The 10 Best Restaurants In Kallio Helsinki

Historically known as Helsinki’s workers’ district, Kallio is now one of the city’s hippest neighborhoods with plenty of innovative restaurants partly thanks to an influx of students and artists fleeing high rents in the city center. Check out our list for top 10 restaurants to try while you’re here.

1. Cella

Restaurant, European, Pub Grub

Cella could easily be mistaken for a local watering hole, but it is a step above; offering traditional Finnish comfort in a cozy relaxed atmosphere. If you are looking for an insight into Finnish pub food culture, Cella should be on your to-do list. Its interior of dark leather seating is the perfect place to seek refuge from the cold winter winds.

2. Fafa’s

Bar, Restaurant, Wine Bar, Fast Food, Vegetarian, Middle Eastern, Pub Grub

Whether you’re a vegetarian or just appreciate a tasty hummus and falafel combination, you should not miss Fafa’s in Kallio. True to the working-class history of the Kallio neighborhood, this Moroccan-style restaurant on Vilhonvuorenkatu is modest in looks but big in heart. Once you step through their doors you are welcomed with a nice clean modern restaurant. Everything is made on the spot and the owners claim to offer the best falafel in Helsinki. Be prepared to wait in line as this is one of the most popular food spots in the area.

3. Kombo Winebar & Kitchen

Restaurant, Wine, Pub Grub, European, Spanish

Tapas may be difficult to find in the Finnish capital, but thankfully Kallio is home to Kombo Winebar and Kitchen. Over an extensive wine-list, visitors can enjoy food and wine pairings here in an informal setting. The restaurant also hosts occasional wine tastings and other events.

4. Kuja

Bar, Bistro, Restaurant, European, American, Pub Grub

Kuja means ‘alley’ in Finnish and the word sums up this small, tucked away restaurant well, with its a welcoming atmosphere, huge burgers and selection of beers on tap. The food is a mixture of French and American bistro cuisine served in a contemporary minimalist interior. The owners have tried to maintain the small alley feel and manage to pull it off with accents such as Caravaggio Pendant lamps.

5. Sandro

Restaurant, Middle Eastern, African

A popular restaurant, Sandro is widely considered to have the best Moroccan food and best brunch in Helsinki. But there is more to this restaurant than just the food. Sandro also hosts bands and DJs most nights of the week. On weekends the restaurant swaps the a la carte menu for a buffet served on beautiful ethnic tableware instead of the usual plates.

6. Sävel

Bar, Bistro, Restaurant, Pub Grub, European, Vegetarian

Sävel is a quintessential traditional Finnish bistro. This laid back spot is decorated with retro wallpaper and portraits of local and international singers. A restaurant and bar, Sävel is an ideal place for catching up with friends and family. The relaxed atmosphere is transferred over to the menu, which is filled with solid Finnish classics and remarkably tasty burgers that complement the beers well.

7. Silvoplee

Cafe, Restaurant, Healthy, Vegan, Vegetarian, European

Silvoplee is a must visit foodie destination in Helsinki for vegetarians, vegans and anyone interested in a healthy meal. The restaurant is minimalist and food is served in a buffet, with a large selection of both sweet and savory dishes catered towards raw, vegan and vegetarian diets. The restaurant also hosts biweekly events such as lectures on mindfulness and healthy eating.

8. Soul Kitchen

Diner, Restaurant, European

For an evening of food and jazz, head to Soul Kitchen in Kallio. This beautiful and rather funky restaurant serves American diner-style dishes and hosts live music performances in the evenings. Though the dishes are Amercian, they all have a Finnish touch to them, and are served in a soothing red interior decorated with paintings.

9. Tavern

Restaurant, Pub Grub

Toveri means ‘comrade’ in Finnish and the name of the restaurant accurately describes how welcome visitors feel at this cozy Kallio establishment. Whether you are after some food or just a cold beer Toveri is a perfect place to relax in a convivial yet cosmopolitan atmosphere with friendly staff.

Whisky

Set in a historic boat, dining at Wäiski certainly makes for a unique experience. This beautiful turn of the century steamship was remodeled in 2001 to include an outdoor terrace and a spacious indoor dining and bar area. Wäiski’s interior elements were designed to remain faithful to maritime fashion with an added dose of Finnish dining aesthetic.
11 Hakaniemenranta, 00530, Helsinki, Finland, +358 10 420 360

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