Finland Rolls Out the Welcome Mat for Culinary Adventurers
Finland—a nation renowned for its striking northern lights, rejuvenating saunas, and, notably, its reputation as the happiest country in the world—now has its sights set on another accolade: culinary excellence. For nine consecutive years, Finland has topped global happiness rankings, but as it turns out, there’s much more to the Nordic country than its sunny disposition.
This September, Visit Finland is embarking on an exciting culinary tourism initiative called the Official Tasting Table. The project promises an all-expenses-paid, immersive four-day adventure for 16 fortunate travelers, focusing on the rich tapestry of Finnish cuisine and the local traditions that shape it.
Interested applicants can choose from two unique regional itineraries, each designed to highlight a different facet of Finland’s diverse food culture. One path leads to the country’s picturesque coastal and archipelago region, where the Baltic Sea hugs the shoreline and is adorned with thousands of pine-covered islands and charming seaside towns.
The other itinerary takes participants deep into Lapland, the northernmost area of Finland, characterized by its mesmerizing Arctic landscapes, vibrant reindeer culture, and, of course, those captivating northern lights.
For this culinary journey, eight guests will be selected for each itinerary. The menus, crafted by distinguished Finnish chefs, will be influenced by the insights of local fishermen, farmers, and home cooks.
For the Coast & Archipelago experience, Erik Mansikka, the acclaimed chef behind Turku’s Michelin-starred Restaurant Kaskis, will curate the menu. Mansikka, who also received a Michelin Green Star in 2025, has been celebrated as Finland’s Chef of the Year in 2013.
On the other hand, the Lapland itinerary will feature a menu designed by Joel Manninen, a promising talent in Finland’s culinary landscape. The young chef garnered attention by winning the Finnish Young Chefs Championship in 2025 and later earning silver at the Young Chefs World Championship. He currently serves as head chef at Sky Kitchen & View, a stunning restaurant perched atop an alpine peak in Rovaniemi.
While specific dishes have yet to be unveiled, hints suggest that the menus will reflect the breathtaking landscapes surrounding each experience. In the coastal regions, diners can expect to savor dishes emphasizing smoked fish, shellfish, hearty rye bread, and locally sourced potatoes. In contrast, the Lapland menu will likely showcase reindeer, Arctic char, wild berries, and foraged mushrooms. Coffee enthusiasts will also find a treat; Finland boasts one of the world’s strongest coffee cultures, ranking highly in per capita consumption, so it’s likely that rich coffee and delectable cardamom pastries will make an appearance.
Beyond the dining experience, travelers will engage in a deeper exploration of Finnish culture, enjoying sauna sessions, nature hikes, and the enchanting sights of their chosen region.
How to Join the Culinary Adventure
For those eager to embark on this culinary journey, applications are open worldwide until June 9 at 11:59 PM EEST on HaveSomeFinnish.com. Aspiring participants can submit a short introductory video on Instagram or TikTok, showcasing their passion for Finnish cuisine along with the hashtag #HaveSomeFinnish, while tagging Visit Finland.
The selected participants will be announced on June 29, ready to set off for Finland in September. More details about the itineraries and application process can be found on the Official Tasting Table website.
As Finland aims to cement its status not just as a haven for happiness but also as a culinary destination, this initiative may very well open new doors for travelers seeking memorable gastronomic experiences.