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The Nordic Nomad

Helsinki, Finland

The 35 best spots in Helsinki’s Punavuori neighbourhood

The Nordics • Insider guides • Hip hoods • The 35 best spots in Helsinki’s Punavuori neighbourhood

Where to stay, eat, shop and play in Punavuori

Just a stone’s throw from Helsinki‘s city centre, Punavuori is bursting with urban energy and artistic expression. Often likened to the trendy vibes of Berlin’s Kreuzberg, this neighbourhood is a tapestry of street art, showcasing local and international talent on every corner. Trendy cafes and unique boutiques are frequented by a mix of students, artists and young professionals, all contributing to the area’s dynamic atmosphere. Historically a working-class district, Punavuori has transformed into a hub of creativity and style, blending its historic roots with a modern, eclectic flair. This district is a vibrant testament to Helsinki’s ongoing cultural evolution, making it a key destination for anyone seeking to experience the city’s contemporary pulse.

Have you discovered new gems in the neighbourhood? Email us!

Stay

Hotel St. George

While Hotel St. George is not technically located within the Punavuori neighborhood, being just a couple of blocks away, it is our preferred stay when exploring the area. A sophisticated, grown-up yet never boring bolthole, this luxury property, housed in a former printing and publishing house from the 1920s, captures the Finnish capital’s stylish side. Teaming up with Finnish doctor and coach Aki Hintsa, it offers St. George Care, a range of holistic services that centre around wellbeing.

Read the full article on Hotel St. George.

Hotel St. George
Yrjönkatu 13 C
Helsinki
Finland

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Photography courtesy of Hotel St. George

Eat & drink

Bakerika

Bakerika is a contemporary bakery and café in the heart of Punavuori in Helsinki. Its distinct charm lies in its modern approach to culinary arts, serving as both a vibrant café and a bustling catering service. The interior design of Bakerika merges sleek, minimalist aesthetics with cosy, welcoming tones. The café boasts a variety of unique facilities, including customised catering options for events and special occasions. Bakerika offers a range of baked goods and signature dishes that reflect the innovative spirit of its kitchen. During your visit, you can enjoy an eclectic menu that includes both sweet and savoury treats.

Bakerika
Fredrikinkatu 25
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Bakerika

Basbas Kulma

Basbas Kulma is a wine bar and bistro, known for its relaxed and cosy ambiance. The venue blends simple, enchanting flavours with an exciting array of artisanal wines. The architecture and interior design of Basbas Kulma create a warm and unassuming bistro atmosphere. The kitchen prides itself on its charcoal grill, where juicy skewers are expertly prepared and accompanied by a variety of condiments and tasty side dishes. Signature offerings include charcuterie, cheese, salmon crudo, beef tartare and grilled pork belly.

Basbas Kulma
Telakkakadun kulma, Tehtaankatu 27-29
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Basbas Kulma

Baskeri & Basso

Baskeri & Basso, affectionately known as Basbas, is Helsinki’s cherished late-night wine bistro. This venue is renowned for its straightforward and exquisite French-Italian bistro-osteria cuisine. Set in a cosy and inviting atmosphere, Basbas offers a relaxed dining experience that is both unassuming and sophisticated. The menu features a variety of pastas and starters, thoughtfully paired with a selection of organic and trusted wines. We recommend visiting late in the evening for a serene experience, as the restaurant warmly welcomes late-night walk-ins. Ideal for those seeking a late meal, Basbas is perfect for enjoying their signature pasta alongside two or three starters in a laid-back setting.

Baskeri & Basso
Tehtaankatu 27-29
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Baskeri & Basso

Bob’s Laundry

Helsinki’s Bob’s Laundry is an intriguing blend of a bar and a laundromat, situated in the Punavuori district. The venue blends professional laundry services with the enjoyment of a relaxed bar atmosphere. You can wash your clothes while enjoying a drink. The bar offers a variety of beers, wines and crafted cocktails, alongside small savoury snacks. Additionally, Bob’s Laundry can be booked for private events, accommodating up to 100 people, with a space that is particularly suitable for cocktail events and parties.

Bob’s Laundry
Merimiehenkatu 40
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Bob’s Laundry

Canvas Canteen

Located in a charming 150-year-old building in the Punavuori district, Canvas Canteen epitomises homely dining with a focus on seasonal, quality ingredients inspired by global cuisines. This eatery offers a daily changing menu, primarily serving lunch and transforming into a private dining venue in the evenings. It is known for its intimate and welcoming atmosphere and captures the essence of dining in a friendly setting that feels like home. While it closes in the evenings and on weekends for regular service, it opens its doors for private events.

Canvas Canteen
Pursimiehenkatu 21
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Canvas Canteen

Daddy Greens

Daddy Greens Pizzabar, offers a unique dining experience with a strong emphasis on vegan-friendly options. The restaurant prides itself on its homemade cashew cheese and pesto, providing a delightful alternative for those following a vegan diet. You can choose from a range of creatively topped pizzas, noted for their great flavours and spicy options. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a pleasant spot for both quick bites and leisurely meals. Daddy Greens has been commended for its vegan offerings, which include gluten-free options for pizzas and beers.

Daddy Greens
Iso Roobertinkatu 26
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Daddy Greens

Demo

Demo Restaurant in Helsinki offers an elegant dining experience that marries the complexity of flavours with a sophisticated setting. It’s recognised for its innovative cuisine that often incorporates local and seasonal ingredients, crafted into dishes that both surprise and delight the palate. The restaurant is set in a chic and contemporary space. Demo is recognised for its unique menu offerings, which change seasonally, providing a fresh and dynamic dining experience each visit. The attention to detail in both the presentation of the dishes and the ambiance of the restaurant adds to the overall high-end gastronomic adventure.

Demo
Uudenmaankatu 9-11
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Demo

Forza

Forza, in Helsinki’s trendy Punavuori district, is well known for its pizza, masterfully baked in a traditional Neapolitan oven, offering you a taste of genuine Italian craftsmanship up here in the great frozen north. The industrial chic decor complements the warm, familial vibe, making it a welcoming spot. Known for its meticulous attention to ingredient quality and preparation, Forza ensures each dish is crafted to enhance everyday dining experiences, which has earned it a spot among the top pizzerias in Europe.

Forza
Pursimiehenkatu 29 31
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Forza

Haru Plus Sushi

Helsinki’s premier sushi destination stands out with its offering of an extensive range of sushi in the bustling districts of Punavuori. The restaurant is noted for its fresh and original Japanese dishes, which they are making available both buffet style and a la carte. The interior of Haru Plus Sushi blends modern aesthetics with a touch of traditional Japanese design. If you are a sushi lover like us, Haru Plus Sushi is definitely a go-to spot if you have cravings in Helsinki.

Haru Plus Sushi
Annankatu 6
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Haru Plus Sushi

Kanniston Leipomo

Rooted in Helsinki since 1914, Kanniston Leipomo combines traditional baking with modern retail. Known for its breads and pastries, this bakery has evolved from a simple workshop to a city-wide institution with multiple locations, our favourite being the one in Punavuori. Artisanal charm and the scent of fresh baking greets every visitor. Signature offerings include their beloved korvapuusti – Finnish for cinnamon roll – and Berliner doughnuts, renowned for their authenticity and flavour. Experience the simple pleasure of enjoying freshly baked goods, crafted with skill and passion passed down through generations.

Kanniston Leipomo
Kankurinkatu 6
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Kanniston Leipomo

Karppi Fusion Izakaya

Karppi Fusion Izakaya offers a vibrant twist on traditional Japanese izakaya dining, infusing it with a unique blend of Western flavours. Situated in the middle of Punavuori, this restaurant is distinguished by its dynamic fusion cuisine and stylish, modern decor. The menu showcases an array of innovative small plates designed for sharing. Signature dishes include Vietnamese fusion beef tartare with salted egg yolk cream and crystal quartz and the Bit-A-Bite 2.0 featuring pickled roasted shimeji mushrooms with vegan truffle mayo. Karppi’s atmosphere is casual but sophisticated and offers an exceptional culinary experience.

Karppi Fusion Izakaya
Punavuorenkatu 3
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Karppi Fusion Izakaya

Latitude 25

With its location right in the heart of Helsinki, Latitude 25 offers a distinctive dining experience as Finland’s first Omakase restaurant. Here, you can immerse yourself in a 16-course seafood journey, crafted to perfection and that highlights an impressive variety of rare fish. The unique dining concept involves dishes like Edomae sushi being served directly by the chef, contributing to a very personal ambiance of the experience. The restaurant boasts a refined and cosy setting, designed to complement Latitude 25’s culinary offerings with standout dishes such as sea urchin and tuna belly enhanced by hand-grated wasabi.

Latitude 25
Albertinkatu 19
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Latitude 25

Levain Merikortteli

In Helsinki’s lively Punavuori district, Levain Merikortteli blends artisan bread-making with contemporary dining. Occupying a space that once housed an old factory, we are impressed by the venue retaining a raw, industrial charm, accented by wooden aesthetics and pastel colours. Levain Merikortteli serves as a welcoming extension of the neighbourhood’s living room, offering freshly baked wheat sourdough and a variety of no-nonsense dishes of high quality. Popular for its warm ambiance and open bakery view, Levain offers a menu that features daily breakfast, lunch and light dinner options.

Levain Merikortteli
Pursimiehenkatu 29-31
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Levain Merikortteli

Natura

Natura presents a dining experience that focuses on sustainability, the freshness of Finnish seasonality, sometimes a challenge, given the geographic location and the purity of locally sourced ingredients. The family-run establishment offers an open kitchen atmosphere, where you can observe dishes being prepared with great care. Natura’s menu changes daily and includes tasting menus along with a la carte options. Highlighted dishes include wild lavaret, elk tartar and various artisan desserts, paired with a selection of organic and biodynamic wines. Natura also emphasises eco-friendly practices, earning recognition like the Michelin Green Star for its commitment to sustainability.

Natura<br
Iso Roobertinkatu 11
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of natura

Ravintola Nolla

Ravintola Nolla in Helsinki exemplifies its name, meaning ’zero’ in Swedish, by pioneering a zero-waste philosophy. This ethos permeates every aspect of its operations: the restaurant avoids packaging from suppliers, repurposes materials like bed linen for staff uniforms and processes organic waste with an on-site composter. Furthermore, its in-house microbrewery, visible from the dining area, enhances the dining experience. Our go-to dish, the deer tartar with black walnut emulsion and goat cheese, showcases Nolla’s commitment to combining locally sourced, sustainable ingredients with culinary innovation. These practices underscore Nolla’s role as a model for how restaurants can minimise environmental impact while delivering a creative and engaging dining experience.

Ravintola Nolla
Fredrikinkatu 22
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Ravintola Nolla

Ravintola Nolita

Ravintola Nolita in Helsinki, a bistro-bakery hybrid, begins each dining experience with its divine bread, setting a scrumptious standard from the start. This eatery excels in its rustic yet modern ambience, inviting patrons to indulge in a convivial sharing experience. The menu encourages a communal table dynamic, featuring items like the bread plate with dips, charcuterie and a selection of vibrant starters such as pumpkin tempura with shiso and vadouvan crème and rainbow trout with orange and dill. Main courses like Nolita’s burger and the catch of the day ensure that every palate is catered to.

Ravintola Nolita
Kankurinkatu 6
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Ravintola Nolita

Ravintola Salve

This eatary holds a revered place in the city’s maritime history, originally serving as a kiosk for seamen since 1897. Today, Salve offers a dive into Finland’s culinary heritage with dishes that boast robust, traditional flavours. Known for serving possibly the best Baltic herring in the country, the restaurant also features a menu replete with Finnish staples, appealing to a diverse clientele from artists to blue-collar workers. The interior of Salve is adorned with nautical memorabilia, reflecting its historic roots and connection to maritime culture.

Ravintola Salve
Hietalahdenranta 5 C
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Ravintola Salve

Robusto

Rubusto in Punavuori, Helsinki is a dining highlight, popular for its timeless and authentic cuisine crafted by Kari Aihinen and Olli Kolu. The restaurant delivers a straightforward approach to genuine flavors, rooted in classic gastronomy with a hint of playfulness. Rubusto is known for its à la carte offerings that bring seasonal tastes to the plate, making no compromises on the richness of flavors and the warmth of service. As the name implies, you will enjoy robust dining during both lunch and dinner. The relaxing bar area serves lighter dishes in a casual setting.

Round Punavuori

This distinctive café specialises in vegan fare, and is particularly known for its donuts and bagels. The café is a lively space that also showcases various artworks by local artists, for a little cultural twist to the dining experience. The menu is not only limited to sweet treats but also includes a range of speciality coffees and other beverages. Round Punavuori is a popular spot for those in seach of a casual café to have a chat and do some people watching.

Round Punavuori
Iso Roobertinkatu 16
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Round Punavuori

Skiffer Viiskulma

Skiffer Viiskulma in Helsinki is known for its inviting and relaxed atmosphere, complemented by a diverse menu that caters to both pizza enthusiasts and salad lovers. This establishment is part of the Skiffer family of restaurants, known for their signature liuskas – long pizzas. The culinary offerings at Skiffer Viiskulma feature inventive toppings and flavor combinations, such as the Chili con Carne pizza, which is topped with cheddar, fresh chili, nachos, coriander and avocado, among other pizzas that include traditional and gluten-free options.

Skiffer Viiskulma
Laivurinkatu 10
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Skiffer Viiskulma

Southpark Restaurant

Southpark Restaurant, situated in the scenic Sinebrychoff Park in Helsinki, offers an inviting atmosphere and delightful culinary offerings. The restaurant provides a tasty selection of lunches on weekdays and a sumptuous brunch during weekends. Its location next to the Sinebrychoff Art Museum adds a cultural touch to the experience, enhancing the ambience with picturesque park views. The menu, which emphasises fresh and high-quality ingredients, will likely offer something that you’ll like, as the selection is wide.

Southpark Restaurant
Bulevardi 40
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Southpark Restaurant

The Rook

The Rook, a British-style gastropub in Helsinki, brings a unique twist to pub dining. Helmed by esteemed chef Hans Välimäki, it offers a fusion of seafood and game. Dishes like fish & chips and pigeon Wellington showcase its eclectic menu. The pub’s ambience, designed by Fyra, echoes the 1919 Birmingham setting of the television show Peaky Blinders, with green walls and a continuous sofa row enhancing its communal vibe. A standout feature is a crystal chandelier, adding elegance to the pub’s character. With about 60 seats, including a secret room for bespoke cocktail making, The Rook provides an intimate, yet lively dining experience.

The Rook
Yrjönkatu 2
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Fyra and The Rook

Yes Yes Yes

Situated at Iso Roobertinkatu 1 in Helsinki, Yes yes yes offers a spirited and stylish dining experience in a vibrant, artsy atmosphere. This restaurant boasts a menu that’s entirely vegetarian, with a wealth of vegan options available, showcasing innovative and globally inspired dishes. The venue, characterised by its dynamic use of colors and modern decor, includes a lively bar area and a tandoor oven that adds an authentic touch to their culinary offerings.

Yes Yes Yes
Iso Roobertinkatu 1
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Yes Yes Yes

Ziara’s Cafe

Ziara’s Café is located in the heart of the Punavuori neighbourhood in Helsinki and offers a charming experience, focusing on high-quality breakfast, coffee and fresh pastries. The café is praised for its cosy atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing breakfast or a leisurely coffee break. We can’t agree more. The menu caters to those looking for a tasty start to the day in a welcoming environment. Ziara’s Café stands out for its delightful culinary offerings in a friendly setting.

Ziara’s Cafe
Albertinkatu 10
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Ziara’s Cafe

Shop

Annan Suklaatehdas

Annan Suklaatehdas crafts exquisite handmade chocolates, right in the middle of Punavuori neighbourhood. Established as a destination for chocolate lovers, this chocolaterie offers a variety of unique flavors ranging from traditional to innovative combinations, all crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The selection includes options suitable for vegans and those sensitive to gluten. Annan Suklaatehdas not only sells chocolates directly from their shop but also hosts tasting events and caters to special occasions.

Annan Suklaatehdas
Korkeavuorenkatu 9
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Annan Suklaatehdas

Common

Common epitomises a blend of Japanese aesthetics with Nordic minimalism and the store offers a thoughtfully curated selection of Japanese goods that highlight the timeless simplicity shared between Japanese and Nordic design. Helsinki’s architecture complements the store’s style. Common’s interiors, though modern and welcoming, echo this Finnish architectural ethos, blending international design within a distinctly local framework.

Common
Pursimiehenkatu 1
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Common

Frenn

Frenn, founded in Helsinki in 2013 by Jarkko Kallio and Antti Laitinen, showcases sustainable men’s fashion using ecologically sourced European materials. The brand is noted for its modular designs that are both easy to maintain and repair. Frenn’s store features an interior designed by Pentagon Design, blending Scandinavian minimalism with a cosmopolitan edge. The space is marked by minimalist furnishings against an indigo blue backdrop, enhancing the shopping experience by focusing on functional elegance and quality craftsmanship.

Frenn
Fredrikinkatu 4
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of frenn

Inbloom

Locatd in the Punavuori area of Helsinki since 2007, Inbloom is a floral shop known for its modern and elegant designs. Inbloom stands proudly in the Design District and specialises in creating bespoke floral arrangements, bouquets, wreaths and installations for events and special occasions. The store ensures that each floral creation uniquely addresses the desires of its customers. Inbloom also extends its offerings through an online shop where customers can pre-order items like luxurious bouquets or seasonal wreaths, each crafted with care and artistic flair.

Inbloom
Uudenmaankatu 34
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of inbloom

Lokal Galleri

Lokal Galleri in Helsinki is a celebrated space that combines an art gallery with a design shop showcases an array of local Finnish art and handcrafted items. The gallery curates a selection of unique artworks, including paintings, sculptures and photography, alongside a variety of handcrafted homeware and jewellery. These items are all created by Finnish or Finland-based artists and artisans. We love the curation, which still provides a broad selection of items. The Lokal Galleri is also known for its commitment to sustainable design and fostering a community that appreciates timeless beauty and the harmony of nature.

Lokal Galleri
Annankatu 9
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Lokal galleri

Moko Market

Exuding a whimsical and bohemian atmosphere, Mokko Market combines a café, serving homemade and organic products, with a concept store that offers a cosy atmosphere where visitors can enjoy a unique shopping and dining experience. Located in the Punavuori district, this venue is known for its diverse range of interior design items, including vintage pieces, old Indian cabinets and various textiles. Additionally, Moko Market sells clothes, dishes and decorative souvenirs.

Moko Market
Perämiehenkatu 10
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Moko Market

Nide

A distinctive bookstore located in the heart of Helsinki’s Design District, Nide is specialising in books and magazines that cater to enthusiasts of art and visual culture. It offers a wide selection of literature, with an emphasis on providing a meeting place for book lovers. The store’s atmosphere is designed to encourage browsing and discovery, making it a popular spot not only for purchasing books but also for immersing oneself into the literary world. Nide’s location on Fredrikinkatu makes it a central and accessible destination within the lively Design District.

Nide
Fredrikinkatu 35
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of nide

Papershop

Papershop, situated in the Punavuori area of Helsinki, is a specialised stationery shop with a keen focus on quality paper products and unique stationery items sourced globally. This shop is particularly appealing to enthusiasts of bespoke and artisanal paper goods, offering a range from everyday stationery to exquisite pieces ideal for gift-giving, which had us stocking up on a number of items. Their presence in the Design District underscores their commitment to both aesthetic appeal and functional design in their offerings.

Papershop
Fredrikinkatu 18
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of papershop

Relove Freda

Relove Freda, located in Helsinki’s Punavuori district, adds to the array of second-hand shops and cafés in Helsinki. This venue is one of our favourites, known for its commitment to sustainable fashion and lifestyle products. Relove Freda appeals to those interested in eco-friendly shopping. The café enhances the experience with its all-day breakfast, weekly changing lunch menus and a variety of homemade pastries and snacks. The venue’s summer terrace, weather permitting, is a popular spot for enjoying meals or beverages outdoors.

Relove Freda
Fredrikinkatu 25
Helsinki
Finland

Photography courtesy of Relove freda

Vimma

This design store stands out for a commitment to sustainable and responsible fashion. The store is renowned for its striking collections that include dresses, knitwear, accessories and more, all characterized by bold colours and distinctive patterns. Vimma’s products are designed in Finland and produced locally in the Baltic region, ensuring high standards of quality and ethical production. The brand uses recycled materials and surplus fabrics to create eternal clothes designed to be durable and timeless.