Best Places to Eat in Rovaniemi

Discovering the Flavors of Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, offers a delightful culinary experience that will warm your heart and belly. While it may not be a bustling metropolis, this Finnish city has a surprising number of excellent eateries serving traditional Lappish cuisine with a modern twist. Here are the best places to eat in Rovaniemi, including popular street food options:

Street Food

1. Kauppahalli Market Hall

Located in the heart of Rovaniemi, Kauppahalli is a bustling market hall offering an array of street food stalls serving traditional Finnish and Lappish delicacies.

  • Must-try: Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasties) filled with rye flour, potatoes, and carrots.
  • Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 9am-4pm

2. Rovaniemi Market

This outdoor market is a great place to sample local flavors and mingle with the locals.

  • Must-try: Salmiakki (salty licorice) and Finnish Fish Soup
  • Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 9am-4pm

Restaurants

1. Ravintola Pallas

This cozy restaurant serves modern Lappish cuisine using local ingredients.

  • Must-try: Reindeer Stew and Cloudberry Cream for dessert
  • Address: Pekankatu 2, 96200 Rovaniemi
  • Opening hours: Mon-Thu 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 12pm-9pm

2. Santapallas

Located near the Arctic Circle, this restaurant offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.

  • Must-try: Lappish Fish Soup and Reindeer Sausages
  • Address: Tarvantie 3, 96930 Rovaniemi
  • Opening hours: Mon-Sun 11am-10pm

3. Café & Restaurant 1935

This charming café serves traditional Finnish coffee and pastry culture.

  • Must-try: Finnish Cinnamon Buns and Coffee with a side of Salty Licorice
  • Address: Koskikatu 4, 96200 Rovaniemi
  • Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 9am-4pm

Tips and Insights

  • Be prepared for the cold climate by dressing warmly and enjoying hearty, warming dishes.
  • Try to visit during the summer months (June-August) when the sun stays up late, offering a unique dining experience.
  • Don’t forget to pair your meals with a glass of Finnish Long Drink (a refreshing beverage made from grapefruit soda and gin).

Rovaniemi’s culinary scene may be small, but it packs a big punch. From traditional Lappish dishes to modern twists on Finnish classics, there’s something for every palate. So come hungry, and get ready to indulge in the flavors of Rovaniemi!