When you try to imagine the coffee capital of Europe, you would probably think of Italy, Sweden, or perhaps the artisan coffee shops of Paris.
Well, it’s definitely worth adding Finland to this list, for the reason we’re about to tell you. They are the biggest consumers of this wonderful beverage in the world. So we are about to dive into the best cafes in Helsinki!
According to a survey carried out in 2020, by the amount of coffee consumption per capita – it’s the Finns that come out on top.
They grind their way through an impressive twelve kilos of coffee per person, per year, according to stats from the International Coffee Organization (ICO). For Finns, any time is a good time for coffee.
The Finnish capital, Helsinki, is where you can find most of the country’s top cafés and coffee shops, given its colourful coffee culture.
To help you choose the best ones to visit, below is a list of the best coffee shops in Helsinki that you will probably want to come back to again and again. Most of them also offer delicious food or snacks.
The Best Cafés In Helsinki
No Helsinki itinerary is complete without checking out the cool cafes in and around the city. Below are the quirky, cool Helsinki cafe that you simply cannot miss out on. If you are on one of the food tasting tours in Helsinki you may also stop by a cafe or two.
If you have a sweet tooth or cannot resist a bit of cake I highly recommend you don’t miss out on the traditional Runeberg cakes as well as the Laskiaispulla – Scandinavian sweet buns filled with jam and cream, if you happen to be visiting during Lent but can also be found after Christmas too.
Café Torpedo
As its name suggests, this café is literally located on a unique historical torpedo boat, which was one of the thirteen torpedo ships owned by the Finnish Defense Forces. It is a relatively small and fast naval ship designed to carry torpedoes into battle.
The café offers coffee, of course, as well as some light snacks and dishes and other beverages. In summer, they organize barbecues and other events that they publish on Facebook.
Café Aalto
Cafe Aalto was opened in 1986 at the Academic book store which is located in a building designed by Alvar Aalto. The café offers wonderful pastries, cakes and excellent dark espresso. There are also various breakfast options to choose from. It is one peaceful corner in the bookstore, which has earned the hearts of locals.
Café Cargo
Very much a vegetarian/vegan cafe and restaurant in the heart of city centre of Helsinki. A great local business where food is made from scratch. The Cargo café opens a rooftop during spring and summer seasons, where you can read a book, work or simply people-watch as you enjoy your food and coffee under the sun. If you are looking for an amazing vegan restaurant or cafe in Helsinki this is one to check out.
Café Ciao
Cafe Ciao offers a great view across Senate Square from 2nd floor tables. When it’s raining and dark outside, this well-lit cafeteria in the middle of Kämp Gallery is a nice place to stop by for coffee and gingerbread ice-cream. The atmosphere is pleasant and bright.
Café Brooklyn
A beautiful, cozy and friendly Café & bakery in the cool part of Central Helsinki. Apart from quality coffee, they serve fresh and delicious bagels, muffins and other goodies. One of the best deals you’ll find in Helsinki!
Regatta Café
This beautiful little café with only four tables, located near the Sibelius monument and overlooking a jetty, is a real hidden gem. Regatta Cafe building itself is a tiny cabin with red painted walls, which in winter stands out amidst the snowy landscape, creating a fairytale-like setting. The interior décor is very eclectic and the furniture seems to be second-hand, giving it a very homey feel.
You can sit outside and enjoy the view the beautiful view, especially during sunset, next to the fire place and with a blanket if needed. Coffee and cinnamon rolls are really good. You can also choose other options, including sausages and other meals as well as tea and hot chocolate.
Ekberg
In operation since 1862, Café Ekberg keeps old traditions alive. Today, Ekberg operates a café, bakery, pâtisserie, shop, the Ekberg Extra event location and a catering service. Their selection includes both traditional products originating from the early days of our operation and new, seasonally changing delicacies. According to their official website, “Quality, expertise and passion are the fundamental cornerstones of Ekberg’s activity”.
Ihana Kahvila
This cosy container coffee shop is located in the heart of the docks. The loveliest thing about this café is its huge terrace, which has beautiful views out to the sea. Sitting here on a summer’s afternoon with their fresh coffee is perfection. The place also operates as a small shop, selling nice little things for a wide audience, so you can use this as a chance to buy some souvenirs too.
Ihana Kahvila café’s grounds also feature interesting sights and attractions such as an 800 meter long Graffiti fence, Urban Vegetable Garden, Sauna facilities, skateboard spots as well as a walking trial to name a few.
Fazer Café
A very historic place in Helsinki and the icon of the Fazer company, one of the most important food companies in Finland. The founder of the company was Karl Otto Fazer, a Finn who studied baking in Berlin, Paris and Saint Petersburg.
The Fazer café on the Kluuvikatu street in Helsinki was the first patisserie opened with his wife Berta in 1891 and their delicious cakes can still be tasted there.
Lunch well, take a moment to indulge yourself with the freshly baked, handmade pastries, cakes and buns. Sit down and enjoy a cup of our own Fazer Blend coffees and shop high quality confectionery delights in our café shops.
There are various Frazer cafés located throughout the city, so make sure to check which one is nearest to your location.
Kahvila Siili
Kahvila Siili is a sweet, little Helsinki café in the wooden house district of Käpylä. The cafe is named after the hedgehogs in the garden so if you’re lucky you might spot one. They offer delicious sandwiches, cakes and coffee.
There are only few seats inside but many tables out in the garden. After having a coffee and a snack, it is a good idea to spare some time for exploring the bohemian neighbourhood in which the café is located, mostly known for its charming, beautiful wooden buildings from the 1920s, and the unique bohemian and liberal atmosphere created by the residents, many of them artists.
So have you been to Helsinki or checked out any of these cool Helsinki cafes and coffee shops?
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