Finland is gearing up to mark the centenary of its independence this year—a momentous occasion considering its complex historical backdrop of having been part of Russia after a lengthy 500-year association with Sweden. As this Nordic nation basks in its growing international reputation for excellence—thanks in part to an enviable education system, exquisite design, delectable cloudberry cakes, and a consistent ranking among the top five happiest countries in the world—Finns are set to celebrate with a series of events throughout the year. These celebrations will compliment an array of annual highlights, including Slush, the dynamic startup networking event often heralded as a fusion of “Burning Man and TED.” In honor of this historic milestone, Vogue reached out to some of Helsinki’s influential tastemakers to unveil their favorite gems within the Finnish capital, from beloved cafés to contemporary restaurants and traditional saunas.
Where to Eat
Insider tips from Ofer Amir and Galith Nadbornik, the duo behind the blog Hungry in Helsinki:
“BasBas is a relatively new culinary hotspot that combines trendy, artistic dishes with a Bohemian ambiance and vintage decor. Open four days a week, it’s wise to book a table in advance. They’ve just launched a wine bar downstairs as well. Muru, situated in the vibrant heart of Helsinki, offers a menu that transforms with the seasons and the chef’s whims. Diners are invited to share their dislikes, allowing the chef to unleash his creativity. For a delightful brunch or lunch, look no further than Mat, a cozy establishment run by a dedicated Swedish woman whose freshly baked bread, pastries, and desserts are nothing short of divine.
Löyly represents the quintessential Scandinavian experience, blending a restaurant, bar, and sauna into one enchanting location adorned with a sweeping deck overlooking the sea. While the food isn’t the primary focus here, the stunning architecture and serene views, especially in late spring and summer, are certainly worth the visit. Farang, tucked away in the picturesque Töölö area, offers a remarkable fusion of Asian and Finnish cuisines, enhanced by its inviting interior design. If you’re in the mood for something vibrant, Bar Favela boasts an eclectic décor with furniture sourced from flea markets. And for fast food enthusiasts, Fafa’s reigns supreme, serving up burgers and vegan delights like falafel and hummus.”
“Café Ekberg, an esteemed establishment since 1852, remains a must-visit for its traditional breakfast offerings and delightful pastries, all set against the charming backdrop of Bulevardi Street in the city center. In the Kallio district, Café Cardemumma serves a selection of Finnish classics crafted with care by its friendly team. Their meringue cake topped with Finnish berries is particularly noteworthy. Lastly, Café Engel occupies a stunning old building, its façade designed by the renowned architect Carl Ludvig Engel, placing it right in front of the iconic Senate Square.”
Where to Sauna
Insights from Maarit Heikkilä, Public Relations Chief at Marimekko: