Located at the northernmost tip of Europe, Estonia is bordered by the Baltic Sea and shares a border with the Gulf of Finland. This small country in Europe has many diverse natural landscapes, from beaches to impenetrable forest areas. The country is also rich in history and culture which can also be seen in their local cuisine. If one is tired of wandering around the country’s countless palaces and museums, one should take a break and taste Estonian cuisine at one of the following. Estonian restaurant, Scroll down to find out why these restaurants get a spot on this list.
6 Most Popular Estonian Restaurants
Can’t you wait to try the delicious dishes of Estonia on your trip? That’s why we’ve brought you some amazing alternatives to restaurants that you can try right here.
1. Altaza Tavern
This amazing restaurant is located in Lahema National Park, a few kilometers from the capital, Tallin. As the name suggests, the interior of the restaurant is designed like a medieval inn, with farming equipment lying in the corners, reflecting the nearby fishing village. Even the cutlery used to serve and eat the amazing Estonian dishes is made of clay giving customers an 18th century feel. Altja Tavern is one of the best restaurants in Estonia that serves simple and authentic Estonian cuisine. The restaurant also has a playground for children and a courtyard perfect for family picnics.
Place: Altja, 45408 Laane-Viru County, Estonia
Cost for two: 1000 rupees
TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5
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2. Restaurant Ribeye
This Estonian restaurant in Tallinn exudes sophistication and warmth. The restaurant is located in the bustling Old Town Square and impresses customers with its contemporary interior. Established in the early years of the millennium, this restaurant is famous for its Estonian and other Nordic region cuisine. The restaurant gives utmost importance to the quality of food and thus cooks its dishes using fresh garden and seasonal produce. The menu is always a 4-course set menu which is subject to frequent change. Nevertheless, some of the must-try items from this restaurant are the Mushroom Ravioli, Beef Tartare and Green Tea Ice Cream.
Place: Ven 7, Tallin 10123, Estonia
Cost for two: 1500 rupees
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5
3. Restaurant Route
Among the most unusual Estonian restaurants, Juur is known for its creative and quirky food presentation and combinations. The interiors of the restaurant have been designed with taste and beauty. The restaurant uses all seasonal and fresh meat/vegetable produce to create traditional European or Scandinavian dishes with a modern twist. The dishes are always presented in such a way that they appear to be a reproduction of the country’s landscape. Needless to say, the menu changes as the seasons in Tallin change. Some innovative dishes to try here are baked fish, duck and lamb chops. It is also highly vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
Place: Valukoja 10, Tallin 11415, Estonia
Cost for two: 1500 rupees
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5
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4. Tammuri Farm Restaurant
This cleverly planned farm restaurant serves food that is no less than the Estonian Michelin restaurants. The European and Estonian cuisine at this restaurant is prepared using the freshest produce from their own farm. The traditional dishes have been given a contemporary twist which has been well accepted by the locals. Located in the center of Tallin city, the restaurant takes in the charming countryside and serves the most delicious food. The atmosphere of the restaurant represents a hunting farm of the early 20th century. It includes a fireplace, a live grill, and an intimate atmosphere. Their bar menu includes a wide selection of wines and innovative cocktails. Some of the must-try dishes here are sauerkraut soup, lamb dishes and chocolate bombs.
Place: Muehuerivahe 27b, Viru Street 11, Tallin 10140, Estonia
Cost for two: INR 2000
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5
5. Von Krahl Gardens
This is one of the rare restaurants in Estonia that values organic European and Estonian cuisine and succeeds in making it utterly delicious. This is a favorite restaurant for all vegetarian lovers, but it also serves some of the best minced meat food. The restaurant’s interiors represent a rich Estonian home with regular household furniture and decorations all around. The atmosphere of the restaurant is warm and intimate, with low ceiling lights and glowing table lamps. It provides an ideal atmosphere for a romantic or private evening. It serves delicious dishes as well as a variety of beers. One will leave this restaurant pleased with the food and service.
Place: Ratskaevu 8, Tallin 10123, Estonia
Cost for two: 2500 rupees
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5
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6. Safar Restaurant
This unique restaurant in Tallin is an urban establishment that serves old-fashioned Estonian and European cuisine. The architecture of the restaurant is inspired by Italy and most of their dishes are also inspired by Italy. Traditional food given an Italian twist that works surprisingly well. The interiors have been designed as one part café and one part resto, with lots of greenery installed inside. The dishes that come to the table are fresh and colorful. This restaurant is quite famous for its brunch menu which also includes a lot of vegetarian dishes. Healthy and fresh dishes seem to be their motto. One can try their delicious trout, beetroot and cheese salad and some amazing desserts made from natural ingredients.
Place: Mere Puesti, Tallin 10111, Estonia.
Cost for two: 1500 rupees
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5
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Estonian Food Facts
Although Estonia loves to experiment with its traditional cuisine, there are some facts about Estonian food that anyone should know before visiting the country.
1. Bread Luck: Bread has been considered a staple food of Estonian people since ancient times. When it comes to roti they believe in following certain rules to maintain the luck of their roti in the house. Bread luck originally represented wealth and prosperity in Estonia. Therefore, care should be taken not to cut hot bread with a knife, nor keep it on the table nor drop it.
2. Mustard Infusion: Traditional Estonian cuisine contains small amounts of oriental spices, but one could be overwhelmed by the amount of mustard that Estonians use in their dishes. If one is not a fan of the strong acidic flavor of mustard, Estonian dishes are probably not a valid substitute. It is considered medicinally effective for most minor ailments. Local people not only consume mustard but also use it as a bath product.
3. Blood Sausage: Local people believe in using every part of what nature provides us. It is also good for livestock. It may sound gory, but traditional Estonian dishes also include the blood of a killed animal. One of the famous dishes served during Christmas is blood sausage which is cooked until the meat turns black and then served with mustard.
4. Shashlik: It is not known to this day how this Armenian dish became the national dish of Estonia. During Midsummer’s Eve one can find cafes, restaurants and bakeries filled with various types of shashlik. If one happens to be in Estonia in the summer, one can enjoy various versions of shashlik.
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how to reach estonia
Estonia can be reached from all major cities of the world. Many major airlines from Delhi have direct flights to any of the three Scandinavian countries, from where one has to catch Estonian Airlines to reach Tallin. The best countries for connecting flights from India are Amsterdam, Denmark and Paris. One can also board a ferry from Norway or Finland. In addition to these, some intercountry trains run between Estonia and major cities in Europe.
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This small country located in an isolated area of Northern Europe has its own charm. The rural areas and surroundings of this modern country are mesmerizing and worth seeing. Apart from innumerable palaces and beaches, Estonia offers some of the best culinary delights to tourists. The Estonian restaurant mentioned above is more of an experience than a place serving food. Book your trip to Europe with TourTravelHotels and explore the unusual aspects of this European country.
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