Pori, a charming city on Finland’s west coast, is renowned for its vibrant jazz festivals and scenic beaches. Yet, beyond its well-trodden paths lie culinary treasures—intimate, family-run restaurants nestled in quiet alleys, offering authentic Finnish home-style dishes. These hidden gems provide not just meals but heartfelt experiences that linger in memory.
1. Ravintola Merimesta: Seaside Elegance in Reposaari
Address: Sipintie 1, 28900 Pori, Finland
Tucked away on the idyllic island of Reposaari, just a 30-minute drive from Pori’s city center, Ravintola Merimesta is a hidden gem for food lovers who seek a true coastal Finnish experience. Surrounded by the lapping waves of the Baltic Sea and charming wooden villas, the setting alone is worth the visit. As soon as I stepped inside, I was enveloped in an atmosphere of understated sophistication—think soft lighting, nautical-inspired décor, and the aroma of fresh seafood wafting from the kitchen.
The menu is a delightful showcase of Finnish culinary craftsmanship, with a particular focus on locally sourced seafood. The star of the show is undoubtedly the freshly caught Baltic herring, served pan-fried and accompanied by velvety mashed potatoes, pickled cucumber, and a rich brown butter sauce. This dish captures the essence of Finnish coastal cuisine: simple, honest, and deeply satisfying.
Another standout was their creamy fish soup, packed with salmon and whitefish, seasoned with dill and a hint of allspice—perfect for a chilly evening by the sea.
The average cost of a meal, including a glass of wine or a local craft beer, runs between €30 and €50 per person, which feels justified given the quality of ingredients and the breathtaking views from the dining room.
Reservation Tips: Merimesta is popular among locals and travelers alike, especially during summer and holidays. Booking in advance is strongly recommended. You can make reservations by emailing [email protected] or calling ahead. For the best views, request a table by the window during sunset—it’s an unforgettable experience.
If you’re using a booking platform like TripAdvisor or TableOnline.fi, check for special offers or seasonal tasting menus for added value.
2. Panimoravintola Beer Hunter’s: A Fusion of Brews and Bites
Address: Antinkatu 11, 28100 Pori, Finland (TripAdvisor)
Nestled in one of Pori’s bustling downtown streets, Panimoravintola Beer Hunter’s is far more than just a restaurant—it’s a cornerstone of local culture and craft brewing. Since its founding in 1998, this beloved eatery has combined rich Finnish flavors with artisanal brewing, earning a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
What makes Beer Hunter’s so exceptional is its dual identity as both a microbrewery and distillery. It’s the proud home of Mufloni beers, a collection of award-winning craft brews with flavors ranging from classic lagers to robust IPAs. It also houses Old Buck, Finland’s first-ever single malt whisky, which has achieved international acclaim. Sitting at a wooden table surrounded by copper brew kettles and the soft hum of conversation, I felt like I was part of something uniquely Finnish and deeply personal.
The food menu is rooted in Finnish tradition, designed to complement the beverages. The must-try dish here is the reindeer stew—slow-cooked to tenderness and served with buttery mashed potatoes, a drizzle of game gravy, and a spoonful of lingonberry jam that adds a tart contrast to the rich meat. It’s a dish that’s both rustic and comforting, evoking the warmth of a Finnish cabin in winter.
If you’re in the mood for something more casual, their house-made sausages served with craft beer mustard and dark rye bread are equally popular and perfect for sharing. The desserts, like cloudberry cheesecake or dark beer ice cream, are unexpected delights that tie the experience together.
Price Range: Expect to spend between €25 and €40 per person, depending on whether you’re indulging in a full meal and drinks. Beer flights and whisky tastings are available for those wanting to sample a wider range of flavors.
Reservation Tips: While walk-ins are common and welcome, the place tends to fill up quickly during weekends, events, and especially during the Pori Jazz Festival in July. It’s best to reserve a table through their website or by calling ahead. You can also book through platforms like TableOnline.fi for occasional discounts or set menus.
Beer Hunter’s isn’t just a meal—it’s a taste of Finnish craftsmanship, community, and care, all under one roof.
3. Pizzeria Nuåvo: Artisanal Pizzas with a Finnish Twist
Address: Antinkatu 14, 28100 Pori, Finland
In the heart of Pori, just a short stroll from the bustling pedestrian streets, lies a small yet unforgettable eatery—Pizzeria Nuåvo. Don’t let its modest exterior fool you; once inside, you’re greeted with a warm, rustic ambiance, flickering candlelight, and the inviting aroma of freshly baked dough mingling with herbs and melted cheese.
What truly sets Pizzeria Nuåvo apart is its creative fusion of Italian technique with quintessentially Finnish flavors. The owners, a young Finnish couple passionate about both tradition and experimentation, source local, organic ingredients and prepare everything by hand—from the sourdough crusts fermented for 48 hours, to the house-made sauces and foraged mushroom toppings.
The must-try dish here is the Salmon and Dill Pizza—a thin, crispy crust topped with cured Finnish salmon, a creamy horseradish base, tangy red onions, fresh dill, and a drizzle of lemon-infused crème fraîche. It’s an elegant reinterpretation of Finnish gravlax in pizza form, both familiar and boldly original.
Another surprise hit is the Reindeer & Wild Mushroom Pizza, which combines smoked reindeer meat, chanterelles, and juniper berries—a hearty, forest-flavored treat that I couldn’t get enough of. They also offer vegetarian options, such as beetroot and goat cheese with honey, that are equally well-balanced and satisfying.
Price Range: Dining at Nuåvo is affordable without sacrificing quality. Most pizzas range from €15 to €25, with small starters or desserts like sea buckthorn sorbet or lingonberry panna cotta available for an additional €5–€8. If you opt for a craft beer or organic Finnish cider, expect to add €6–€8 to your bill.
Reservation Tips: Seating is limited—just a dozen or so tables—so weekend reservations are a must. On weekdays, you might luck into a table without booking, but it’s still smart to call ahead or use TableOnline.fi for convenience. Occasionally, they post last-minute table openings and pizza-of-the-day deals on their Instagram, so give them a follow if you’re planning a visit.
Pizzeria Nuåvo is a great example of how Finnish ingredients and international techniques can harmonize beautifully. It’s not just pizza—it’s a story on a plate, and it’s one I’m eager to return for.
4. Cafe Anton: Homely Vibes and Hearty Meals
Address: Antinkatu 11, 28100 Pori, Finland
Tucked away in Pori’s charming town center, Cafe Anton is an absolute gem that offers more than just a meal—it’s an experience that feels like a home away from home. The warm, cozy atmosphere, complete with wooden beams, soft lighting, and vintage furniture, immediately makes you feel at ease. Whether you’re popping in for a quick coffee or sitting down for a leisurely dinner, the homey vibes are always present, creating a perfect setting for enjoying a traditional Finnish meal.
One of the things that makes Cafe Anton so special is its commitment to serving hearty, authentic Finnish comfort food, using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The must-try dish here is the classic Finnish meatballs—tender and flavorful, they’re served with a generous portion of creamy mashed potatoes, a side of lingonberry jam, and a rich brown gravy. It’s the ultimate comfort food, simple yet satisfying, and a true taste of Finnish culinary tradition.
Along with the meatballs, I also recommend trying their Karelian pasty, a flaky pastry filled with rice porridge and topped with egg butter—a Finnish snack that’s both comforting and delicious.
Price Range: Expect to pay €20–€35 per person, which includes a hearty meal and possibly a coffee or dessert. The prices are very reasonable, especially considering the quality of the food and the warm ambiance.
Reservation Tips: While walk-ins are usually welcome, weekend nights with live music can get busy, so it’s wise to book in advance. Reservations can be made via phone or by checking out their Facebook page for event details. If you’re a fan of live music, it’s worth reserving ahead for the weekends to ensure a good spot.
5. Ravintola Andalucia: A Touch of Spain in Pori
Address: Pohjoispuisto 4, 28100 Pori, Finland
While primarily offering Spanish cuisine, Ravintola Andalucia incorporates Finnish ingredients, creating a delightful fusion. The romantic setting, complete with a fireplace, makes it ideal for intimate dinners.
Must-Try Dish: Blue cheese-covered beef tenderloin served with red wine sauce and garlic potatoes.
Price Range: Approximately €35–€60 per person.
Reservation Tips: Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service.
Booking and Dining Tips in Finland:
- Reservations: While many Finnish restaurants welcome walk-ins, making a reservation ensures a seamless dining experience, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Dining Etiquette: Finns value punctuality. Arriving on time for your reservation is appreciated.
- Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Finland, as service charges are included. However, leaving a small tip for exceptional service is a kind gesture.
- Dietary Preferences: Finnish restaurants are accommodating to dietary needs. It’s advisable to inform the staff of any restrictions when ordering.
Recommended Platforms for Travel Planning in Finland:
- Accommodation: Booking.com, Hotels.com
- Flights: Skyscanner, Finnair
- Dining Reservations: Quandoo, TripAdvisor
- Local Experiences: Visit Pori
Exploring Pori’s hidden culinary spots offers a unique glimpse into Finnish culture and hospitality. Each establishment, with its distinct charm and flavors, contributes to the rich tapestry of experiences awaiting travelers in this coastal city.
