The 10 Best Restaurants of Tallinn

Welcome to Tallinn, the charming and picturesque capital city of Estonia. Known for its historic Old Town, Tallinn has become a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. But Tallinn is not only about history, it’s also a city with a lively nightlife and a thriving culinary scene.

Tallinn’s restaurant culture has been growing rapidly in recent years, with new restaurants opening up all the time. In this blog post, we’ll be counting down the 10 best restaurants in Tallinn, each offering its own unique dining experience.

1. Rataskaevu 16

This atmospheric restaurant in the heart of the Old Town offers a cosy yet sophisticated dining experience. The menu focuses on traditional Estonian cuisine with a modern twist, using fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. With its intimate ambiance and exceptional service, Rataskaevu 16 is a must-visit for any foodie.

2. NOA Restoran

Situated on the shores of the Gulf of Finland, NOA Restoran offers breathtaking views of the sea and the city skyline. The menu features innovative and inventive dishes, blending classic French and Scandinavian cuisine with Estonian flavours. The elegant decor and exquisite food make NOA Restoran a truly unforgettable dining experience.

3. Tchaikovsky

Located in the opulent surroundings of the Telegraaf Hotel, Tchaikovsky is a Russian-inspired restaurant with a glamorous and sophisticated atmosphere. The menu features traditional Russian dishes, executed with precision and flair, and accompanied by an extensive wine list. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.

4. Salt

Salt is a stylish and contemporary restaurant in the trendy Rotermann district, with a focus on organic and locally-sourced ingredients. The menu changes according to the season, offering a range of dishes from light salads to hearty meat dishes. The sleek and modern interior design complements the food perfectly.

5. Ö

This minimalist restaurant in the heart of the Old Town offers a unique and innovative dining experience. The chefs at Ö work with nature and the changing seasons, creating dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious. The simplicity of the decor allows the food to take centre stage.

6. Leib Resto ja Aed

Leib Resto ja Aed is a cosy and rustic restaurant in the historic Kalamaja district, serving hearty and flavourful dishes inspired by Estonian cuisine. The menu focuses on seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients, and the restaurant even has its own vegetable garden. Don’t miss the homemade bread, which is baked fresh every day.

7. F-Hoone

If you’re looking for a casual and laid-back dining experience, F-Hoone is the place to go. Housed in a converted industrial building in the trendy Kalamaja district, F-Hoone offers a range of tasty and affordable dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. The outdoor terrace is perfect for a sunny day.

8. R14

R14 is a modern and stylish restaurant located in the heart of the Rotermann district. The menu focuses on Scandinavian cuisine with a Baltic twist, using high-quality and seasonal ingredients. The sleek and contemporary decor makes R14 a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

9. V Vegan Restoran

If you’re looking for a vegan dining option, V Vegan Restoran is the place to go. The menu features creative and innovative dishes made entirely from plant-based ingredients, using organic and locally-sourced produce. The restaurant’s cosy and welcoming atmosphere makes it a popular spot for vegans and non-vegans alike.

10. Must Puudel

Must Puudel is a quirky and eclectic restaurant located in the heart of the Old Town. The menu features a range of dishes from around the world, with a particularly strong focus on vegetarian and vegan options. The atmosphere is laid-back and informal, making it a popular spot for a casual lunch or dinner.

So there you have it, the 10 best restaurants in Tallinn. Whether you’re looking for traditional Estonian cuisine or innovative modern dishes, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and exciting city.

From the atmospheric Rataskaevu 16 to the stylish and contemporary R14, each of these restaurants offers its own unique dining experience. So next time you’re in Tallinn, make sure to check out some of these amazing dining options.

An Insider’s Guide to Tallinn: Local Gems, Cuisine, and Experiences

Tallinn is a breathtakingly beautiful city with cobbled streets and a rich history. Beyond the main tourist spots, there are plenty of hidden gems and cultural experiences that only locals know about. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a unique experience, Tallinn has a lot to offer. Here are some of our favorite spots and experiences in the city:

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

While the Old Town and Kadriorg Park are well worth a visit, there are many other spots in Tallinn that are off the beaten path. For example, a walk along the city’s coastal promenade takes you past several hidden beaches. The Seaplane Harbor Museum, located in a historic seaplane hangar, is a fascinating place to learn about Estonia’s maritime history.

If you’re a fan of art, visit Kalamaja, a hip neighborhood with street art and murals adorning its buildings. Here you can also find the Telliskivi Creative City, a former industrial complex turned creative hub filled with boutique shops and cafes.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine and Culture

Estonian cuisine has a rich tradition of food preservation and many unique local ingredients, such as wild berries, mushrooms, and game meat. One of our favorite restaurants in Tallinn is the rustic Leib Resto Ja Aed, which serves modern Estonian cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.

For a taste of Tallinn’s history, visit Olde Hansa, a medieval-themed restaurant where you can dine by candlelight while waiters in period costume serve up traditional dishes like elk meatballs and black bread.

Cultural Experiences: Celebrations and Traditions

Tallinn is a city that loves to celebrate, with a year-round calendar of festivals and events. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy the Medieval Days festival, where the city’s Old Town is transformed into a medieval market with jousting tournaments and street performances.

In November, Tallinn hosts the Black Nights Film Festival, one of the most important film festivals in Northern Europe. The festival screens a diverse range of films from around the world, and several Tallinn cinemas offer retro screenings of old classics.

Local History: Captivating Stories

Tallinn has a rich and varied history, from its medieval roots as a Hanseatic trading hub to its time as part of the Soviet Union. For a glimpse into the city’s past, visit the KGB Museum in the Hotel Viru, where a former KGB surveillance room has been preserved.

Another must-see attraction is the Town Hall Pharmacy, one of the oldest continuously operating pharmacies in Europe, which has been serving customers since the early 15th century. The pharmacy also has a museum that displays old medical equipment and remedies.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

For those looking for a more unique experience in Tallinn, try a sauna session with a local guide who can explain the importance of the ritual in Estonian culture. Or, visit the Patarei Prison, a former Soviet prison that is now open to the public and offers tours led by former prisoners.

For a taste of Tallinn nightlife, check out the Telliskivi Creative City, which has several bars and live music venues. Club Studio is a local favorite, with a dance floor that fills up on weekends.

Overall, Tallinn has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for local cuisine, unique cultural experiences, or just a relaxing stroll through the city’s picturesque streets. With this insider’s guide, we hope you’ll be able to discover some of the city’s hidden gems and create unforgettable memories during your visit.