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Restaurant Elm

Helsinki, Finland

Discover Restaurant Elm in Helsinki Finland's cozy mediterranean gem located in a historic wooden villa near Kaivopuisto park offers an inviting atmosphere and a menu rich in mediterranean flavors perfect for food lovers and travelers seeking an authentic dining experience in helsinki.

Nestled at Puistokatu 4, Restaurant Elm invites guests into a beautifully restored 19th-century wooden villa that exudes historic charm. The ambiance is warm and relaxed, enhanced by dim lighting and tasteful decor that makes it an ideal spot for both intimate dinners and lively group gatherings. Located conveniently near the lush Kaivopuisto park, it offers guests a chance to blend a serene outdoor stroll with an exquisite culinary experience.

Unique menu highlights and mediterranean flavors

Restaurant Elm's menu is a celebration of Mediterranean cuisine with a Finnish twist. Diners rave about starters such as the creamy burrata, grilled octopus, and flavorful beef tartare. Main courses like braised beef in red wine and the catch of the day are praised for their tenderness and bold flavors, while unique sides like fried beans bring an innovative touch. The saffron risotto with honey turnip and pistachio is a standout dish, showcasing the kitchen’s skill in balancing nuanced flavors.
Guests appreciate the weekly changing lunch menu that offers high quality at affordable prices, making it a top choice for locals and tourists alike. The restaurant also serves a variety of beverages including fine wines, crafted cocktails, and coffee to complement every meal.

Atmosphere and service experience

The atmosphere at Restaurant Elm is often described as cozy and bohemian, with a welcoming and relaxing vibe. Whether dining inside the historic villa or enjoying the veranda terrace during warmer months, guests feel at home. Service is generally excellent, with attentive staff who accommodate dietary preferences and group needs with professionalism and warmth.
The restaurant is dog-friendly and welcomes children, making it a versatile venue for many occasions. Paid street parking is available nearby, and digital payments including NFC, debit, and credit cards are accepted for convenience.

Community sentiment and considerations

While many visitors praise Restaurant Elm for its charming setting and exceptional service, the community sentiment is mixed regarding food consistency and portion sizes. Some diners find the flavors innovative and delightful, while others note occasional imbalances or overly fatty cuts in certain dishes. These varied experiences highlight the restaurant’s adventurous culinary approach that may appeal differently to individual tastes.

FAQs about Restaurant Elm

  • What are the operating hours of Restaurant Elm? Restaurant Elm operates Monday to Friday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM, Saturday from 1:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and is closed on Sundays.
  • Is it necessary to make a reservation at Restaurant Elm? Yes, due to its popularity and limited seating, it's recommended to make a reservation in advance to ensure availability.
  • Does Restaurant Elm offer vegetarian or vegan options? Yes, the restaurant provides vegetarian-friendly dishes and can accommodate vegan dietary preferences upon request.
  • Is there outdoor seating available at Restaurant Elm? Yes, the restaurant features a veranda-terrace suitable for outdoor dining during warm days.
  • Does Restaurant Elm accept credit cards? Yes, the restaurant accepts major credit cards and digital payment methods.

Restaurant Elm history and charm in helsinki Finland.

Nestled in the heart of Helsinki's prestigious Eira district, Restaurant Elm offers a captivating blend of historical charm and contemporary culinary excellence. Housed within a beautifully restored 19th-century wooden villa just steps from the scenic Kaivopuisto park, this establishment embodies the rich heritage of its surroundings while presenting a distinctly modern dining experience.

From opening to acclaim

Since its grand opening in 2022, Restaurant Elm has quickly become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. The transformation of a historic wooden villa into a vibrant dining venue marked a significant addition to Helsinki's culinary scene. Just a year after welcoming its first guests, Elm gained considerable recognition for its inviting ambiance, which artfully combines the villa’s architectural history with warm, dim lighting and cozy interiors.

Mediterranean inspiration and sustainable values

Restaurant Elm is renowned for its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, emphasizing freshness, seasonality, and sustainability. The menu delights with carefully crafted dishes that highlight local ingredients and vibrant flavors, delivering a unique Mediterranean touch to Helsinki’s dining landscape. This commitment to sustainable gastronomy resonates well with the environmentally conscious traveler and food enthusiast.

Experience and atmosphere

Diners at Elm appreciate the restaurant’s unique historic setting combined with a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. With attentive service and an inviting ambiance enhanced by dim lighting, it’s an ideal spot for both intimate dinners and group gatherings. Many patrons highlight the charm of its old-world architecture alongside the innovative menu, making each visit a memorable culinary journey.
  • 2022 Opening Restaurant Elm opened its doors to the public in a beautifully restored 19th-century villa in Helsinki.
  • 2023 Recognition The restaurant earned acclaim for its unique ambiance and Mediterranean-inspired menu highlighting seasonality and sustainability.

Discovering restaurant elm in helsinki's charming wooden villa setting

Nestled in a beautifully restored 19th-century wooden villa near Helsinki’s picturesque Kaivopuisto park, Restaurant Elm offers a distinctive dining experience that combines Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The venue itself radiates historic charm while providing modern comfort, making it an ideal spot for both casual lunches and elegant dinners. Visitors often praise the friendly and attentive service, which enhances the relaxed vibe of the space, especially on the outdoor veranda-terrace, perfect for enjoying milder Finnish evenings.

culinary delights with a mediterranean twist

The menu at Restaurant Elm showcases Mediterranean flavors thoughtfully prepared with an emphasis on seasonality and sustainability, making it a haven for foodies eager to explore refined and responsibly sourced dishes. Signature starters such as grilled octopus and beef tartare receive consistent acclaim for their taste and presentation, with mains like braised beef in red wine and fresh catch of the day offering tender and flavorful options. Vegetarian diners also find satisfying choices that highlight vibrant ingredients and expert culinary technique.
However, some guests have pointed out inconsistencies in flavor execution and varied portion sizes, which suggest that experiences may differ depending on the dish and timing of the visit.

atmosphere and amenities

Restaurant Elm’s ambiance is frequently highlighted for its cozy and welcoming vibe, enhanced by dim lighting indoors and the option to dine outside on the terrace during warmer months. The historic architecture contributes a unique bohemian charm that complements the sophisticated food and attentive service. The restaurant is well-equipped for groups, families, and offers a children’s menu, making it a versatile choice for various occasions. Additionally, the establishment accommodates guests who bring dogs and has convenient payment options including NFC and credit cards.
  • Pros : Beautifully restored 19th-century villa, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, friendly and attentive service, outdoor veranda seating, focus on seasonality and sustainability.
  • Cons : Mixed reviews on food quality, some concerns about portion sizes, inconsistencies in flavor execution.

4.3

Finnish, Mediterranean

$$$

Closed - Opens 11:30 AM

Monday

11:30–22:30

Tuesday

11:30–22:30

Wednesday

11:30–22:30

Thursday

11:30–22:30

Friday

11:30–23:00

Saturday

13:00–23:00

Sunday

Closed

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Comments

Super pleasant dining experience in an old manor by the Kaivopuisto park. Offers set menu or a la carte dining. Make sure to book in advance. Dogs are welcome!

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