Restaurants with the best atmosphere

Kultá Kitchen & Bar
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The abundant restaurant offerings in Helsinki might make it difficult for you to choose where to eat, yet if you are looking for a restaurant with a cosy atmosphere then we have a list for you. Among the restaurants in the capital, we picked ten wonderful places that stand out in terms of food, drink and atmosphere.

Kulta Kitchen and Bar

Moody, dark interiors, with a modernised decor dedicated to the Northern most part of Finland, Kulta Kitchen pays an ode to Lapland's food and culture. At the core of the restaurant, you can find the majestic and beautiful north at its best. The menu pays homage to the northern roots by including the purest ingredients such as game, reindeer, mushrooms, lichen and birch leaves from the north. The carefully designed interior of the restaurant and the menu exude a relaxed and harmonious atmosphere of the north. The tableware has been designed by Anu Pentik to reflect the soulful character of Kultá Kitchen. 
Bulevardi 28

Carelia

Restaurant Carelia is located right across the street from The National Operahouse. Carelia is a unique brasserie in an old pharmacy milieu serving classic French cuisine dishes with innovative touch and best ingredients. The atmosphere itself with unique surroundings and the original decor saved from the 1920s pharmacy is an experience. Carelia is also known for its wine selection which is one of the best that Helsinki has to offer and delicious but simple menu along with friendly and professional service. 
Mannerheimintie 56

Saslik borsts
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Šašlik

Arguably the most iconic Russian restaurant in Helsinki, Šašlik has been serving authentic Russian cuisine since 1972. The atmosphere in the restaurant is characterised by its intimate cabinets that exude an old world feel. Stepping into the restaurant instantly gives you the feeling that you have stepped into an era bygone, imagine Cold War spies sitting in the shadows over long wet lunches that stretch into long wet dinners. This trickery of the mind is provided by the interior décor which is dominated by crystal chandeliers, dark wallpapers and ornamentally framed paintings that, together with the colourful glass mosaics in the windows, provide a luxurious yet cosy atmosphere. The menu at Šašlik features all the classics of the Russian cuisine, from borscht soup to pelmeni. You can have your champagne bottle opened with a sabre using the “Sabrage” technique, vodka is served in true Russian style by the gram, and troubadours dressed in traditional Russian costumers play balalaikas, thereby blurring the distinction between a truly luxury restaurant experience and all possible movie clichés of what a Russian restaurant should be like. 
Neitsytpolku 12

Pastis

Nothing exudes a unique atmosphere than the French, so how about give French dining a go. Pastis - a little piece of Paris in the heart of Helsinki. This sweet little bistro brings together classic hand made French delicacies and an intimate atmosphere. The warm and authentic vibe of this eatery is complemented with quality wines and individual service thus providing a complete dining experience. 
Pieni Roobertinkatu 2

Ravintola Olo
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Olo

If you want to embrace the minimalist Nordic atmosphere then you cannot go wrong with Olo. This modern Nordic gourmet cuisine restaurant at the heart of Helsinki represents the modern sustainable take on food. Traditional raw materials of the North are well-respected and used lovingly in their food. Simple cooking which packs a flavoursome punch is at the heart of the menu. The chefs follow the yearly cycle of the Nordic nature, bringing to the table only what is at best at a given time. The natural and clean flavours of land and sea reign in Olo's kitchen. The restaurant has a Michelin-star since 2011. 
Pohjoisesplanadi 5

Shelter

An old warehouse at Katajanokka harbor gives shelter to friends of good food and drink. The restaurant serves a la carte but also Chef´s Menus with 3, 4 or 5 surprise courses. With its dark hued interiors and modern atmosphere Shelter brings together minimalism as well as modernity. Shelter’s food is always inspired by seasonal flavors and the kitchen aims to bring something new to every serving. Over the years, Shelter’s kitchen has created beloved classics from the city’s acclaimed breads to the acclaimed tartar, grilled portions and mouth-watering desserts. 
Kanavaranta 7

Bar Teos

Bar Teos is an atmospheric Mediterranean tapas bar where, in addition to inspiring murals, guests can enjoy very affordable European wines, drinks and foreign beers. From the restaurant’s wide selection of tapas, you can pick individual delicacies with a drink or enjoy the full tapas menu. Bar Teos is a unique social restaurant due to the environment, suitable for everyday relaxation, a fun evening and a friend's party. 
Runeberginkatu 61

BasBas & Staff Wine Bar
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BasBas

If you are looking for a cosy, moody atmosphere then Baskeri & Basso Bistro is a place worth going to. Informally known as BasBas the bistro has found its inspiration from an amalgamation of cosy Parisian bistros, casual San Francisco joints and small Italian osterias. The cuisine at the restaurant is ingredient driven yet daring in its outrageous simplicity. It serves a variety of enjoyable natural wines from elegant and classic to new and experimental.
Tehtaankatu 27-29

Harju 8

Harju 8, located on Kallio's Harjutori has a relaxed yet enchanting atmosphere. It is a place where you can pop by on your own if you are in the mood to spend quality time with yourself or set up a remote office for the day or enjoy the company of family or friends. Harju 8's menu is a fun combination of tradition and modern cuisine. The more traditional selection includes salmon in hollandaise sauce, cabbage rolls, beetroot steaks and pancakes, whereas the modern twist is added with parsnips, zucchini pasta and lamb. So there is plenty to choose from for everyone.
Harjutori 8

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The abundant restaurant offerings in Helsinki might make it difficult for you to choose where to eat, yet if you are looking for a restaurant with a cosy atmosphere then we have a list for you. Among the restaurants in the capital, we picked ten wonderful places that stand out in terms of food, drink and atmosphere.