Turku – Culinary heart of southwest Finland

3 minute read

People dining by the river Aura in Turku.

Credits: Visit Turku Archipelago

Discover a rising star on the Nordic culinary map

Just two hours from Helsinki, Turku is quietly making waves in the world of Nordic cuisine. This historic city on Finland’s southwest coast is a favourite among chefs, food lovers and culture seekers alike offering everything from open-fire restaurants and sea-fresh delicacies to Michelin-starred dining.

Set in the heart of the Finnish Archipelago, Turku’s food culture is rooted in clean flavours, high-quality produce and a relaxed approach to fine dining. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy world-class tasting menus without ever needing to change out of your wool jumper.

Article published in July, 2025.

Credits: Visit Turku

A local food scene with global appeal

Turku’s culinary strength lies in its access to pure ingredients and strong regional traditions. The surrounding archipelago is known for its long growing season and mineral-rich soil, producing vibrant vegetables, wild herbs and berries. From the nearby waters come whitefish, pike-perch and herring – all regulars on local menus.

This is a city that values sustainability and seasonality. Many restaurants work closely with nearby farms, foragers and fishermen, creating menus that shift with the weather and the catch of the day. And while Turku’s food culture is proudly Finnish, it’s not afraid to mix things up blending classic Nordic flavours with global inspiration and playful creativity.

It’s no surprise, then, that Turku was chosen to host the MICHELIN Guide Ceremony for the Nordic Countries in 2023. On 12th June, the city welcomed chefs, journalists and food lovers from across Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden to celebrate the region’s most outstanding restaurants. The event placed Turku firmly on the international culinary map. Not just as a host, but as a destination worth travelling for.

Credits: Kaskis

8 x great places to eat and drink in Turku

Credits: Kaskis

Kaskis
Perched on top of Kaskenmäki hill, this 36-seat gem is the first restaurant outside Helsinki to earn a Michelin star. Seasonal menus are built around local produce, showcasing the best of southwest Finland on every plate. Book well in advance.

Mami
Overlooking the River Aura, Mami serves relaxed but refined bistro-style dishes. The kitchen draws on Nordic ingredients and French traditions with favourites like fried whitefish and rhubard dessert in the summer.

Smör
Housed in a vaulted cellar by the River Aura, Smör offers modern Nordic cuisine with a strong focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients. Seasonal tasting menus highlight wild herbs, fresh seafood and thoughtful wine pairings, all served in an elegant yet relaxed setting.

Tintå
Just steps from the river, Tintå is a local favourite known for its relaxed vibe, great wine list and crowd-pleasing menu. Open from lunch until late, it’s the kind of place where locals come for everything from a quick salad to a long dinner with friends.

Kuori
For fresh, innovative vegetarian food in a stylish setting, head to Kuori. Located in a 1960s stone building, this green oasis blends urban edge with natural beauty. The menu is seasonal and creative, with bold flavours and a deep respect for produce all served in a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere.

Kakolanruusu
This open-flame kitchen is located in a former prison on Kakolanmäki hill – now one of the city’s most exciting urban renewal areas. Designed for sharing, the dishes are local, seasonal, and full of character. Sustainability is at the heart of everything.

Oobu
In a historic house along the riverfront, Oobu celebrates traditional island cuisine with a modern twist. Fish and vegetables from the archipelago are served with care, and every dish is gluten- and lactose-free. One of the restaurant’s proudest traditions is smoking all its fish on site, ensuring every dish is fresh, flavourful and true to its archipelago roots.

Suomalainen Pohja
This long-standing restaurant is a love letter to Finnish food. Suomalainen Pohja (meaning “Finnish Base”) focuses on rustic, hearty dishes made with local ingredients. The cosy, wood-accented interior and welcoming staff make it feel like you’ve stepped into a luxurious Finnish summer house – only with table service and white table cloths.

For more inspiration about what to eat and drink in Turku, go to Visitturku.fi.

Credits : Abo Creatives

Credits: Restaurant Mami, Visit Turku Archipelago

Turku's café culture

Café culture is an essential part of life in Turku, especially in the summer. Whether you’re starting your day, taking a break by the river or meeting friends, the city offers a variety of cosy and well-loved cafés each with its own atmosphere and local touch.

A local favourite is Café Art, located along the River Aura. Known for high-quality coffee and changing art exhibitions, it’s a natural meeting place in the heart of the city. Not far away, Fabbes Café is a relaxed spot in a historical location, serving homemade soups, cakes and lunch in a welcoming setting.

Gaggui Kaffela blends Nordic design with lovingly prepared drinks and baked goods. Everything is made on site – from jam to sugar paste – and the coffee is ground fresh from beans right behind the counter. For a more historic experience, visit Café Qwensel, set in Finland’s oldest wooden pharmacy building. In summer, its quiet courtyard offers a peaceful break from the city.

Credits: Terri Vahtera, Visit Turku

Getting to Turku

Turku is just over two hours from Helsinki by train, with frequent connections operated by VR, Finland’s national railway. Trains are spacious, accessible and family-friendly with onboard dining, pet compartments and even private cabins if you feel like stretching out in style. If you prefer to travel on road, there are affordable and daily bus connections. You can check out the connections at Perille.fi.

You can also arrive in Turku by sea. Daily ferries from Stockholm operated by Viking Line and Tallink Silja travel through the stunning Archipelago Sea, offering a scenic and relaxing way to enter Finland. The ferry terminals in Turku are located close to the city centre and well connected by public transport. You can also travel with Finnlines on their modern and comfortable ferries from Kapellskär in Sweden to Naantali, Turku's neighbouring town.

Credits: Viking Line