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As the 21st century is already well under way, Helsinki has got off to an excellent start in renovating and renewing itself as a cultural centre. Museums, galleries, cafes, and restaurants have multiplied and spread throughout the centre of our capital like a virus. What many foreigners don't automatically understand is the size of Helsinki. The truth still is that there are only just over five million Finns, leaving only about 500,000 in the Helsinki area. Therefore, when you compare Helsinki to Europe's other capital cities, it might seem very small and dull. This might have been the general opinion a decade ago, but the effort and work done in the past few years have been unforgettable. Today Helsinki's wining and dining scene is remarkably diverse, with enough bars and restaurants within about a three kilometer radius of the Central Railway Station to satisfy anyone from anywhere. This is the advantage in Helsinki: you can walk anywhere.

Due to the small size of the centre of Helsinki, one difficulty in describing the bar and restaurant scene is the division of it. One reprehensible fact in this city, is the never-ending battle with age. At the age of 24 you are guaranteed admission to all places; below that there are no guarantees. Many clubs and pubs demand proof that you are twenty, others permit those above the age of eighteen. This subject is obviously a constant topic of discussion, and is therefore also an important factor when attempting to divide the places into categories. But Helsinki's centre also has its own districts, which helps in learning to find your way around the city very quickly. Even the young low-budget traveller will find many places to start. Kaisaniemi Park is a beautiful little spot for enjoying the summer sun, located next to the railway station. After visiting the Botanical Gardens here for a minimal entrance fee, enjoy the veranda seats at the old and extraordinary Restaurant Kaisaniemi for a light lunch or just a drink to kill your thirst.

Hakaniemi-Kallio

Continue on towards the Hakaniemi-Kallio area around the beautiful Eläintarhanlahti Bay, where everything is one notch cheaper. Visit Kallion Kulma for a pint or two! Restaurants Cella and Bullman are close by also; there you can enjoy an inexpensive but high-quality meal. The Kallio neighbourhood is situated on quite a high spot topographically, and the Kallio Church at the top of this hill is also a useful landmark. This area is marked by cheap pubs and bars on every other street corner. Ethnic restaurants are also a popular sight, but are perhaps not of the best possible quality. A popular party spot in this area is the disco at the Cumulus Hotel on Läntinen Braahenkatu. Josafat, as the place is called, is full of people under 19. The party ends at 3am here. Not many other discos are located in this direction.

Kruununhaka

Coming back towards town from Hakaniemi over Hakaniemi Bridge we get to the Kruununhaka area. This area is popular for that peaceful lunch or dinner, and quite a few restaurants have opened around these few blocks. Stroll to Meritullinkatu to find Zinnkeller, a western European kitchen serving original German Bratwurst and beer. The Kolme Liisaa bistro is also nearby. Two or three blocks south you will find many more restaurants, including the Russian Kasakka,Finnish legend Suola & Pippuri and the very cheap lunch spot Keko. A small underground disco by the name of Hampaankolo is your only party spot here, but it is open very seldom.

Katajanokka

Continuing this circle around the very centre of Helsinki we stroll the Pohjoisranta to get to the beautiful part of town that is Katajanokka. Covered with buildings from the beginning of last century, this area is full of desirable apartments and houses. Dining here is also enjoyable. Two classy restaurants at the foot of the exquisite Uspenki Cathedral are Sipuli and Kanavaranta, both serving original, contemporary dishes. If you are looking for more ethnic food in the area, the so-called Nepalese restaurant Everest on Luotsinkatu is the place to go. Cheap tasty pizzas can be found at Piccolo Piazza at the end of tram line 4, while the Grand Marina Congress Centre is a sure place to find your stylish restaurant. Back on the road and to the Kauppatori Market Square; instead of continuing straight through Esplanadi Park, which contains numerous cafes as well as Samrat, the best Indian in town, keep going south, staying by the sea. Pass by the Silja Line boat terminals and you will soon reach the expensive area of Kaivopuisto.

Kaivopuisto

Kaivopuisto Park is a lovely place to spend some time in, after which you can stop for a cappuccino at the peaceful Cafe Ursula. Stroll to the opening at the corner of Neitsytpolku and Merisatamanranta, take a ferry to the nearby Uunisaari island and enjoy a modern lunch here. Another cafe down by the shore is Cafe Carusel, where the interior decor and style are as post-modern as they come. Come back towards town through the Eira neighbourhood and take pleasure in the beautiful houses all around you. Glance at the tall Agricola Church, and then have the steak or pizza of your life at Nerone located on Perämiehenkatu. Sepänkatu, Merimiehenkatu and Punavuorenkatu all have pubs and small restaurants scattered here and there. Saslik is the most respected and most expensive Russian restaurant in town, situated on Neitsytpolku.

Iso Roobertinkatu

By now your journey has brought you back towards the very centre. A famous street for drinking and dining has always been Iso Roobertinkatu. Practically the whole street is covered with pubs and restaurants. Persepolis offers a cheap buffet, while Dragon Inn is pure Chinese and Don Tano perhaps one of the best Italian kitchens in town. Jump into Jump Inn for good electronic music and youthful company, but make sure you are 20 years old. The Labyrinth is a bar for people over 22, whilst Black Door just concentrates on getting you the exact beer you feel like tasting. Uudenmaankatu's Babushka Ira offers more Russian food, and KynsilaukkaGarlic next door is for garlic lovers. Continue on to the Finlandia Drink Bar still on the same street, where all concoctions contain Finlandia Vodka. If 2am is not late enough, stop by the trendy Soda for a soda or even a beer. Music here is great, but once again if you are under twenty, don't bother with the last two places. Gloria is a club on Iso Roobertinkatu which hosts music events; however it is not open every night.

Kamppi

Still staying away from the immediate surroundings of the Central Railway Station, we continue on Fredrikinkatu towards the metro station of Kamppi. This is the main area for drinkers and diners between the ages of 18 and 20. Eerikinkatu is also packed with all sorts of places. Wine and dine at Mother,then have a game of snooker at Corona Bar across the street from the gay bar Con Hombres. Continuing down the hill we reach Pub 28, which is popular with youngsters. Sauna Bar a bit further on offers a mysterious atmosphere with, if not live, then at least interesting music. Keep partying at Highlight Cafe or Club Arkadia until 4am; both are located on Fredrikinkatu. In this area a short strip of Annankatu is also full of small pubs and ethnic food spots, including the promising Maithai.The best Japanese restaurant in town, Kabuki, is also close by, on Lapinlahdenkatu. A respected and reasonably priced restaurant serving traditional Finnish cuisine is the A la Maison> next to the Radisson SAS Hotel, where men in suits enjoy the expensive buffet and listen to a smooth live jazz band playing their stuff. Premiere Nights is also a popular club nearby which hosts mostly techno parties.

City Centre

And then we finally get to the real centre of the city. The amount of places to eat and drink just a few steps away from the Central Railway Station is incredible. Just the one building in front of the station includes some of the best places in town. Omenapuu is the best place for your Sunday brunch, while La Tour offers a romantic atmosphere. This same building includes many dance and drinking spots like Aladdin, Poppisand Zetor, but all places require you to be at least 22. Papa Giovanni in the World Trade Center is the most dressy Italian restaurant you will find, Sling Bar in the same building is a small and expensive spot for no one under 24. At Dick Tracy's Diner you definitely get your money's worth of huge steaks, and the same goes for the American-style Restaurant Amarillo on Mikonkatu. Party your night away next door at the Helsinki Club or at the opposite Salsa Club Copacabana, but again not before you are twenty-four. The exploding popularity of Mexican/American food has brought dozens of competitors into this central area, two of the best being Cantina West on Kasarmikatu and Santa Fe in the afore-mentioned World Trade Centre. Bar Chaplin is also a place to shoot pool, and is a very popular drinking spot for people under twenty. If you manage to stay moving until 4am and are still looking for more, your final destination is the new Nosturi in Ruoholahti. Parties here usually start at 5am and continue until noon or so.

Before leaving the city, you must remember to enjoy the respected and very popular pastries served all around the cafes in town. Certainly these delicacies are available almost anywhere, but it is an accepted fact by most that the famous Fazer makes the best treats anywhere (in the world!). Be sure to visit the Fazer Cafe on Kluuvikatu, but go before it gets dark because it is not the easiest place to find a seat in once people leave work.







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Aladdin Night Club


Style? ...What's that?
10 Itätuulenkuja
Helsinki 02100
Finland
+358 9 455 4242
http://www.aladdin.fi
Night Club Aladdin caters to people in their twenties (the minimum admission age is 22). Just follow the signs down the stairs and enter the kitsch world of Aladdin. That is really what the décor is about—it starts with the Arabian Nights, mixes in some other elements and finally creates a wild jumble that is very refreshing in this world of designer restaurants. The going gets equally wild, in a good way (but fear not - Batman is there, watching over everything). The dance floor is well lit with at least a dozen mirror balls. Partying is good, you hear usually what is charting at the moment, while the bar plays Finnish rock. There is also live music every now and then.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Amarillo


Variety of American dishes
9 Mikonkatu
Helsinki 00100
Finland
+358 9 686 0000
http://www.ravintolaopas.net/a...
Amarillo restaurant, situated right in the heart of Helsinki, offers a blend of the American and European cuisine. The chicken tortilla and the restaurant's own special Big Burger are favourites. Amarillo gets crowded quickly and so on Friday nights its advisable to make a reservation or head out early. The restaurant's dim lighting adds to the atmosphere along with the interesting décor. The waiters seem to know what they are doing, and the coffee house connected to the restaurant provides satisfactory service even on weekends. The bar at Amarillo must be one of the largest in the city.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Babushka Ira


Cozy place with good food
28 Uudenmaankatu
Helsinki 00120
Finland
+358 9 680 1405
http://www.ravintolaopas.net/b...
Come by to Babushka Ira to sample some Russian cuisine at reasonable rates. This eastery is known for its lunch buffet served daily. The interior of this small restaurant resembles that of a high-class Russian dining room dating back to the early 1980s. The waitstaff is very efficient and you will be given the menu soon after you are seated. Choose the goose-liver paté for starters, and lamb's kidney tartare-style or the diced sirloin beef with smetana for the main course. Regardless of which day you visit, you are likely to find this place crowded so it is wise to book in advance.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Carusel


Maritime café
10 Merisatamaranta
Helsinki 00150
Finland
+358 9 622 4522
http://www.cafecarusel.com/
This seaside café allows you a good view of maritime Helsinki, from the terrace that seats 250. Watch bungee jumping done from one of the highest platforms in Scandinavia, while you eat. At Carusel you can get lots of different kinds of coffees from different parts of the world—both well-known coffee drinks and the café's own drinks. The kitchen prepares homemade meals, a salad of the day and soup. Different kinds of breads like French or sunflower bread, paninis and toasted sandwiches go well with a regular coffee or café latte. Meetings, seminars, weddings and parties can also be hosted here.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Carusel photo by Timo Sinisalmi
Photo: Timo Sinisalmi
Carusel photo by Juho Tunkelo
Photo: Juho Tunkelo
Carusel photo by Juho Tunkelo
Photo: Juho Tunkelo
 

 
Cumulus Olympia


Hotel for sports lovers
2 Läntinen Brahenkatu
Helsinki 00510
Finland
+358 9 69 151
http://www.cumulus.fi/hotelli....
This hotel in Kallio district is a reasonably priced alternative for those who are keen on swimming, bowling or playing badminton, all available in the local sports hall. Across the street from the hotel is a sports ground where bandy is played during the winter, and football and tennis during the summer. There is easy access to the city centre by public transport, and Linnanmäki amusement park and the Opera are located quite close to the hotel.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Dragon Inn


Inexpensive Chinese fare
18 Iso Roobertinkatu
Helsinki 00120
Finland
+358 9 640 584
http://www.dragons-inn.org/inn...
Dragon Inn is a Chinese restaurant on pedestrian street Iso Roobertinkatu. This street is home to many restaurants and pubs, and is crowded just about every night in the summertime. All restaurants place a terrace outside, as does Dragon Inn. This makes the place look shabbier than it is, but it is nice and tidy inside. Wide-ranging menus offer many specials from the Chinese cuisine at reasonable prices. Normally, both Chinese and Finnish beers are available. Overall, it's a good place with quality food so don't let the outside fool you.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Eläintarhanlahti and Kaisaniemenlahti Bays


Nice place for a stroll
between Pitkäsilta Bridge and the railway
Helsinki 00170-0053
Finland
The inlet made up of the Kaisaniemenlahti and Eläintarhanlahti bays, between Pitkäsilta Bridge and the railway tracks, is a great area for walks. The streets are wide and in a good condition, and there is plenty to see. Kaisaniemenranta is the most beautiful part of the area, a wide boulevard surrounded by trees, framed on one side by the bay and on the other side by old wooden houses and stunning gardens. At Pitkänsillanranta the sights include the leafy shore and the gorgeous buildings looming above, and as you move further to Säästöpankinranta there are parks and a view to the fountain in the middle of the bay. On the opposite side of the bay lie Tokoinranta and Eläintarhantie, an area known not just for architectural sights such as the Helsinki City Theatre, but also for its parks. Most Helsinkiites know Tokoinlahti for the tent that is erected there during the annual Helsinki Festival, as a venue for performances by top Finnish and international artists.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Eläintarhanlahti and Kaisaniemenlahti Bays photo by Montse & Ferran
Photo: Montse & Ferran
Eläintarhanlahti and Kaisaniemenlahti Bays photo by Montse & Ferran
Photo: Montse & Ferran
 

 
Everest


Standing tall!
12 Luotsikatu
Helsinki 00160
Finland
+358 9 622 1996
Though Restaurant Everest is regarded to be a Nepalese restaurant, its dishes and decor seem to be Indian. Standing tall even after several years thanks to its many vegetarian meals and tandoori chicken portions, this eatery is popular among both critics and the public. Chicken tikka is an excellent choice, as is Alu Tama, a mixture of potato, black beans and bamboo shoots. The prices are moderate so you enjoy the taste without making a hole in your wallet.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Fazer


Always in fashion
3 Kluuvikatu
Helsinki 00100
Finland
+358 9 6159 2920
The newest pedestrian street in the city is home to the old, traditional Fazer that has served the inhabitants of Helsinki for decades. The university buildings, Hotel Kämp and Maxim cinema are all nearby. You can have cakes, pastries, handmade chocolates, pasties, pies, savoury snacks and salads in the café or take them with you. You can always have tasty, traditional ice cream and good Finnish coffee. Place an order before hand for parties. Check out the gift service for cakes and personalised Fazer gifts.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Fazer photo by Christian Schwartz
Photo: Christian Schwartz
Fazer photo by ndgmtlcd
Photo: ndgmtlcd
Fazer photo by Seth Chisamore
Photo: Seth Chisamore
Fazer photo by Frank Stjerne
Photo: Frank Stjerne
Fazer photo by Chris Heathcote
Photo: Chris Heathcote
Fazer photo by Matthew Brown
Photo: Matthew Brown
Fazer photo by ma.ti.
Photo: ma.ti.
Fazer photo by Frederik De Bleser
Photo: Frederik De Bleser
Fazer photo by Daze(d)
Photo: Daze(d)
Fazer photo by Jennifer Altgen
Photo: Jennifer Altgen
Fazer photo by Anya Kozhara
Photo: Anya Kozhara
Fazer photo by robin strain
Photo: robin strain
Fazer photo by K. Murto
Photo: K. Murto
Fazer photo by lin_til
Photo: lin_til
 

 
Helsinki Club


Style
8 Kluuvikatu
Helsinki 00100
Finland
+358 9 131 401
Helsinki Club, "Hesari" for short, is the nightclub of Hotel Helsinki. Quite large, it is divided into three sections with separate décor—there is a warm conversation bar, a very cozy and plush whiskey bar with armchairs and cigars, and the dance floor which is a peculiar-looking modernized version of 70s American kitsch, slightly futuristic. The sections were completed by three different designers at different times, but it doesn't look as bad as it might sound. The customers are a varied lot of different ages, mostly consisting of well-dressed, decently well-off folk. The DJ plays European chart-toppers. There are five bars in total, offering something for everyone. There is the occasional live act as well. On weekends there might be queues, so arrive early!

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Jump Inn


White, chrome and a relaxed atmosphere
29 Fredrikinkatu
Helsinki 00120
Finland
+358 9 621 4303
Jump Inn used to be the main hip-hop hangout in Helsinki. Today, the character has drastically changed with a higher minimum age and a complete change of interiors. It is bright with everything in white and chrome, simple, sterile and spacious with a wide-screen television featuring MTV. There is no real dance floor, but of course that doesn't mean that people don't dance. Music is provided by a DJ every night. Expect to hear funk, acid jazz and house. A number of regular club nights run at Jump Inn. Also, every other Sunday there is live music. The minimum age for admission is 22.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Kaisaniemen Park


One of Helsinki's most beautiful parks
Kaisaniemi
Helsinki 00100
Finland
Kaisaniemi Park, behind the National Theatre, is among the most beautiful parks in Helsinki and dates from the 1880s. It was named after Kaisa Wahllund, owner of a very popular café in the park. Students, fans of the park since the opening of the café, still cherish Kaisaniemi as their own. Early in the morning of May Day, the park fills up with students who, celebrate the day with song. The central landmark of the park is the small lake, and there are also several statues in a range of styles. Right in front of the park is Esirippu, a memorial to actress and theatrical impresario Ida Aalberg designed by Raimo Utriainen. Near the main entrance stands Convolvulus, a 1931 sculpture of a young girl by Viktor Jansson. On a steep slope dotted with trees is Nuori hirvi, a realistic statue of a young elk, which blends quite nicely into its surroundings. The park extends all the way to the lovely boulevard on the banks of Kaisaniemi Bay and to the historical Pitkäsilta bridge. The University Botanical Gardens are in the middle.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Kaisaniemen Park photo by niskavuorenheta
Photo: niskavuorenheta
Kaisaniemen Park photo by meeri quinn
Photo: meeri quinn
 

 
Kallion Church


Majestic Kallio church
2 Itäinen Papinkatu
Helsinki 00530
Finland
+358 9 753 2086
http://www.helsinginseurakunna...
The spectacular Kallio church was designed by well-known architect Lars Sonck at the end of the nineteenth century. It was built of grey granite in 1912 onto a high place from where its handsome tower looms over the city. The bells of the tower play a melody composed by Jean Sibelius. Inside the church are numerous interesting details such as a crucifix and relief made by sculptor Hannes Autere. In 1990 the church got an urn cemetery, where urns are temporarily preserved and then transferred into a special stone grave under the church. This restored the old tradition of burying the deceased under the church floor. Kallio church is also known as a centre for organ music in Helsinki, the acoustics are excellent. The church has two organs—the main one represents the French Romantic style, and the other one is Baroque. These organs have been noticed and played by internationally known top organists.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Kasakka


Traditional Russian cuisine
13 Meritullinkatu
Helsinki 00170
Finland
+358 9 135 6288
http://www.ravintolaopas.net/k...
Kasakka is a traditional Russian restaurant with dark interiors in the central city area. This restaurant continues to be popular even after many years and reservations are recommended for every night. A popular appetizer is the cold portion of Russian herring, followed by a vegetable grill or the duck in a cabbage roll. The service is satisfactory. The food is of excellent quality and the prices are reasonable. However, fans of fast food will be disappointment—the traditional food takes a long time to prepare.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Kynsilaukka Garlic


Garlic lovers unite here
22 Fredrikinkatu
Helsinki 00120
Finland
+358 9 651 939
http://www.kynsilaukka.com
Kynsilaukka Garlic has been operating since 1987. This good-quality restaurant lures many garlic lovers just with its name, and lots of goodies can be found on the menu. An interesting starter is the portion of warm goat's cheese. Try its Crêpes filled with mince or a seafood casserole. Prices are higher than average, but its specialties cannot be found elsewhere. There is a calm, peaceful atomsphere for enjoying tasty dishes. All credit cards are accepted.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Kynsilaukka Garlic photo by kitanotenshi
Photo: kitanotenshi
Kynsilaukka Garlic photo by kitanotenshi
Photo: kitanotenshi
Kynsilaukka Garlic photo by Teri Centner
Photo: Teri Centner
 

 
Mikael Agricolan Church


Remarkable large church
23 A Tehtaankatu
Helsinki 00140
Finland
+358 9 709 2390
http://www.helsinginseurakunna...
Agricola church, located near Kaivopuisto, was designed by Lars Sonck, the architect of the famous Kallio church. However, there are no similarities between this church and the Kallio church, as their architecture is inspired by totally different eras. This church is spacious and therefore an ideal place for big events. The tower is 106 metres in height, evoking an image of trying to reach up to the skies. The highest part of the tower is actually a steel needle, the most unique detail of this church. The name of the church comes from the father of the standard Finnish language, Mikael Agricola. Trams 1 and 3T as well as bus 14b can be used to reach this church.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Mikael Agricolan Church photo by Bruce Marsland
Photo: Bruce Marsland
Mikael Agricolan Church photo by Steve Day
Photo: Steve Day
Mikael Agricolan Church photo by Cobweb_Dust
Photo: Cobweb_Dust
 

 
Mother Bar and Kitchen


Beautiful décor
2 Eerikinkatu
Helsinki 00100
Finland
+358 9 612 3990
The first thing you notice about Mother Bar and Kitchen is the interesting interior décor. In the centre of Helsinki, the restaurant is nice and cosy, with tables, bar stools and sofa areas. A glass ceiling covers the stairwell going downstairs to the restrooms, giving quite an eerie feeling. The menu consists mostly of different kinds of snacks, sandwiches and cold dishes. Prices are, in a stylish place like this, fairly high. Overall, good dishes and an impressive artistic taste make up for the notched-up prices.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Nerone


BIG portions, OK prices
27 Pursimiehenkatu
Helsinki 00150
Finland
+358 9 630 670
Restaurant Nerone is situated just a stroll south through town towards the Kvaerner Masa-Yards docks. This popular but fairly small restaurant serves many delicious pizzas, pastas, fish and meat dishes. The wide selection of meat dishes is impressive. Prices are reasonable, and all portions are guaranteed to fill you up (when ordering one pepper steak, you in fact, get two). Employees are friendly; their service is polite and always functions well. This spot is recommended by many.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Nosturi


House of subculture
8 Telakkakatu
Helsinki
Finland
http://www.elmu.fi
Nosturi is successor to the legendary Lepakko, an alternative house of music, art and theatre set up by the local live music association (ELMU) and Radio City, whose demolition was grievously mourned by all local subcultures (hippies, punks, rockers, bikers and avant-garde artists alike). The new site for ELMU turned out to be a previous shipyard hall, which after a successful restoration process was named Nosturi (Crane). Although Radio City and much of the visual arts side of Lepakko transferred to Kaapelitehdas, Nosturi contains musical facilities like Lepakko's (rehearsal studios for bands, club rooms, concert venues), featuring similar concerts and drawing the same audience, and it has quickly established itself as the foundation of the Finnish rock scene.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Nosturi photo by Juha Ristolainen
Photo: Juha Ristolainen
Nosturi photo by Carl Alexander Wescott
Photo: Carl Alexander Wescott
Nosturi photo by wonderworld74
Photo: wonderworld74
Nosturi photo by Juha Ristolainen
Photo: Juha Ristolainen
Nosturi photo by JuicyBurger
Photo: JuicyBurger
Nosturi photo by wonderworld74
Photo: wonderworld74
Nosturi photo by jani
Photo: jani
Nosturi photo by JuicyBurger
Photo: JuicyBurger
Nosturi photo by phonono
Photo: phonono
Nosturi photo by XeijaX
Photo: XeijaX
Nosturi photo by Toni Laakso
Photo: Toni Laakso
Nosturi photo by Henry Lehto
Photo: Henry Lehto
Nosturi photo by Pekka PT
Photo: Pekka PT
Nosturi photo by david
Photo: david
 

 
Papa Giovanni


Italian with style
7 Keskuskatu
Helsinki 00100
Finland
+358 9 622 6010
A nice, relaxed atmosphere for dining, drinking wine, discussing or just enjoying yourself awaits you at Papa Giovanni's. A personalised décor is planned carefully and carried out with delicacy. One of the interesting ideas is a cabinet for wines, made of glass. You can easily look at the good selection of different kinds of wines and make your own decision. Or ask the waiter; staff is really polite and have great knowledge of food and drinks. Instead of music, you can sometimes hear little birds singing. Food is, or course, Italian. You will find everything from pasta to steak, always with some specialties added like mortadella or ricotta cheese.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Piccolo Piazza


Inexpensive and cozy
3E Merisotilaantori
Helsinki 00160
Finland
+358 9 175 384
Piccolo Piazza is a small, cosy pizzeria at the Katajanokka end-stop of the no 4 tramline. The place is furnished like any normal Finnish kitchen—in a simple and elegant manner. Just a few tables are needed to fill up the small area. Still, there always seems to be space for one or two more customers. The menu offers various different kinds of pizzas, pastas, and salads. This place has been going from strength to strength since many years, and is especially popular with young diners. Though it is not very spacious, the service is quick and it accepts credit cards.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Premiere Nights


Classic in Helsinki nightlife
21 Pohjoinen rautatiekatu
Helsinki 00100
Finland
+358 9 4544991
Situated where the classic student nightclub KY used to be, the refurbished Premiere Nights is also owned by the Student Union of the Helsinki School of Economicslike its predecessor. Premiere Nights is on the top floor of a bar and pub. The music consists mostly of chart hits, sometimes taking a dive into techno. The dance floor is under a balcony and the club has several bars. Occasionally, the live artists are featured. On Wednesdays, Club Never features pulsating trance music, gathering the hardest partygoers every week. There is no admission fee.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Radisson SAS Royal Hotel Helsinki


Luxury for the business traveller
2 Runeberginkatu
Helsinki 00100
Finland
+358 (0)20 1234 700
http://www.radisson.com/helsin...
This contemporary hotel is located on the outskirts of the city center, next to Kamppi metro station. There are a lot of restaurants and cafés near by, and it is quick and easy to get anywhere in the city on foot, by taxi or by bus. Although there are not many important sights right outside the hotel, you can visit the Temppeliaukio church with ease from here. Some of the rooms and all weekend stays include a buffet breakfast. All rooms include a visit to the sauna in the morning or evening. Scandinavian, Oriental, Italian, and Art Deco rooms are available. Business rooms are the largest and most peaceful in the hotel, and come with a personal safe. There are restaurants, a bar, saunas, gym and solarium, and aerobics classes are offered.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Radisson SAS Royal Hotel Helsinki photo by Heikki Luhtala
Photo: Heikki Luhtala
Radisson SAS Royal Hotel Helsinki photo by Duane Storey
Photo: Duane Storey
 

 
Railway Station


Renowned architectural masterpiece
Rautatientori
Helsinki 00100
Finland
The Railway Station is an important symbol of Helsinki, as well as an internationally renowned pearl of architecture. The building dates from 1914, and represents late Finnish Art Nouveau. It is the main work of famous architect Eliel Saarinen. The façade of the Railway Station, with its main entrance framed by a row of huge statues holding lanterns designed by Emil Wikström, is a familiar sight to all Finns. The pink—granite and copper structure with its famous clock tower is beautiful inside as well; old lamps and a beige colouring are complemented by original woodwork, creating a warm atmosphere. The Railway Station brings together many forms of travel: railway, metro and buses (on the square next to the station). Trams go right past the building as well. The shops and tunnels under the station offer bargain shopping opportunities and good connections to most of the city centre. The tunnels are a convenient route to take especially during bad weather.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Railway Station photo by Stian Jondal
Photo: Stian Jondal
Railway Station photo by Charanpal Dhanjal
Photo: Charanpal Dhanjal
Railway Station photo by Anton Särkkä
Photo: Anton Särkkä
Railway Station photo by Petri Tuohimaa
Photo: Petri Tuohimaa
Railway Station photo by Jenni Meriluoto
Photo: Jenni Meriluoto
Railway Station photo by Kevin Pollard
Photo: Kevin Pollard
Railway Station photo by David Harding
Photo: David Harding
Railway Station photo by Philip Menke
Photo: Philip Menke
Railway Station photo by Mikael Albrecht
Photo: Mikael Albrecht
Railway Station photo by annmariii3
Photo: annmariii3
Railway Station photo by Juha Heikkila
Photo: Juha Heikkila
Railway Station photo by michelle
Photo: michelle
Railway Station photo by Geoff Stahl
Photo: Geoff Stahl
Railway Station photo by Karel Moravec
Photo: Karel Moravec
Railway Station photo by Stéphane Lecorney
Photo: Stéphane Lecorney
Railway Station photo by Geoff Stahl
Photo: Geoff Stahl
Railway Station photo by StaneStane
Photo: StaneStane
Railway Station photo by samiru
Photo: samiru
Railway Station photo by Maria Manner
Photo: Maria Manner
Railway Station photo by Paul James
Photo: Paul James
Railway Station photo by jim proffit
Photo: jim proffit
Railway Station photo by Ramon Sadornil
Photo: Ramon Sadornil
Railway Station photo by Tobias Grosch
Photo: Tobias Grosch
Railway Station photo by Phil Davies
Photo: Phil Davies
Railway Station photo by Beth Goldner
Photo: Beth Goldner
Railway Station photo by Jarkko Karhunen
Photo: Jarkko Karhunen
Railway Station photo by Proenski
Photo: Proenski
Railway Station photo by Harri Haataja
Photo: Harri Haataja
 

 
Ravintola Kaisaniemi


Popular summer restaurant
6 Kaisaniementie
Helsinki 00100
Finland
+358 9 632 223
http://www.ravintolakaisaniemi.fi
Restaurant Kaisaniemi is an interesting phenomenon on the north side of Kaisaniemi park, right in the heart of town. This extremely old octagonal building has hosted numerous events and parties, and is still available for special reservations. As a restaurant, Kaisaniemi flourishes as summer sets in. With a large terrace in the backyard, it attracts customers like a magnet. Winters balance out this popularity, and Kaisaniemi is practically empty. Its speciality is the Sunday buffet, which definitely gives you your money's worth. A large variety of meat stews, fish and vegetables is available. The interior of the restaurant itself is something to see. The old-fashioned décor and the peculiar structure of the dining hall remind visitors of the building's age. Many locals of Helsinki are emotionally attached to Restaurant Kaisaniemi and the memories it arouses.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Ravintola Kaisaniemi photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Samrat


Indian food in the centre
22 Etelä-Esplanadi
Helsinki 00130
Finland
+358 9 611 001
http://www.samrat.fi
Indian food arrived in Helsinki a few years ago and by now it has found its place right in the centre. Samrat is next to the beautiful Esplanadi park, and it is really easy to find. If you are looking for good, inexpensive Indian food for lunch, you will find it right here. Samrat is proud of its Indian tradition; so it might be a good idea to keep in mind that here spicy really means hot. Whilst eating you can also admire the handmade furniture and the carefully planned colours and shapes of the sauces and food.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Santa Fe


Mexican in the centre
15 Aleksanterinkatu
Helsinki 00100
Finland
+358 9 4242 6010
http://www.ravintolaopas.net/s...
Nowadays you no longer have to use a map or your feet to find good ethnic food in Helsinki. You find it easily in the middle of the city at Santa Fe. Santa Fe serves Mexican and Cajun food, and its interior really fits its style. It has a relaxed atmosphere that you might want to enjoy for a long time. On the drinks list you will find Spanish wines and Mexican beers. There are many little portions for snacks, like nachos, but even if you are really hungry you will not have to leave the restaurant that way. Try for instance chicken wings with two kinds of dips. During the summer months you can also listen to live jazz in the inner yard.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Saunabar


Comfy café-bar with a sauna
27 Eerikinkatu
Helsinki 00180
Finland
+358 9 586 5550
http://www.saunabar.net/
What could really be more Finnish than to couple a sauna with a bar? The spacious sauna is clean and comfortable and has separate facilities for men and women. Each changing room has a large fish tank and a mini-bar, and on the women's side there is also a cosmetics corner, including a hairdryer. The sauna has to be booked beforehand, except on Sundays and Mondays. You can enjoy toasted sandwiches, other snacks and of course beers, apart from playin pool or surfing net. There is a DJ five nights a week, usually playing funk, soul, electro or other relatively gentle music. Occasionally there is also live music.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Saunabar photo by Minh Tran
Photo: Minh Tran
 

 
Soda


Trendy young people's place
16-20 Uudenmaankatu
Helsinki 00120
Finland
+358 9 612 1012
Soda is one of the most popular young people's bars in Helsinki, especially on weekends, when it can be very crowded indeed. This is also true of the nightclub in the basement. The interior is very modern with a metallic bar and matching tables and chairs. The long window looks out onto Annankatu. The people who come here are mostly young and very well dressed in the latest fashion items. There is generally a DJ here every night, or at least always on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Those nights are very busy.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Talon Tapaan


Delicious Finnish fare
19 Salomonkatu
Helsinki 00100
Finland
+358 9 685 6606
One excellent place to enjoy traditional Finnish cuisine is restaurant Talon Tapaan. The menu of the eatery includes a wide range of meats, fish and vegetarian dishes. Popular selection include rabbit medallion, reindeer meatballs or pikeperch and potato blinis. The décor in this Finnish restaurant is pleasant and bright. Huge plastic butterflies cover the walls in great numbers and one can admire their beauty while enjoying a delicious meal.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
University Botanical Gardens


Stunning place to relax and learn
44 Unioninkatu
Helsinki 00170
Finland
+358 9 1912 4453
http://www.fmnh.helsinki.fi/en...
The University Botanical Gardens are a park within a park — an area of leafy trees, small footpaths and beautiful flowers and bushes. It is also the home of Finland's greatest botanical collection. The gardens came to Helsinki when the university changed locations after the great fire of Turku. The gorgeous greenhouses have been restored several times over the years, most extensively after the 1944 air raids. The gardens, designed by St. Petersburg architect Franz Falderman in the 1830s, are best known for their gorgeous C. L. Engel—designed main greenhouse, the central dome of which looms elegantly on the Kaisaniemi horizon. It is home to numerous tropical plants (cacti, orchids, royal water lily, cocoa), whereas the outdoor plants are from more temperate climates. The garden's main entrance is on Kaisaniemenranta, a boulevard that follows Kaisaniemi Bay, which is lined with old Empire—style wooden houses.

Review © 2007, Wcities
University Botanical Gardens photo by Maxim Dolgobrod
Photo: Maxim Dolgobrod
University Botanical Gardens photo by hugovk
Photo: hugovk
University Botanical Gardens photo by Laura I. Kansanen
Photo: Laura I. Kansanen
University Botanical Gardens photo by Daniel Stone
Photo: Daniel Stone
University Botanical Gardens photo by smugglersuk
Photo: smugglersuk
University Botanical Gardens photo by Karri Ojanen
Photo: Karri Ojanen
University Botanical Gardens photo by Hannah Frank
Photo: Hannah Frank
University Botanical Gardens photo by Sanam Petri
Photo: Sanam Petri
University Botanical Gardens photo by Taneli Ruda
Photo: Taneli Ruda
 

 
Ursula Kaivopuisto


Wonderful views
3 Ehrenströmintie
Helsinki 00140
Finland
+358 9 652 817
http://www.ursula.fi/site.php?...
At the tip of Kaivopuisto park, by the seaside, Café Ursula is one of the best-known and best-loved places in Helsinki. It has a very pleasant, peaceful view out to the sea and the archipelago, including Suomenlinna. The sun shines directly onto the front of the café, and there is a popular terrace during the summer months. This is a very busy place all year round, especially on weekends. The service is very good and they have plenty to offer their customers. Make your order at the counter and you get your drinks, snacks and sweets brought to your table straightaway. To be able to order alcoholic beverages, you must be over 20.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Ursula Kaivopuisto photo by Tuomo Kuusisto
Photo: Tuomo Kuusisto
 

 
Zinnkeller


Home of the Bratwurst
25 Meritullinkatu
Helsinki 00170
Finland
+358 9 135 4148
Restaurant Zinnkeller's kitchen serves central European food. Although there is quite a bit of variety on the menu, the strongest influence seems to be from Germany. A very popular, tasty and fairly inexpensive dish is the famous Bratwurst, which will definitely leave even the hungry diner satisfied. A good starter while waiting for your huge sausage is the Hungarian goulash soup. This is the place to go if you crave some German beer and sausages. The décor of the restaurant is quite tidy, and a pleasant mood is set.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Other Schmapplets in this city related to "Helsinki - Dining & Drinking"
Helsinki
Helsinki - Historical Background
Helsinki - Neighborhood Guide
Helsinki - Where to Stay
Helsinki - Art & Entertainment

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