Restaurant Savotta

WOW - what a wonderful experience. I just arrived in Helsinki from Tallinn having booked nothing and just going with the flow. I naturally walked to the main Cathedral square and was feeling hungry from breakfast 8 hours before. I saw a traditional Finnish restaurant on the square that looked welcoming and traditional. I asked for a table for one, but understandably they were fully booked on a Friday evening - however the lovely lady at the front squeezed me in for an hour and half slot. WELL, all the staff were approachable, friendly and warm. The atmosphere was original and special and the food was OUT OF THIS WORLD (I had a salmon soup with a variety of local bread, a reindeer roast and delicious rhubarb crumble for dessert). You have to come here if you're visiting Helsinki/Finland. Book in advance to ensure that you won't miss out, I think I was incredibly lucky, but very grateful for the opportunity. Savotta is a MUST!

A brilliant Finnish restaurant. The food was excellent and tasty. Although the food was on the more pricy side, the quality and rarer meat (such as reindeer and bear) were worth the money. The service was friendly and the atmosphere cosy. Traditional older Finnish popular songs were a nice touch. I would recommend the place for tourists that want good quality Finnish dishes, as well as local folk for a nice restaurant experience.

Great food. Traditional Finnish cuisine. Had the reindeer and fish. Fast delivery and great service despite packed reastaurant. A little steep in price but well worth it. Table reservation needed! Way too popular and crowded to get a table without reservation. Reserve minimum 2 days ahead to be sure, 3 days ahead for weekends.

Wanted to treat myself to one “traditional” meal in Helsinki and this was it! I got the reindeer roast— I had to. It was very tasty. The meat was tender and perfectly cooked. It really felt like you were in a family restaurant with the decor and kindness of the staff. The portions were perfect. I highly recommend making a reservation due to the location and popularity of this restaurant!

My mother is from Finland and I've been 10 times. If you are looking to cap your trip off with a real taste of Finland with an atmosphere that is real Finish, this is the place. Nice looking place, staff that are dressed traditionally and the food is excellent as authentic as it could be.