Where Can I Find the Best Restaurants in Tallinn?

Tallinn is a historic city located on the coast of the Baltic Sea and is the capital of Estonia. Tallinn is a great destination to explore, with activities that cover a wide range of interests – from sightseeing to shopping. It also houses one of the best restaurant scenes in Scandinavia.Whether you’re looking for an elegant seafood dinner, farm-to-table Cheff creations or traditional Estonian cuisine, Tallinn is the place to find great eateries for travellers and locals alike. In this article, we’ll explore the best restaurants in Tallinn, with a special focus on the top choices for local gourmands and international visitors.

Best Overall Restaurants in Tallinn

If you’re looking for the top choices for foodies and experienced chefs alike, start with these recommended destinations:

• Noa, which was named 2018’s Restaurant of the Year by Estonian broadcaster ERR and which has risen to fame as one of Tallinn’s top eateries.
• Bliss, located in old town Tallinn and the 2018 winner of Estonia’s National Cooking Championship.
• F-Hoone, a converted cow shed with a strong focus on local Estonian cuisine.
• Saint Catherine, a unique café with tasty food and memorable events.
• People Cru, where you can enjoy your meal while cruising the bay.

Estonian Cuisine Restaurants

Estonian cuisine has a long and intriguing history, having been influenced by the country’s neighbours Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Germany. It emphasizes fresh ingredients such as root vegetables, wild mushrooms, berries, game, fish and dairy products, often augmented with traditional spices like caraway and dill. If you’re keen to explore Estonian cuisine during your visit to Tallinn, here are some recommended restaurants:

• Roots, which serves traditional Estonian dishes with an artistic twist.
• Veski, which is located in a centuries-old windmill.
• Kompressor, where you can try classic dishes such as blood sausage and pickled cucumbers.
• Moose, which offers game platters complete with vintage cognac.

Specialty Restaurants

Tallinn is home to plenty of specialty restaurants, ranging from casual pubs to romantic rooftops. Here are some special spots for great food and atmosphere:

Seafood Specialists

When visiting Tallinn, make sure you enjoy some seafood. Here are some excellent choices for seafood lovers:

• Yacht Club 101, an upscale restaurant housed inside an 18th-century building with an outdoor terrace looking out onto the sea.
• Hella, positioned right on the waterfront with excellent Mediterranean seafood.
• MeseSabaa, which features a fantastic selection of oysters and seafood dishes.
• Stone Seaside, a great choice for sustainable seafood prepared to perfection.

Unique Night Out Spots

Here are some fun places to try something out of the ordinary during your visit:

• Katusekohvik 27, located on a rooftop terrace atop a 60 year old building – great for a special occasion.
• The Bohemian Bar & Bar, a fun bar known for its wild parties and live music.
• Hamboogermeister’s, a burger restaurant and bar serving up tasty comfort food.
• Köörukoha, which offers up traditional Estonian foods like bloody sausages and pickled cucumbers accompanied by cold beer.

Tallinn is bursting with great restaurant options, regardless of your taste or budget. Whether you’re looking for classic Estonian fare, fresh seafood or modern fusion menu – chances are you’ll find it in Tallinn!

Insider’s Guide to Exploring Tallinn’s Best Restaurants

Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia, is often considered one of the most charming destinations in Europe due to its medieval old town, vibrant nightlife, and an ever-growing culinary scene. This city is filled with cozy sandstone houses, beautiful parks, and a lot of cultural experiences that make it extremely popular among tourists. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore some of the best restaurants to visit when exploring Tallinn, as well as some of the top attractions and activities to do while in the city.

Top Attractions and Activities in Tallinn

Before diving into the culinary scene, it’s important to learn more about Tallinn and all that this city has to offer. Here are some of the top attractions and activities to add to your itinerary:

1. Tallinn Old Town – A UNESCO World Heritage site, Tallinn’s Old Town is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, charming squares, and breathtaking views. You can easily spend an entire day exploring the narrow alleys, art galleries, and museums such as the Kumu Art Museum and Estonian History Museum.

2. Toompea Hill – Located at the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town, Toompea Hill is home to some of the most iconic buildings in the city, such as the Estonian Parliament and Tall Hermann Tower, where you can get a panoramic view of the city.

3. Kadriorg Palace and Park – Another must-visit attraction in Tallinn is the Kadriorg Palace and Park. This grand palace is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and is home to the Kumu Art Museum and the Estonian president’s office. You can also visit the Swan Pond and Japanese Garden within the park.

Best Restaurants in Tallinn

Now that we’ve covered some of the top attractions in Tallinn, let’s move on to the exciting culinary scene. With world-class chefs offering everything from local Estonian cuisine to international dishes, Tallinn’s restaurant scene has something for everyone.

1. NOA Chef’s Hall – A Michelin-starred restaurant located next to the Tallinn Bay, NOA Chef’s Hall is known for its creative Nordic-inspired cuisine. With breathtaking views of the sea, NOA Chef’s Hall offers an unforgettable dining experience.

2. Rataskaevu16 – Located in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town, Rataskaevu16 is a cozy restaurant offering traditional Estonian cuisine. From black bread to elk soup, the dishes are simple yet delicious and are made with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients.

3. Kaerajaan – A must-visit for vegetarian and vegan travelers, Kaerajaan is a hip and modern restaurant serving up plant-based dishes from around the world. From jackfruit burgers to vegan seitan schnitzels, Kaerajaan offers a refreshing experience for all.

Cultural Experiences in Tallinn

The Estonian capital is home to several unique cultural experiences that are worth exploring. Here are a few to add to your itinerary:

1. Estonian Traditional Sauna – Sauna culture in Estonia dates back to thousands of years ago, and it’s still a vital component of modern-day Estonian life. Visit one of Tallinn’s traditional saunas, such as the historic Kalma Sauna or the modern Allas Sea Pool, for a truly authentic experience.

2. KGB Museum – Take a trip back in time and visit the KGB Museum, located in the Viru Hotel. You’ll learn about the Soviet-era history and the KGB’s surveillance operations in Tallinn.

3. EKKM Museum – The EKKM Museum is a unique contemporary art museum that’s constantly changing its exhibits, making it a must-visit for art lovers.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those looking to venture off the beaten path, here are a few suggestions:

1. Patarei Prison – This abandoned, Soviet-era prison is a haunting reminder of Estonia’s troubled past. Take a tour of the prison to learn more about the harsh conditions and daily life of the prisoners.

2. Telliskivi Creative City – This former industrial area has been transformed into a hub for creatives. Explore the street art, cafes, and shops for a unique and artistic experience.

3. Stroomi Beach – Located a short distance from the city center, Stroomi Beach is an off-the-beaten-path destination for those looking to unwind by the sea. The sunset views are absolutely breathtaking.

In conclusion, Tallinn offers a unique combination of cultural experiences, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes that are sure to leave a lasting impression. From the medieval old town to the contemporary art scene, there’s something for everyone in this charming Estonian city.