If you want to dine with the stars, then Elite’s the way to go. The Töölö-based restaurant has served as the go-to place of many Finnish legends, such as Tauno Palo, Mika Waltari, and Vesa-Matti Loiri. We can understand why: when the outside world starts getting hectic, Elite offers a welcome respite with its unhurried atmosphere. (Also, the food’s fantastic.)

Lehtovaara’s history is literally a tale of two cities. Founded in Vyborg over a century ago, Lehtovaara started out as a European-style café. As Vyborg was engulfed in the Winter War’s flames, the restaurant relocated to Töölö, Helsinki, where it became a prominent restaurant known for its Finnish-French cuisine. And that’s where Lehtovaara still stands – because some things are meant to last, through thick and thin.

A classic with a capital C. Located in Ullanlinna, South Helsinki, Sea Horse has served food and culture since 1933. Even though the name’s origin is a mystery, legends say that Sea Horse started out as sailors’ favorite haunt. Since then, the restaurant has served classic dishes to clientele from all circles of life. That’s the power of cuisine: nothing brings people together like a good meal.