Savouring Estonia. From Fine Dining to Street Food 2019-2020

Savouring Estonia From Fine Dining to Street Food

From Fine Dining to Street Food 2019-2020

Savouring Estonia

From Fine Dining to Street Food 2019-2020 II Print Cover Photo: Johannes Hõimoja NOA Restaurant Mo-Th 12-23 Fr-Sa 12-00 Su 12-22 Ranna Tee 3, Tallinn +372 508 0589 www.noaresto.ee

Texts: Heidi Vihma Designer: Aleksander Karu Translator: Juta Ristsoo Photos: Lauri Laan, Marek Metslaid, Kaupo Kalda, private collections Publisher: Best Guides OÜ www.bestguides.ee

Enjoy Savouring Estonia!

Our small country is filled with large flavours, exciting and unique eateries. Savouring Estonia has selected the best of the best. No matter whether it is a fancy, fine dining restaurant or the vendor of simple street food, they are all places where we eat, where we invite our friends and acquaintances, and that we are always happy to recommend to foreign visitors. Estonia has always been a border country both geographically and gastronomically. Like other Nordic countries, we prefer pure and fresh flavours. However, these have been enriched by both our close neighbours the Russians, as well as the Germans, with whom we shared a cultural space for centuries. Yet today, the local flavour palette includes the entire world – we are curious and open to trying new things.

Wishing you flavour journeys filled with new experiences,

Heidi Vihma

Katrin Weiss Restaurant Critic Best Guides OĂœ Estonia Estonia

Content 6

Tallinn

36

NOA Chef’s Hall

8

180 Degrees

38

Pull

10

Art Priori

40

Puri

12

CRU

42

Ribe

14

Gloria

44

Stenhus

16

Horisont

46

Tchaikovsky

18

Härg

48

TV Tower Restaurant

20

Juur

50

Tuljak

22

Konrad

52

Flavore

24

Leib

54

Golden Piglet Inn

26

Mantel ja Korsten

56

Gourmet Coffee Kadriorg

28

Mekk

58

Kolm Sibulat

30

Monaco

60

Kolu Inn

32

Moon

62

La Bottega

34

NOA

64

Nautilus

66 Nero

96 Tartu

68 NokNok

98 Hõlm

70 Odessa

100 GMP Pühajärve (in Otepää)

72 OKO

102 Joyce

74 Paju Villa

104 Kampus

76 Platz

106 Map of Tartu

78 Põhjala Tap Room

108 Pärnu

80 Radio

110 Mon Ami

82 Spot

112 NOOT

84 Sume

114 Rannahotell

86 TarTar

116 Mahedik

88 Tastes of Tallinn

118 Pastoraat

90 Von Krahli Aed

120 Map of Pärnu

92 Uulits 94 Map of Tallinn

Categories Fine Dining

Casual Dining

Street Food

Fine dining hasn’t meant classical restaurants with white tablecloths for a long time now. Today, fine dining restaurants can be very unique and special.

But basic truths never change and they still value the completeness of the experience, and turn their attention to all aspects thereof. These are places where the food and service are first class, and the menu represents the head chef’s unique creations that are born of commitment. In these places the beverage menu is outstanding, the design supports the whole, and attention is paid to the smallest details.

In some cases, the line between fine dining and casual dining may be paper-thin, but usually casual restaurants do not set goals that are comparable to fine dining. Instead they focus on the atmosphere.

The casual style gives chefs the courage to try various flavour combinations and techniques, and provides the guests with a pleasant atmosphere in which to enjoy them. Under the heading of casual dining, we have collected those restaurants and cafés that provide a gastronomical experience, pleasant service and relaxing ambience. These are places where you can also stop by for a drink, snack or light meal.

The fact that street food can also be gourmet food is proven by the best street food vendors around the world. During the last few years, local gourmet street food has also developed in Estonia. Initially, indeed based on examples from the rest of the world, since Estonian street food is still developing.

A new phenomenon on the Estonian culinary landscape is the chef going and ‘mixing with the people’. Searching for new challenges, internationally experienced top chefs are establishing street food kiosks, and applying their high culinary experience in a new context and raising street food to a totally new level.

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Bocuse d’Or Estonia has earned the honour of being the host country of the Bocuse d’Or Europe, the most prestigious competition for top chefs, in 2020. This exceptional event will bring the most talented master chefs of their generation to Tallinn from all over Europe. The Bocuse d’Or is an international cooking competition, the final of which takes place in Lyon, France every two years. According to Dimitri Demjanov, the organiser of the event, the title of host country provides an opportunity for Estonia to become the centre of European gastronomy in 2020. This is also an acknowledgement of our chefs, food producers, farmers and small farm owners, as well as tourism promoters.

Tallinn

Tallinn – the city of good food During the last ten years, the Tallinn restaurant landscape has undergone exceptional rapid development. Good restaurants of various styles, which value local ingredients, can be found in every neighbourhood.

The greatest concentration of restaurants, cafes and bars is in the Old Town, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. But when seeking gastronomic adventures, one shouldn’t limit themselves to the main thoroughfares, but also pop into some of the back streets. In the city centre, it’s worth visiting the Rotermann Quarter, where there are many special eateries. Some of the fancier fine dining restaurants are located outside the city centre in Kadriorg, Pirita and elsewhere. The street food is concentrated in trendy Kalamaja, especially around the Baltic Station, and in Pelgulinn.

Tallinn is a food capital that deserves attention. This is confirmed by the city’s opportunity to host the Bocuse d`Or Europe final competition in the spring of 2020.

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Fine Dining

180° Experience

180° by Matthias Diether

180 Degrees, a fine dining establishment located in historic Port Noblessner, serves a four- and a six-course tasting menu.

The flavour experience is completed by the visual enjoyment provided by the sea view and the kitchen in the centre of the dining room, which is open on three sides. The head chef is Matthias Diether, a Michelin-starred chef from Germany, whose ambition is to raise the quality of the local cuisine to a new level. The taste experience providing culinary brilliance is perfected by the relationship between food and drink.

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www.180degrees.ee

Tu-Sa 18 - 23 | Staapli 4, Port Noblessner, Tallinn | +372 661 0180

Fine Dining

Art Priori

Art and restaurant The Art Priori, located in Tallinn Old Town, provides wonderful experiences for all tastes –along with the cuisine, the guests can also enjoy the paintings. On display are original paintings by European old masters – primarily still lifes and scenes of domestic life. In addition to the art, Art Priori also displays its partially open kitchen, where the dishes are prepared that have propelled Art Priori to the top of the Estonian restaurant world.

The dishes are inspired by Nordic cuisine and local nature, and although they are based on classics, they are always able to surprise. All the dishes are lactose-free.

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www.artpriori.ee

Mo-Th 12 - 23 Fr-Sa 12 - 24 Su closed | Olevimägi 7, Tallinn | +372 600 33 53

Fine Dining

CRU

A head Chef that’s among the best in the world The head chef at Cru, which has been among the best restaurants in Estonia for years, is Dmitri Haljukov, who is known as a successful representative of Estonian cooking culture at the world’s most important competition for professional chefs. In 2015, Dmitri Haljukov placed 14th in the Bocuse d’Or, which is called the world championships of cooking. With his own restaurant, Haljukov has been able to bring a local clientele back to Viru Street, which is the main artery of the tourism area – the Cru’s clientele is comprised almost equally of the local citizenry and tourists.

12

www.crurestoran.eu

Mo-Su 12 - 23 | Viru 8, Tallinn | +372 6140085

Fine Dining

Gloria

Classics never age The interior and style of Gloria revive the 1930s – an era when time passed slowly and the guest was king. Built into the Tallinn’s medieval town wall, this restaurant with its nostalgia milieu has hosted Prince Charles, Pope John Paul II, the Rolling Stones, Sting, and other crowned and uncrowned stars. As is typical of a classical fine dining establishment, the tablecloths are sparkling white, mellow music strokes your ears, and the food, based on traditional French cuisine, is prepared from the best local ingredients. Compared to the culinary gymnastics currently being performed in the restaurant world, it is pleasant to see that this classic never ages.

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www.gloria.ee

Mo-Sa 17:30 - 23:30 Su closed | Müürivahe 2, Tallinn | +372 640 6800

Fine Dining

Horisont

In the heavenly heights

In Tallinn’s gastronomic world there are only a few top restaurants that extend beyond the Horisont (horizon). All the others are below this one – not only because the restaurant is located on the 30th floor of the Swissôtel, but because it has been one of Estonia’s best restaurants for years. The Horisont’s menu balances classic and contemporary cuisine, while always offering something surprising.

The service, just like the cuisine, is also excellent. And the first-rate sommelier will help you choose a suitable beverage from the large drink menu.

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www.horisontrestoran.ee

Tu-Sa 18 - 22 | Tornimäe 3, Tallinn | +372 624 3000

Fine Dining

Härg

Modern meat restaurant The founders of the Härg (Ox in English) Restaurant are three Estonian meat specialists and grill masters – Enn Tobreluts, Hanno Kuul and Andres Tuule.

The menu favourites include high-quality steaks, slow-cooked meat, and grilled dishes. The menu also features lamb, pork and duck dishes, fish, seafood, vegetarian dishes and healthy salads. The Härg’s modern interior design, which has been deemed worthy of a nomination for the annual prize awarded by the Estonian Association of Interior Architects, makes it special and festive. In the summer the restaurant expands onto the terrace, and the courtyard can accommodate larger groups of guests.

18

www.resto.harg.ee

Mo-Th 11 - 23 Fr-Sa 11 - 24 Su closed | Maakri 21, Tallinn | +372 5382 5003

Fine Dining

Juur

Back to our roots Juur (Root in English) is one of Tallinn’s hidden gastronomic treasures and one that you won’t just stumble across. Namely, it is located outside the heart of the city in the modern Ülemiste City neighbourhood. The menu is inspired by the nature-friendly cuisine of the Nordic countries.

Great emphasis is placed on the use of organic raw ingredients from small producers and sustainable consumption. The food is prepared using both innovative techniques and time-honoured food preparation methods. The staff grows some of the vegetables themselves on an organic field in South-Estonia, and they make trips together to gather berries and mushrooms. À la carte menu is available for lunch and tasting menu in the evening.

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www.restoranjuur.ee

Mo 11:30 - 16 Tu-Fr 11:30 - 22 Sa 17 - 22 | Valukoja 10, Tallinn | +372 60 707 05

Fine Dining

Konrad

Modern and classic

There can be no location closer to the heart of the city – one looks out onto Freedom Square through Konrad’s large windows. Due to its classical milieu, the Konrad is suitable for a working lunch or pleasant dinner. The menu is mostly inspired by European cuisine, which has been approached in a modern way. The tastes and combinations are simple, but not because of their means of preparation, but rather their comprehensibility – the Konrad wants its guests to understand what they are eating. The restaurant was named to honour Konrad Mägi, one of Estonia’s greatest painters.

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www.tallinnhotels.ee/konrad

Mo-Fr 12 - 22 Sa 17 - 22 Su closed | Vabaduse väljak 3, Tallinn | +372 680 6650

Fine Dining

Leib

From farm to table Of the restaurants serving new Estonian cuisine, Leib (Bread in English) is the one with the clearest profile. Raw ingredients that are local, mostly from farms and small producers; no unnecessarily whimsical cuisine here, but still inventive and always surprising. The beverage card is a sight to behold. It includes everything: the best local wines, organic and biodynamic wines, as well as a selection of beers and ciders. In the winter, the Leib is filled with a pleasant buzz, but it becomes mysteriously beautiful when it moves outdoors in the summer – into a yard of wonders hidden among the Old Town walls.

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www.leibresto.ee

Mo-Fr 12 - 15; 18 - 23 Sa 12 - 23 Su 12 - 21 | Uus 31, Tallinn | +372 611 9026

Fine Dining

Mantel ja Korsten

Taste experiences in a small wooden house in Kadriorg Cosy homeyness and elegant cuisine meet up at the Mantel ja Korsten restaurant in a green wooden house with a red roof in Kadriorg. The name comes from a rare architectural feature called a mantel chimney, which has a small private dining room inside. The signature kitchen offers many great Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The flavours surprising as do the simplicity and naturalness with which the homey and foreign ingredients have been blended into a harmonious whole. The exciting drink menu is impressive. Trust the sommelier, who will recommend the best choice!

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www.mantel-korsten.ee

Tu-Sa 12 - 23 Su, Mo closed | Poska 19a, Tallinn | +372 66 59 555

Fine Dining

MEKK

Modern Estonian cuisine For more than ten years, the restaurant called MEKK, an acronym for ‘modern Estonian cuisine’ in Estonian, has been one of the most acknowledged innovators of new Estonian cuisine.

And this is the restaurant where official visitors to Estonia are often taken to enjoy Estonian food. Using his masterful skills combined with the possibilities provided by modern technology, head chef Rene Uusmees has been able to refine the traditional cuisine into something individualised, unique and capable of surprising both visitors to our country, as well as Estonians themselves.

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www.tallinnhotels.ee/mekk

Mo-Fr 12 - 23 Sa 17 - 23 Su closed | Suur-Karja 17, Tallinn | +372 680 6688

Fine Dining

Monaco

A dignified business lunch, a formal dinner Monaco, the Nordic Hotel Forum restaurant, has won the hearts of its guests with its dignified business lunches and formal dinners. The lunch menu provides an opportunity to enjoy a healthy and varied midday meal, characterised by freshness, colourfulness and a harmony of flavours. The menu features new healthy raw ingredients along with organic products. In the evening, the Ă la carte menu features modern fusion cuisine, as well as a modern take on classic international cuisine, in which Nordic cuisine is mixed with Asia, local traditions with French and Italian classics, and Middle Eastern influences can also be felt.

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www.nordichotels.eu

À la carte menu Mo-Sa 18 - 23 | Viru väljak 3, Tallinn | +372 622 2990

Fine Dining

- RE ST O RAN KA L A MA J A S -

Moon

Modern Russian cuisine

Moon was established about ten years ago, when head chef Roman Zaštšerinski, who was at the absolute pinnacle of Estonian cuisine at the time, decided to give up fine dining, return to his roots and establish a family restaurant with his wife and cousin. Moon was one of the few Tallinn restaurants to focus on modern Russian cuisine. Since the beginning – with a few minor changes – the menu has included classic Russian borscht, pelmeni, blini, and pasties. This is a cosy eatery with a very special atmosphere, where the food is always good, the beverage selection is very large, and the service is friendly and thoughtful.

32

www.restoranmoon.ee

Mo-Sa 12 - 23 Su 13 - 21 | Võrgu 3, Tallinn | +372 6 314 575

Fine Dining

NOA

Top cuisine for everyone The NOA à la carte restaurant and NOA Chef’s Hall with a tasting menu get together under the roof of a unique building with a perfect sea view. The two sides of the building, with different looks but a single style, comprise a whole that creates a separate gastronomic world. The menu at NOA is unparalleled, special and surprising. It has been inspired by travels and the cuisines of the world. The attentive service and the beverage menu form an equal partnership with the kitchen. The NOA is located directly on the seaside on the border between Tallinn and Viimsi, enabling the guests the beautiful view that has become Tallinn’s symbol.

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www.noaresto.ee

Mo-Th 12 - 23 Fr - Sa 12 - 00 Su 12 - 22 | Ranna 3, Tallinn | +372 508 0589

Fine Dining

NOA Chef’s Hall Breaking traditions

NOA Chef´s Hall’s rise to the top was rapid. The year that it opened it was already named Estonia’s best restaurant. And it has stayed at the top. A tasting menu is on offer, with your choice of a suitable wine, champagne or juice. The dishes that have been refined down to the last detail are unique, fantasy-filled and hearty. Many of the dishes are prepared over an open fire. The open kitchen and presence of the head chef add scope to the gastronomic experience. Executive chef Tõnis Siigur is truly one of the most famous in Estonia, and the same school is represented by the head chef, a young talent named Orm Oja.

36

www.nch.ee

We-Sa 18 - 00 | Ranna 3, Tallinn | +372 50 80 589

Fine Dining

Pull Outstanding meat dishes The founders of the Pull (Bull in English) Restaurant include Enn Tobreluts, Estonia’s most authoritative meat specialist and grill master. Therefore, one can be sure that the meat dishes served here are outstanding. Most of the dishes are prepared over an open fire. And it is definitely worth trying the ‘dirty steak’, which is cooked in charcoal, and has become one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.

The menu also includes fish and vegan dishes, but it is the very plentiful and high-quality meat selection that is so impressive.

Fresh salads and a large selection of wines to accompany the meat are also on offer.

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www.resto.pull.ee

Mo-Th 12 - 23 Fr-Sa 12 - 24 Su 13 - 21 | Rotermanni 2, Tallinn | +372 5382 5000

Fine Dining

Puri

Open to new winds Opened in the spring of 2019, the Puri (Sail in English) restaurant in the Haven Kakumäe marina brings new winds to both Estonian gastronomy and restaurant architecture. An incomparable view and striking interior design make it a restaurant with one of the most memorable seaside atmospheres in the city. The menu offers a choice between a tasting menu that provides an in-depth introduction to Joonas Koppel’s personal cuisine, and a customary à la carte menu. The food experience is supplemented by a befitting wine selection and fantasy-rich cocktails.

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www.puriresto.ee

Mo-Th 17 - 23 Fr 17 - 00 Sa 12 - 00 Su 11 - 17 | Lesta 16, Tallinn | +372 5371 1111

Fine Dining

Ribe

Classical & trendy

During its more than ten years of operation, Ribe has demonstrated exceptional stability and continued to be included among the top eateries in Estonia. It has built its stellar reputation on classical principles: delicious food, an excellent drink selection, hospitality and a pleasant atmosphere. The menu is based on European classics, although they are being constantly enhanced by trendy raw materials and methods. The beverage menu with its large selection of wines and craft beers takes its cue from the food and combines both the classical and the trendy.

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www.ribe.ee

(1.10-30.04) Tu-Sa 18 - 23 (1.5-30.9) Mo-Su 12 - 23 | Vene 7, Tallinn | +372 631 3084

Fine Dining

Stenhus

The new combined with the old The Stenhus, which is located in the small Schlรถssle luxury hotel, provides an opportunity to dine in a building where many crowned heads and uncrowned celebrities have stayed. These include Roman Herzog, the President of Germany, Queen Paola of Belgium, Prince Michael of Kent, Charles, Prince of Wales, and many others. The medieval vaulted cellar and the first-class service worthy of a firstclass hotel make this traditional evening restaurant exceptional.

The menu features classic European dishes with a modern twist, which are prepared from raw ingredients sourced from Estonian farms, fishermen and small-scale producers.

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www.stenhusrestaurant.ee

Mo-Su 12 - 23 | Pühavaimu 13/15, Tallinn Old Town | +372 699 7780

Fine Dining

Tchaikovsky

A gastronomic symphony

The Tchaikovsky is respectable and formal, but in a subtle way – a slight undertone of nostalgia and a touch of theatricality don’t let its respectability predominate. Just like in a good musical composition, various themes are united in the menu – French flavours, Russian traditions, and Estonian raw ingredients – in order to provide an enjoyable combination. The personal style of head chef Vladisav Djatšuk, one of the best in Estonia, has received international recognition. ‘A pinch of humour, salt and love’ characterises his cuisine.

46

www.telegraafhotel.com

Mo-Su 18 - 23 | Vene 9, Tallinn | +372 6000 610

Fine Dining

TV Tower Restaurant High up in the sky

The TV Tower Restaurant is in heavenly heights. The talented head chef Mihkel Kalbus appreciates familiar and inherent Estonian flavours, but serves them an innovative and contemporary way. On the same floor with the restaurant is an open viewing platform that is the highest in Northern Europe.

The view is not only beautiful during sunsets, but also when it’s cloudy or dark. However, the TV Tower offers much more than just good food and a view – it is an experience centre, where there’s always something exciting to see.

The TV Tower is only a short drive from the heart of the city, and is also very accessible by public transportation.

48

www.teletorn.ee

Busses: 34a, 38 | Su-Th 10 - 21 Fr-Sa 10 - 23 | Kloostrimetsa 58a, Tallinn | +372 5111 493

Fine Dining

Tuljak

A modern take on history At the Tuljak, history meets modern design: the building, an Estonian architectural masterpiece that was completed in 1965, has undergone a renovation that is true to that era, but has acquired a contemporary interior. There is also nostalgic feel to the menu. However, a contemporary and exciting spin has been added to all the dishes. One can be absolutely sure that something unique will be served at Tuljak and nothing like it is available anywhere else in Tallinn.

The beverage menu is more varied than average. The cocktails are stylish and flavourful. The service is attentive and professional.

50

www.tuljak.ee

Mo-Th 12 - 23 Fr-Sa 12 - 00 Su 12 - 22 | Pirita tee 26E, Tallinn | +372 530 220 20

Casual Dining

Flavore

Italian customs and flavours

Ristorante Flavore is a tribute to Italian customs and flavours. Its menu takes the guests on a culinary journey through Italy. In addition to authentic Italian dishes, Flavore has the authentic atmosphere of a ristorante filled with easy-going sociability, a crossbreeding of flavours and opinions, and the passion of the head chef. The menu includes fresh pastas and pizzas as well as raw and vegan dishes. You can select a beverage to complement your meal from the unique self-service wine bar or lovely cocktail menu.

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www.flavore.ee

Mo-Su 11:30 - 22:30 | Tulemaja, Sadama 7, Tallinn | +372 612 8244

Casual Dining

Golden Piglet Inn

Authentic Estonian cuisine Kuldse Notsu Kþrts (The Golden Piglet Inn in English) in the vicinity of the Town Hall Square serves authentic and classic Estonian food. The dishes are prepared from recipes that have been handed down from generation to generation. The hardy farm cuisine, which includes sausages, pork dishes and sauerkraut, is supplemented by healthy and modern dishes that correspond to contemporary food trends and date back to the 1920s and 1930s, when the food culture became more urban. All the dishes are prepared from local raw ingredients, most of which come from small farms. And don’t miss the exceptionally rich breakfast buffet.

54

www.hotelstpetersbourg.com/restaurant

Mo-Su 12 - 23 | Dunkri 8, Tallinn | +372 628 6567

Casual Dining

Gourmet Coffee Kadriorg A café for coffee lovers Gourmet Coffee Kadriorg continues the age-old traditions of Tallinn’s café culture. The coffee selection is one of the best in the city. And it is brewed from beans roasted in their own roasting house. The menu includes coffees from ten different countries and areas, as well as espresso-based beverages and pour-over coffees using Chemex, Aeropress, and V60 techniques.

Pastries and cakes baked on the premises are served with the coffee.

And light lunches and dinners, as well as a plentiful breakfast, are also available. The café is located in the vicinity of Kadriorg Park, and is easily accessible by tram.

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www.gourmetcoffee.ee

Mo-Th 8 - 21 Fr 8 - 22 Sa-Su 9 - 22 | L. Koidula 13A, Tallinn | +372 661 3035

Casual Dining

Kolm Sibulat Limitless onions

Just like real onions, the Kolm Sibulat (three onions) restaurant is also striated: the inspiration for the menu has come from both Asia and Europe, from both fast and slow food. Kimchi, lentils, slow-cooked meat dishes with Asian-style seasoning, cold-water fish and local vegetables are presented in new and exciting combinations.

Regardless of which corner of the world has provided the inspiration, the components are balanced and the flavours are perfectly harmonised.

The large beverage selection, professional service and cosy atmosphere help maintain the balance. This is a family restaurant, created by the same people as Moon, which features Russian cuisine, and the Mantel ja Korsten.

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www.kolmsibulat.eu

Tu-Sa 12 - 23 Su-Mo closed | Telliskivi 2, Tallinn | +372 66 44 055

Casual Dining

Kolu Inn Traditional rural inn

The Kolu Inn at the Open Air Museum in Rocca al Mare serves traditional Estonian food in an original 19th-century building. The menu is focused on century-old traditions, but also makes some detours into the present day. As is typical of farm food, the dishes are simple, but prepared with a warm heart and skilful hands. In modern terms, the dishes at the Kolu Inn can be described as the most authentic slow food. The menu includes pork and porridge, sauerkraut, pea soup, and other simple farm dishes that fewer and fewer members of the younger generation still know how to prepare.

60

www.evm.ee

Every day Winter season 11 - 17 Summer 11 - 20 | VabaĂľhumuuseumi tee 12 | +372 654 9101

Casual Dining

La Bottega

Traditional Italy La Bottega serves authentic Italy in its most traditional form.

This is true of both the food and beverages, the dining room’s atmosphere and friendly service.

As is typical of Italian cuisine, great attention is paid to the fresh ingredients. And true to the local cooking traditions, all the sauces and pastas are prepared on site.

Along with Italian wines, the drink menu includes beverages from around the world and a plentiful selection of sparkling wines.

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www.labottega.ee

Mo-Th 12 - 23 Fr-Sa 12 - 24 Su 13 - 22 | Vene 4, Tallinn | +372 62 777 33

Casual Dining

The Nautilus

Seafood and oysters

It is very likely that the seafood selection at The Nautilus is the largest, not only in Tallinn, but in all of Estonia. In addition to an abundant oyster selection, there’s a large choice of mussels and shrimps, crabs and much more. In addition to an excellent fish selection, there are meat dishes for those who don’t eat fish. The Nautilus chefs are skilful and creative and many of the dishes use seafood in surprising combinations. Some of the dishes, like king crab legs, lobster, octopus, tuna steak, as well as beef fillets are prepared on a charcoal grill.

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www.fb.com/thenautilusrestaurant

Pikk 36, Tallinn | +372 5780 7777

Casual Dining

Nero

Classic cuisine at a spa hotel Nero Restaurant at the Tallink Spa & Conference Hotel The à la carte menu at the Tallink Spa & Conference Hotel’s Nero Restaurant features updated classics.

Well-known international dishes like salmon-carpaccio, buckwheat blinis with caviar, Caesar salad, borscht, spaghetti, osso bucco, and chicken Kiev are interpreted in a new way by Nero’s head chef, without losing any of the sense of security associated with a classic.

A plentiful buffet breakfast is also on offer, as is Sunday brunch. The restaurant features a spacious stage and dance floor, where the guests can enjoy themselves during private events.

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www.tallinkhotels.com

Ă€ La Carte menu Mo-Su 12 - 23 | Sadama 11a, Tallinn | +372 630 1018

Casual Dining

NokNok

As if we were in Thailand The head chef at the NOK NOK provides guests with flavourful food just like in Thailand. No fusion here, the cuisine is traditional. However, Thai traditions are filled with flavours and colours, and therefore, the menu provides surprises even for those who have previously enjoyed this country’s cuisine.

The authentic flavours are supported by the exotic atmosphere, which together with the tastes and smells, can easily convince you that you are actually in Bangkok or Chang Mai instead of Tallinn.

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www.noknok.ee

Mo-Sa 12 - 23 Su 12 - 22 | Vana-Posti 7, Tallinn | +372 5333 1744

Casual Dining

Odessa

True Odessa There is no other city like Odessa, where a food culture has developed in a very special way, so it competes with the national cuisine. It includes a diverse blend of Ukrainian, Russian, Jewish Bessarabian and Belarusian ways of cooking, along with the cuisines of many other current and former neighbours in the region. The Odessa restaurant in Tallinn Old Town is as authentic as it can be: the owners come from Odessa, the menu is comprised of traditional Odessa dishes, the hospitality is typical of Odessa, and the chefs come to work in Tallinn from Odessa in shifts.

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www.facebook.com/odessaresto

Mo-Su 11 - 23 | Pikk 30, Tallinn | +372 5302 5557

Casual Dining

OKO

Slow fast food

OKO, which is located in Haabneeme, is a beach restaurant that is open year-round. It is the perfect place for a light lunch, a formal dinner or a refreshing drink. The heart of the contemporary style eatery is the pizza oven. The authentic Italian pizzas baked in the oven are made with leavened dough made with 10-year-old natural starter brought from Rome by the Italian pizza master, who also refined the flavours. The menu also features other street food classics, which just like the pizza are prepared with great dedication and care.

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www.okoresto.ee

Su-Thu 12 - 21 Fr-Sa 12 - 22 | Kesk tee 27 Haabneeme, Viimsi | +372 53 00 4440

Casual Dining

Paju Villa

Gourmet experiences in the suburbs The Paju Villa restaurant is located in the greenery of the Nþmme suburb in an Art Nouveau building dating back to the first decades of the last century. Elegant, but homey, warm and snug, provides cosy corners for larger and smaller groups of diners. The menu offers modern versions of classical dishes and the head chef has enough fantasy to freshen the most traditional combinations. The Paju Villa is outside of the city centre, but its location on the road that leads to Pärnu, Haapsalu and the islands makes it a great place to stop before or after your trip.

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www.pajuvilla.ee

Mo-Th 12 - 22 Fr-Sa 12 - 23 Su 11 - 22 | Vabaduse puiestee 88, Tallinn | +372 50 76 242

Casual Dining

Platz

Meeting place at the crossroads of pedestrian pathways Platz was one of the first restaurants to establish itself in the newly renovated historical Rotermann industrial district.

And it secured the best location at the crossroads of the pedestrian pathways.

The minimalist Scandinavian-style interior and diverse menu are ideal for a no-nonsense business meeting, quick lunch or a formal dinner. On several occasions, Platz has been chosen as the restaurant with one of Estonia’s best beverage menus, which is much more diverse than usual. The terrace, which is an integral part of Platz in the summer, is a great place to rest and observe the hustle and bustle of the city.

76

www.platz.ee

Mo-Sa 12 - 23 Su 12 - 22 | Roseni 7, Tallinn | +372 664 5086

Casual Dining

Põhjala Tap Room Craft Beer and Texas BBQ

The magnificent early 20th-centrury building of the world-renowned Põhjala Brewery in the historic Port Noblessner area houses a beer restaurant featuring 24 taps of local craft beer and Texas BBQ-centred cuisine. The kitchen offers housesmoked meats, sandwiches and salads, ice creams and pastry, desserts and a variety of beer snacks – all made on the premises.

In addition to great craft beer and food, you can take daily brewery tours, as well as buy beers and merch from the on-site shop.

There’s also a private sauna that can accommodate up to 8 persons for rent.

78

www.pohjalabeer.com/taproom

Mo closed Tu-Th 12 - 24 Fr-Sa 12 - 02 Su 10 - 17 | Peetri 5, Tallinn | +372 5666 2800

Casual Dining

Radio

Community restaurant Rado Mitro, the Slovak head chef at Radio, has already introduced himself to Tallinners as the head chef at the firstclass restaurant called Ribe.

Radio is his newest ’baby’. This is an eatery created for the people who live and work in the neighbourhood and, despite having been recently opened, its fame has already spread afar. The dishes are perfectly prepared and provide surprises when comes to both tastes and ingredients. The work of the sommelier also deserves attention – the wine selection is large and the suggestions for wine and food pairings are excellent.

80

www.restoranradio.ee

Tu-Fr 12 - 14:30/17 - 23 Sa 17 - 23 Su & Mo closed | Terase 16, Tallinn | +372 550 4499

Casual Dining

Spot

A spot for everyone

Spot is the place for those looking for a snack or glass of wine, a hardy lunch or even a formal dinner. Its location on Vene Street, called the ‘restaurant street’ of Tallinn, makes it easy to find. The menu is modern and European with slight Scandinavian accents and a local touch. There is an abundant wine selection that is also simple and supports the menu. The large and knowledgeably compiled selection of sparkling wines deserves attention.

82

www.restoranspot.ee

Mo-Thu 12 - 23, Fr-Sa 12 - 24 Su 12 - 22 | Vene 4, Tallinn | +372 600 4977

Casual Dining

Sume

Oasis in the heart of the city Sume, the Tallink City Hotel’s restaurant, provides a peaceful atmosphere and enjoyable flavour experiences in the vicinity of the Viru Centre and Tallinn Department Store. Sume will please everyone – flavours from Scandinavia, Italy, France and elsewhere in the world meet in the kitchen with an international aura. The menu includes both timeless classics and dishes that represent the local cuisine.

In addition to the à la carte menu, Sume also serves morning and evening buffets, quick and inexpensive business lunches, and an enjoyable brunch on Sundays.

84

www.tallinkhotels.com

À La Carte menu Mo-Su 12 - 23 | Laikmaa 5, Tallinn | +372 630 0818

Casual Dining

TarTar köök+baar Tasty meeting place in the city centre

TARTAR köök+baar (kitchen+bar in English) marks a kind of culinary comeback. Its proprietor, Andrei Šmakov, is one of Estonia’s bestknown chefs, who has been the brand-chef at the Metropol Hotel in Moscow for the last several years.

His Savva restaurant at the Metropol is considered to be one of the best in Moscow. The menu at Tartar is like a crisp taste explosion, bringing a breath of fresh air to the local culinary landscape. Surprises are provided by both the content and form of the dishes, as well as the ingredients and the preparation.

86

www.tartar.ee

Mo-Th 12 - 22 Fr-Sa 12 - 01 | Narva mnt. 7, Tallinn | +372 610 9230

Casual Dining

Taste of Tallinn T1 Mall of Tallinn

The collection of eateries in the brand new T1 Mall of Tallinn in the Ăœlemiste neighbourhood is called Taste of Tallinn or TOT. The collection includes 36 restaurants, of which 13 are located on the fourth floor, away from all the shopping noise. The restaurants located on the side that faces the city centre are connected by a spacious glass gallery and terrace, with a million-dollar view of the city and the sea. Fine restaurants, street food and the coffee culture all meet up at the TOT. And the range of flavours extends from Asia to the Nordic countries, from Italy to India. After dinner, one can enjoy the city panorama from the Ferris wheel or the T1 Roof Bar.

88

www.t1tallinn.com/en/taste-of-tallinn-restoranid

Su-Th 11 - 21 Fr-Sa 11 - 23 | Peterburi tee 2, Tallinn | +372 6005540

Casual Dining

Von Krahli Aed

The embassy of pure food The main characters in the dishes at the Von Krahli Aed restaurant are the vegetables.

And you can choose meat, fish or cheese to accompany them.

Or you can also forgo the latter and focus on the vegetables. The vegetables and herbs have also given birth to many innovative supplements, like hops syrup, balsamic vinegar made from bird cherry berries, and various types of noodles. Local organic products play an important role.

All the wines on offer, as well as most of the other beverages, are produced organically. The restaurant also caters to the needs of people with various nutritional preferences.

90

www.restoranaed.ee

Su-Th 12 - 23 Fr-Sa 12 - 00 | Rataskaevu 8, Tallinn | +372 585 93 839

Street Food

Uulits

Street gourmet Uulits – Estonia’s pioneer of gourmet street food – serves traditional street food with a contemporary, healthy and Estonian-style twist. On offer are beef burgers, burger wraps, salads, sauces and French fries prepared on site. After operating for almost five years, Uulits has earned the trust and love of burger lovers. This is confirmed by that fact that, after starting as a modest kiosk in Mustamäe four years ago, Uulits is now serving street food in Mustamäe, Kalamaja, and the Baltic Station in Tallinn, as well as in Tartu.

92

www.uulits.ee

Kadaka tee 135A, Soo 1B/6, Kopli 1 Tallinn I Rüütli 7, Tartu | +372 660 12 12

8

Fine Dining

78

32

Casual Dining/ Street Food

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180 Degrees

52

Flavore

10

Art Priori

54

Golden Piglet Inn

12

CRU

56

Gourmet Coffee Kadriorg

14

Gloria

58

Kolm Sibulat

16

Horisont

60

Kolu Inn

18

Härg

62

La Bottega

20

Juur

64

Nautilus

22

Konrad

66

Nero

24

Leib

68

NokNok

26

Mantel ja Korsten

70

Odessa

28

Mekk

72

OKO

30

Monaco

74

Paju Villa

32

Moon

76

Platz

34

NOA

78

Põhjala Tap Room

36

NOA Chef’s Hall

80

Radio

38

Pull

82

Spot

40

Puri

84

Sume

42

Ribe

86

TarTar

44

Stenhus

88

Tastes of Tallinn

46

Tchaikovsky

90

Von Krahli Aed

48

TV Tower Restaurant 92

50

Tuljak

Uulits

Tartu

The city of good flavours Tartu is not only a university city, but also a city of good flavours. Its numerous restaurants serve exciting flavour experiences, whereas many of the raw ingredients came from local small producers and farms in South-Estonia. During the summer, pop-up cocktail and wine bars, for taking time out in Tartu style, appear on the Emajõgi River promenade.

The year’s greatest food event is the Food and Wine Festival in August, when good food and drink occupy the entire city for three days. Other contributions are made by the Tasty Tartu Restaurant Month and the Home Café Days in May, August and September.

96

Fine Dining

Hõlm

Special and impressive Its location in Tartu, in the Hotel Lydia, a 4-star superior hotel at the foot of Toomemägi Hill, makes the Hõlm fine dining restaurant very special and impressive. The views from the windows of the modern building of the park and City Hall Square, elegant interior design, rich drink menu and menu designed by head chef Lauri Ülenurme are also special. His dishes combine the historic with the modern: they are inspired by the recipes of the hotel and restaurant owner’s great grandmother, but executed with a modern twist. The open kitchen allows the guests to view the birth of the culinary art. The Hõlm provides the best that Tartu has to offer to lovers of good food. And a generous drink menu created by sommelier Franc Vood.

98

www.holmrestaurant.ee

Mo-Fr 18 - 23 Sa 17 - 23 | Ã&#x153;likooli 14, Tartu | +372 730 4008

Fine Dining

GMP Pühajärve Restaurant Enchanting atmosphere, delicious flavours

The GMP Pühajärve Restaurant is like a hidden jewel on the shore of the picturesque Lake Pühajärv in South-Estonia. It has been among the best eateries in Estonia for years, by serving top-quality culinary arts. The menu includes many elegant dishes prepared from local ingredients, which always provide a positive surprise. Head chef Koit Uustalu’s efforts are not limited to what is prepared in the kitchen. And the entire team works hard to give the guests a warm welcome and make sure they feel comfortable.

And these same values guide the entire staff at the GMP Clubhotel as a whole.

100

www.clubhotel.ee

Tu-Th 12 - 22 Fr-Sa 12 - 23 Su 12 - 20 | Tennisevälja 1, Otepää | +372 50 733 74

Casual Dining

Joyce

Joy of flavours The excellent choice of flavours at the Joyce restaurant is a delight. The proprietors have discovered that elusive something that makes a good restaurant into an excellent one. The menu creates unexpected harmonies, by passionately combining continents and lands. These result in some of the city’s most exciting flavour games, which are played with youthful fervour. Joyce is focused on two values that are understood around the world: ‘joy’, which results from time spent in good company; and the ‘choice’ of impressive flavours that will please any guest.

102

www.joyce.ee

Su-Th 12 - 23 Fr-Sa 12 - 24 | Riia 2, Tartu | +372 53 217 500

Street Food

Kampus

Kampus is for everyone The best street corner in Tartu near the university in the heart of the Old Town has awakened. The Kampus is more than just an eatery, it is a unique food street. During the day, Uulits, the classic of Estonian street food, gets together with KAUSS, which serves healthy food with a Hawaiian feeling. At night, they are joined by a bar and a playful Ă la carte restaurant. The restaurantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s menu is comprehensive and starts with oysters, includes the street food classics, and travels through countries and nations. The head chef seems to be daring, but luckily, he also knows what tastes good.

104

www.facebook.com/KampusTartu

Mo-Th 11:30 - 23 Fr-Sa 11:30 - 02 Su 11:30 - 21 | Rüütli 7, Tartu | +372 529 7567

Fine Dining

Casual Dining/ Street Food

104 98

102

106

Tartu 98 Hõlm 100 GMP Pühajärve (in Otepää) 102 Joyce 104 Kampus

Otepää

100

Pärnu

Pärnu, Estonia’s summer capital Pärnu’s food and restaurant life is especially lively in the summer, although wonderful places to eat can be found there year round.

There are cosy eateries in every part of town, but most of them are in the beach area and the city centre. And both the classical and contemporary, traditional and trendy are represented. Every year, one is surprised by the appearance of some totally new eatery, and the well-established restaurants and cafés are always coming out with new menus. And the careers of quite a few gastronomic superstars who have made a name for themselves have started in Pärnu.

108

Fine Dining

Mon Ami

Elegantly formal

Elegantly formal, Mon Ami, one of the most interesting eateries in the summer capital, is located on the lower floor of the Frost boutique hotel. Fresh flowers, subtle grey-and-white tones create an especially peaceful mood. In the cold weather, the guests are greeted by a fire burning in the fireplace. And the waiters pay personal attention to each visitor. The menu unites classical and contemporary trends by adding fresh approach to traditional combinations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Saaremaa juniper syrup has been added to the foie gras, and wild leek oil to the octopus.

110

www.monami.restaurant

Mo-Su 12 - 23 | Kuninga 11, Pärnu | +372 5866 9990

Fine Dining

NOOT

Discover authentic Estonian flavours The NOOT is a modern restaurant in Pärnuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beach district. The resort-like interior has been inspired by folk designs. Rudolf Visnapuu, the renowned head chef and author of the menu, uses mostly local and seasonal ingredients to create his dishes. The menu is fresh and based on Estonian food traditions, while also stimulating the taste buds of gourmets with exciting combinations. Timeless and traditional recipes along with modern additions, and some global flavours, produce simple, visually interesting and tasty dishes. Works of art that are pleasantly surprising and offer the joy of discovery.

112

www.spaestonia.ee

Mo-We 17 - 23 Th-Su 12 - 23 | A. H. Tammsaare 4a, Pärnu | +372 440 1012

Fine Dining

Rannahotell Glamourous and functionalist hotel restaurant The striking functionalist-style Pärnu Rannahotell with its light-filled restaurant has been one of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s calling cards for years. During the summer it offers wonderful sea views and a spacious terrace. The Rannahotell restaurant honours the glamour of the 1930s and the delicious traditions of Scandinavian cuisine. Despite its long history, the restaurant menu is modern, offering contemporary flavours from both Estonia and the nearby countries.

The preparation of the dishes is casual and impactful, but never overshadows the flavours. Special excitement and drama are provided by the range of flavours that permeate the various textures.

114

www.rannahotell.ee

We-Th 18 - 22 Fr-Sa 13 - 22 Su closed | Ranna Puiestee 5, Pärnu | +372 4444 444

Casual Dining

Mahedik

Organic and tasty Mahedik is one of the first eateries in Estonia that started valuing organic ingredients. The menu includes the best that the farmers and the small producers in the area have to offer. The fish comes from Pärnu Bay. The day starts with breakfast and continues with lighter and more serious dishes.

Every day the bakers make fresh rolls, pasties and cakes. The interior design with its soft colours and forms adds a gentle touch to the worth of the old wooden building, while still remaining contemporary.

As befitting a resort city, the entire cafe is joyous and summery â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in the winter as well.

116

www.mahedik.ee

Mo-Th 9 - 21 Fr 9 - 23 Sa 10 - 23 Su 10 - 20 | Pühavaimu 20, Pärnu | +372 442 5393

Casual Dining

Pastoraat Cafe

A hospitable parsonage

The Pastoraat shares its building with the Rosenplänter boutique hotel. The hotel and cafĂŠ in a beautifully restored wooden house have been named after an Estophile pastor and his living and working quarters, i.e. a parsonage. This is an especially hospitable place, where guests are welcome to have an early breakfast, lunch or dinner, or just drinks â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the cocktails are said to be among the best in the city. Fresh baked goods are prepared daily, and the full menu includes dishes made of simple ingredients, but prepared with great skill.

118

www.rosenplanter.ee

Mo-Th 7:30 - 21:30 Fr 7:30 - 23 Sa 8 - 23 Su 8 - 21 | Kuninga 30, Pärnu | +372 5787 7857

110 116

118

112

114 Fine Dining

Casual Dining/ Street Food

Pärnu 110

Mon Ami

112

NOOT

114

Rannahotell

116

Mahedik

118

Pastoraat