bird in Tapiola in turn is one of the best British pubs in the whole of Finland.
Other establishments that have attracted a loyal customer base include Kirkuk, which serves juicy shish-kebabs in East Helsinki at the Puhos shopping centre, and Persialainen ravintola in Leppävaara, which specialises in Iranian cuisine.
Helsinki’s excellent public transport makes it fast and easy to reach these classic restaurants. Whether you travel by metro or local commuter train, these local favourites are never far away!