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The Tampere pub and restaurant scene underwent a metamorphosis in the 1990s - spearheaded by the Irish-style pubs and American-style saloons, a legion of ethnically oriented establishments brought a world of new styles and tastes to a somewhat stagnant and archaic scene. Dublinin Ovet (Doors of Dublin) and O'Connell's are perfect examples of the Irish influence, which in recent years seems to have taken the whole world by surprise, and not only with pubs either. The American influence on the other hand is evident in places like Crazy Horse, and recently, Colorado, the official Native American/Cowboy-bar. With their giddy decorations and John Wayne memorabilia these establishments are in a sense more American than their counterparts across the Atlantic - it is a well-known fact that in order to be successful in celebrating a foreign culture overkill is critical. Finns seem to have taken this to heart; we are no strangers to the American Way, or the Pie, for that matter.

In addition to the Irish and the American, there are the weird, in other words, the establishments that no one knows where they are coming from and what they are trying to say - they, too, are remnants of the 90s change. Café Europa is one of these hybrids that seem to absorb every influence there is and consequently leave the helpless customers to make sense of it on their own, as if to suggest that cerebral gymnastics is a legitimate way to spend an evening on the premises.

Everything Tundra the Sun

So, peculiarity is commonplace, even required. The scene is in a constant flux, as it is everywhere these days, and the most interesting factor in it is that we have no idea about the trend that will hurl us into a delirium next. We must keep on changing with the times, if only to divert a consciousness that we might be wrong. Indeed, we must avert these questions, for the simple reason that weirdness is becoming of us; in fact, it is an achievement in its own right. Places such as Ale Pub Pikajuna are definitely on the dark side of something, although they can hardly be called melting pots of cultural influences. Paapan Kapakka, a live jazz pub, is a melting pot of ideas, and definitely fits the description of an unusual experience. These examples are proof enough that cultural diversity and weirdness are still synonymous among the general population. This may well be the case but as places like Cupola, a shameless epicentre of student dissoluteness, keep on pushing the envelope of strangeness every single night, there is no telling how we will end up defining these terms in a few years time.

The change of the 90s does not suggest that the authentic Finnish atmosphere had died in the process - the majority of pubs and bars in Tampere still retain their roots and remain popular by applying foreign influences. Kehräsaari is maybe the best place to start an evening, if you are looking for something out of the ordinary in connection to pubs. Fall's Cafe and Terrace should please anyone who thinks there is more to pubs than the bluish smoke clouds, dim lit corners and one-track minded middle-aged customers who haven't changed their drinking habits since 1975 (not that returning to the same pint night after night was necessarily a negative thing, it is just that many of us appreciate a little variety from time to time). The same goes for Teerenpeli, a restaurant/bar on the main street, Hämeenkatu: If a little variety suits your whims then this is just what the doctor ordered - the place even has its own whiskey, not to mention beers and ciders.

There are also many what I like to call generic pubs in Tampere. These establishments do not apply any specific ethnicity or theme to create an atmosphere. Wanha Posti, and the newcomer, Wictor, are excellent examples of the bare basics line of thinking in which pubs are pubs and the only thing that counts is how many different sorts of beers the bar can boast - this can become a bit tedious at times, especially for men of strong passions and weak wills. On top of everything else, there are the traditional pubs and bars. Establishments such as Vanha Monttu, Ellun Kana and Kaupungin Valot are a living proof of the vitality of the native scene that couldn't, or wouldn't, change even if its life depended on it - which is only so much the better. All three are perfect choices for those who want to know where it all started in Tampere.

Finnish your Meal

The restaurant business probably gained the most from the invasion in the 90s. While Finns have long traditions in everything connected to alcohol - for better or worse - our traditions in the field of culinary expertise have never quite reached the same popularity. We do have our own traditions and specialities, but aside from a few such as Carelian roast or lihapullat (meat balls), we tend to eat most of them only on special occasions and dates, like for example on Christmas, Easter and May Day. Due to this, we have applied other cultures' cuisines and traditions to fit our every day eating habits. Italian-style cooking, in the form of pizzas and different kinds of pasta, is hardly a mystery to anyone living in this country. Small pizzerias can be found almost anywhere in Tampere - what comes to Italian-style restaurants, Rosso Koskipuisto is definitely worth a visit. Also, places like Natalie, a Slavonic-style restaurant, conveniently in close proximity to the Lenin Museum, Harald, a curious Viking restaurant and Memphis, an American a la carte bar, have proven their suitability to prevailing conditions.

Today, restaurants like China Town, or Thai Na Khon can hardly be considered as curiosities but as a natural continuum for different cultures and tastes getting ever closer to one another. Still, there are restaurants in Tampere that offer typical local specialities. One of these is Tillikka, a restaurant/bar that has become a landmark for its 90 years of existence - aside from dining, drinking has always been a popular pastime here. Also, the brewery restaurant/pub Plevna in the old Finlayson building will satisfy those curious about local, as well as international, cuisine.

However for those who are looking for something different - a cosy, rosy atmosphere maybe, with delicious smells filling the air, there is one place to recommend: Vohvelikahvila (Waffle Cafe). This place is sure to evoke some sweet childhood memories. And those brave or foolhardy enough should definitely try the traditional delicacy, mustamakkara (black sausage), only available fresh in Tampere.

While the variety may not reach the level of bigger cities, finding a place to satisfy your culinary cravings shouldn't pose problems in Tampere. When it comes to drinking however, the city is up there with the best of them - it is safe to say that it is next to impossible to fancy a drink or an atmosphere and not be able to find it in this city. In summary, things are looking up: Every year the population grows - students, especially, seem to find the atmosphere agreeable, and that is usually a sign of something happening. All things considered, it is a beginning of an interesting millennium.







Copyright 1999-2005 Wcities, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Contact Wcities

Ale Pub Pikajuna


Pub with personality
Rautatienkatu 25
Tampere 33100
Finland
+358 3 214 4108
Rumour has it that this place looks like an army recruitment centre; however, there are also those who swear it bears an eerie likeness to a wartime bunker, right down to the machine guns (used purely as decorations). Be that as it may, the place is bursting with personality - this is the perfect place to discover a side of Tampere not found on guided tours. Ale Pub Pikajuna is extremely easy to find - it is located in one of the most visible landmarks in Tampere, the railway station. A good choice for all those who want to stretch and have a pint before the next train.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Colorado


Western type of thing
Koskikeskus
Tampere 33100
Finland
+358 3 213 4585
A western bar is a good description for Colorado-presumably any place that has a picture of John Wayne on its wall could be described as such. Dim lighting is characteristic of these saloons too and cart wheels. It seems these western bars are not a dying breed after all; in the early 90s they were all over the place, but then came the Irish and the British-style pubs to put them out of their misery. Now the tables are turning again; Colorado may be the vanguard of a new onslaught of saloons.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Crazy Horse


American-style saloon
Kirkkokatu 10
Tampere 33200
Finland
+358 3 222 1810
http://www.hulluhevonen.com/
Regardless of its somewhat politically incorrect name, Crazy Horse is quite an interesting place, not least because it has at least twice the capacity of most similar clubs. This is an important point especially during the winter, when queuing can become something of a cold way of spending your time. Although popular, the queues are much shorter here. Aside from its practical merits, Crazy Horse is interesting as a bar with all the potential of a club. The dance floor is certainly big enough. The place is located about 200m south of the central bus terminal (there are only two streets that go down from the bus station and Kirkkokatu is the one that runs closest to Tammerkoski). The minimum age for admission is 21, and the bar is fully licensed. Something in this place calls for the term saloon. The walls are covered with American license plates, which perfectly suit the general atmosphere.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Dublinin Ovet


Irish-style pub
Kauppakatu 16
Tampere 33210
Finland
+358 3 222 5752
The name implies an Irish connection, which may or may not seem obvious to those visiting the place—but there is more to this place than meets the eye. Essentially, Doors of Dublin is a hybrid, something in between a Finnish and an Irish pub. This type of mixing has become increasingly popular over recent years in Tampere, this particular pub being one of the first to appear on the scene. The clientele is on average over thirty; maybe one reasons why the atmosphere is so relaxed. Many people just drop in to have a pint while reading the daily papers. Aside from a good selection of beers, ciders and spirits, this establishment is renowned for its pub quizzes. Pool and backgammon are also available. This fully licensed pub is located on the edge of Hämeenpuisto park, facing the City Library, Metso. The minimum age for admission is 18 Sunday-Thursday; 20 Friday-Saturday.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Ellun Kana


Small pub with an enigmatic name
Sumeliuksenkatu 16
Tampere 33100
Finland
+358 3 3155 5350
If you are looking for an inexpensive, fully licensed, good-quality pub in Tampere, Ellun Kana is a good choice. The draught beer is cheaper here than in most places. Ellun Kana is a small, cozy pub with an enigmatic name Ellie's Chicken), which has found its way to many expressions although no one knows what it means or where it comes from. The only problem with this curious establishment is the location; not far from the railway station, it is still hard to find, even for locals. If you find Hotel Villa (500m southeast of the railway station), you should also come across Ellun Kana, in the same building.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Europa


Bar with sofas
Aleksanterinkatu 29 A
Tampere 33100
Finland
+358 3 223 5526
A few years ago when Café Europa first opened, many people must have wondered about the sofas - somehow it was not proper to have a sofa in a bar in Tampere. But they have come a long way since then, and now no one seems even to notice this detail. Still, Café Europa's décor stands out from the rest. For several reasons, it is hard to categorise this place: at street level, you will find a weird hybrid of a living room and a bar - it is rather like walking to a set of Casablanca. On the first floor, the Attic disco offers theme nights ranging from soul to break beats. Café Europa, especially the Attic, is popular among the trendy, knowledgeable and young. But regardless of your age or disposition, the street level bar/restaurant is definitely worth checking out.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Europa photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Fall's Café & Terrace


Classy specimen on the banks of Tammerkoski
Kehräsaari
Tampere 33200
Finland
+358 3 223 0061
Located on idyllic Kehräsaari, Fall's Café and Terrace is an aesthete's dream; for both the décor and the professional staff. But the relaxed, informal atmosphere may come as a bit of a surprise. You're even welcome to play the piano. The establishment is divided into a street-level bar, a German-style Bierkeller and a terrace on the bank of Tammerkoski. The wine cellar includes wines imported from their own vineyard in Hungary.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Fall's Café & Terrace photo by Mark van Gils
Photo: Mark van Gils
 

 
Kaupungin Valot


They call it the office
Rautatienkatu 16
Tampere 33100
Finland
+358 3 2446 2221
A sign above the bar that says Kaupungin Valot (City Lights) has the widest selection of whiskeys in Tampere. Be that as it may, the selection is indeed impressive. Kaupungin Valot is perhaps one of the best, if not the best place to catch the authentic Finnish pub scene in Tampere. The establishment has a long history and it has retained its original atmosphere, regardless of name changes. This is probably why Kaupungin Valot has many regulars, among them Juice Leskinen, a popular Finnish musician. The photographs of Finnish rock legends, lined neatly on the walls, tell a lot about the history of this place. A typical night consists of lively conversation and a constant music feed from the jukebox, interrupted only by the mechanical tracking sounds. Kaupungin Valot can be found right across the street from the railway station, by Scandic Hotel Tampere. The minimum age for admission is 20 EUR, as Kaupungin Valot is fully licensed.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Lenin Museum


History of an individual
Hämeenpuisto 28
Tampere 33200
Finland
+358 3 276 8100
http://www.tampere.fi/culture/...
The Lenin Museum is a unique institution in the post-Cold War world. Owned by the Finland Russia Society, the museum contains two permanent displays, one of which describes and depicts Lenin's life, and the other his strong association with Finland. The museum began operating in 1946, but its significance and functions have been changing ever since, as a result of the junctures in world politics. There is also a shop with books and souvenirs. Admission fees are EUR4 for adults and EUR2 for children and students.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Lenin Museum photo by Bernard Langham
Photo: Bernard Langham
Lenin Museum photo by kany1120@gmail.com
Photo: kany1120@gmail.com
Lenin Museum photo by Alex T.
Photo: Alex T.
Lenin Museum photo by Tracy Fullerton
Photo: Tracy Fullerton
Lenin Museum photo by Tarnie
Photo: Tarnie
Lenin Museum photo by mapsadaisical
Photo: mapsadaisical
Lenin Museum photo by emsterc
Photo: emsterc
Lenin Museum photo by Lucy Fife
Photo: Lucy Fife
Lenin Museum photo by Martin Betz
Photo: Martin Betz
 

 
Main Street


The main route of movement and life in Tampere
Hämeenkatu
Tampere 33100
Finland
Hämeenkatu is the main street in Tampere. All the largest department stores, banks, insurance companies and other major businesses can be found along it. Hämeenkatu is the only cobble-stoned street in Tampere, and it is going to be kept that way. The street was first shown on a map in 1779, but it had a different name then. In the beginning of the nineteenth century Tampere was a city of craftsmen, and rows of low wooden houses and workshops lined the main street. The growth of industry in Tampere led to better standards of living, and the first stone buildings were erected at the end of the century. It was during this time that the western side of Hämeenkatu street got its art nouveau look. Eleven of the sixteen plots between the central square and Hämeenpuisto park were re-built during 1890s, and most of these buildings still stand today. On the other side of the Hämeensilta bridge the oldest buildings represent the Neo-Renaissance style. The new Hämeensilta with its wonderful hunter statues (by sculptor Wäinö Aaltonen) was built in 1929. The bridge is one of the best-known symbols of Tampere these days. Hämeenkatu is the centre-point of life in Tampere.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Main Street photo by John Collier
Photo: John Collier
Main Street photo by Kristina Martino
Photo: Kristina Martino
Main Street photo by laura.77
Photo: laura.77
 

 
Memphis East


Modern and urban
Hämeenkatu 3
Tampere 33100
Finland
+358 3 214 3911
http://www.ravintola-memphis.net/
Memphis restaurants are always located in the city centre. Memphis East makes no exception, as it stands right next to the railway station, opposite the Stockmann department store. Memphis is decorated in casual American style. Young and youthful adults are typical customers of the restaurant, as well as families with children. The menu offers food in all-American style. Soups, salads, hamburgers and chicken are all well represented on the menu. Steaks and pasta complete the selection. Portions for children are also available. Fully licensed.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Memphis East photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Natalie


Slavic flavors
Hallituskatu 19
Tampere 33200
Finland
+358 3 223 2040
http://www.ravintolapikkusisko...
Natalie is a rather small restaurant kept in dark tones. The atmosphere is very nice and cozy but also highly suggestive of Eastern European traditions. The Slavic cuisine favors strong herbs, not forgetting the ever-present vodka. One of the specialties is herring tartar laced with vodka, a definite success for fans of potent appetizers. Natalie is located in the center, near the prominent TTT Theater. As the restaurant is only a one-minute walk away, it is the perfect place to continue the evening after a play.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
O'Connell's Irish Bar


Original Irish pub
Rautatienkatu 24
Tampere 33100
Finland
+358 3 222 7032
http://www.oconnells.fi/
Daniel O'Connell's is the place to go if you are looking for an original Irish pub in Tampere. It boasts an impressive selection of Irish whiskeys and beers, and offers an international atmosphere that at least the students from the nearby university find to their liking. This is unsurprising, as the atmosphere seems to be the reason why so many different people come here to unwind after a day's work. O'Connell's décor is typical Irish; it looks almost as if they had dismantled a pub in Dublin and put it back together again in Tampere... The pub is in close proximity to the railway station (about 200 metres), which is a definite bonus for those who want to have a pint while waiting for their train. Also, if you want to watch UEFA Champions' League matches and English premiership games, you might want to come here. O'Connell's is fully licensed, and the minimum age for admission is 20.

Review © 2007, Wcities
O'Connell's Irish Bar photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Paapan Kapakka


Jazz, all day, every day
Koskikatu 9
Tampere 33100
Finland
+358 3 211 0037
Papa's Place, as the name could loosely be translated, shows an allegiance to live jazz and roots music strange to the true-blue Finnish pub. In the evening, the place comes alive, but there's not much room to roam about in here, especially on the upstairs balcony. But the people who frequent the pub seem to like it that way. If you like live music, fairly cheap lager, tight corners and lots of altruists, this is the place for you. The dark décor suits the music perfectly.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Paapan Kapakka photo by pispala_msh
Photo: pispala_msh
Paapan Kapakka photo by Lenny P.
Photo: Lenny P.
 

 
Plevna Brewery Pub


Drinks straight out of the distillery
Itäinenkatu 8
Tampere 33210
Finland
+358 3 260 1200
Plevna is an authentic brewery pub and restaurant. A few other places in town also have their own products but Plevna is as much a brewery as it is a pub. Anyone interested in such an atmosphere should definitely visit. Plevna has a selection of about 50 beers, and a wide variety of spirits, including products from its own distillery. Aside from drinks, you can also eat here. The specialities are not exactly for people who count calories, though. The easiest route here is through the big market square in the middle of the city, Keskustori. When you reach the north end, Plevna is right across the street, behind the big iron gate.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Plevna Brewery Pub photo by skulkata
Photo: skulkata
 

 
Spindle Island


Rich in atmosphere and known for quality
Kehräsaari
Tampere 33100
Finland
The name Kehräsaari (Spindle Island) comes from the wool-spinning factory whose buildings this shopping and business centre now occupies. The oldest part of Kehräsaari was built in 1897. Kehräsaari is an extremely charming place to visit. For instance, Aarikka Joulupuu, Tampereen Kulta- ja Jalokivipaja and Savipaja Päivi Väätäinen attract visitors to buy unique and often handmade gifts. Also, maritime restaurant Hook, restaurant Sylvester, pub and wine bar Fall's Café and cinema Niagara operate in Kehräsaari. A pedestrian brigde crosses the Tammerkoski rapids from Kehräsaari to the eastern side of Tampere.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Spindle Island photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Teerenpeli


Meeting place
Hämeenkatu 25
Tampere 33200
Finland
+358 3 223 4100
http://www.teerenpeli.com/tamp...
Teerenpeli is a very curious establishment and definitely worth visiting. The place even has its own malt whiskey. This would do it for many already but the place boasts its own beers and ciders too. To top it all off, Teerenpeli seems like an excellent place to get together with friends. Teerenpeli is in the centre, on main street Hämeenkatu, about half a kilometre west of the central bus stop. The minimum age is 22.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Teerenpeli photo by bolemongo
Photo: bolemongo
Teerenpeli photo by Miia Ranta
Photo: Miia Ranta
 

 
Thai Na Khon


Genuine Thai
Hämeenkatu 29
Tampere 33200
Finland
+358 3 212 1778
Thai Na Khon is a genuine and high quality Thai restaurant in Tampere. There is also a cosy bar in conjunction with the main restaurant. The restaurant consists of 60 seats only. It is an intimate and atmospheric place in which to enjoy the rich oriental food culture. Restaurant Thai Na Khon is the only Thai in the Tampere region. The cuisine represents Thai traditions at their best. Dishes are composed of exotic vegetables and fruit not necessarily even heard of at these latitudes. Thai Na Khon is located on Hämeenkatu in the Tampere city centre, opposite the famous Kinopalatsi building. Fully licensed.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Vanha Monttu


Below ground atmosphere
Hämeenkatu 17
Tampere 33200
Finland
+358 3 212 6692
The name, translated verbatim, is simply The Old Hole. The reason for this strange name is most likely the fact that the pub is completely below street level. If you are looking for a typical Tampere pub, Monttu is a good choice. For one thing, it is cheaper than most places. But the atmosphere here is also very generous and easy-going, something many pubs can only aspire to. Monttu is in the heart of Tampere, only about 50 metres west of the central bus stop. Although below ground, the atmosphere is far from cold. Vanha Monttu is fully licensed.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Viikinkiravintola Harald


Restaurant in Hagar the Horrible fashion
Hämeenkatu 23
Tampere 33200
Finland
+358 3 213 8380
http://www.ravintolaharald.com/
Vikingrestaurant Harald operates in accordance with Viking Hagar's (called Harald, in Finnish) principles, endorsing good food, good drink and good company. The restaurant stands in a central location by Hämeenkatu, the main street of Tampere and close to the Central Square. The menu is versatile and includes soups and appetisers, main dishes with meat and fish, snacks and desserts. Harald is decorated in Viking style, wood being the main material. It is particularly suitable for more informal occasions. There is traditional restaurant food on the menu, but the dishes are all named after Harald, the good Viking, and his society. Varangian Wild Boar is at the more expensive end of the menu. Fully licensed. Lunch is served every weekday 11a-2p.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Viikinkiravintola Harald photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Vohvelikahvila


Delicious aroma of fresh waffles
Ojakatu 2
Tampere 33100
Finland
+358 3 214 4225
http://www.vohvelikahvila.com/
It is easy to fall in love with the Waffle Café at a first glance, when you see the cheerful yellow stone house and its extremely cosy interior. The building is the smallest stone house in Tampere, and it only contains one room and the kitchen. The small size can be one reason for the busy atmosphere: the café is an extremely popular place. There are many kinds of delicious homemade waffles (both sweet and savoury) for sale. You can also have chocolate coffee, cappuccino, hot chocolate, or a pot of tea here. The café is very close to the Tampere Cathedral. There is a tradition in Finland to go and sing Christmas carols at the church before Christmas, and many people who come out of the Cathedral stop by the café for a waffle and a cup of hot mulled wine afterwards. Savoury waffles come, for example, with ham, mushroom, onion, smoked fish, taco or vegetable topping. Special drinks include cardamom coffee.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Vohvelikahvila photo by pkauranen
Photo: pkauranen
Vohvelikahvila photo by Niilo Alfthan
Photo: Niilo Alfthan
 

 
Wanha Posti


Variety in beers
Hämeenkatu 13 A
Tampere 33100
Finland
+358 3 223 3007
http://www.wanhaposti.fi/
Wanha Posti can be found upstairs at Henry's Pub, and offers a somewhat more old-fashioned, British-style atmosphere. However, this does not mean that you couldn't wander in wearing jeans. Indeed, people seem to have no reservations about this, which is so much the better. This beer restaurant boasts a selection of 90 different kinds of beer, plus its own small brewery. So it is not a surprise that this is a very popular place, even on weeknights. The pub is open 365 days year, so you can count on it even when everything else is closed. Wanha Posti is fully licensed, and the minimum age for admission is 22. Wanha is located about a half a kilometre from the railway station, down Hämeenkatu, on the left side.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Wanha Posti photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
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