Cuisine of Finland

Finland food

One of the best things about travelling to a new country is getting to try the local food and experiencing new tastes and dishes.

Here we explore what Lapland in Finland has to offer when it comes to traditional (but also tasty) cuisine.

Finland traditional foods

If you want to try some true traditional food items of Lapland, then these are our top choices to give a go whilst visiting.

Poronkäristys - this is a Finish dish that originated in Lapland. This dish is made with Reindeer meat and is traditionally prepared by cooking thin slices of the meat slowly in butter and onions. Often served with mashed potato, a warm winter favourite of the locals.

Salmon - salmon is a classic favourite in Lapland due to the abundance of the fish found in the rivers of Finland. The locals eat it grilled, fried, wrapped in pastry or smoked. If you are a fan, then it is a must try whilst you are visiting.

Berries - native berries, such as cloudberries, which only grow at high-altitude and therefore can be found almost everywhere in the woodlands of Lapland are added to many sweet dishes and are a firm favourite of the locals. They even add these berries to a hot drink to make a warming and delicious beverage after a day out in the snow.

Karelian pasty - this is the Finish version of a pie so will be loved by all who try it. Usually filled with rice or mashed potato, it is warm and filling.

Authentic Finnish food

If you are travelling with children or just a big fan of comfort food, then don’t worry - Lapland offers plenty of tasty Finnish dishes that are always crowd pleasers.

Potatoes - they love potatoes in Lapland, be them mashed, boiled or fried into chips, there are endless ways the locals will reinvent the potato to be added to a dish. You will always be full if you add an order of potatoes to your dinner, in whichever style you fancy.

Leipäjuusto - or ‘squeaky cheese’ as it is often called. If you are a fan of Halloumi, then you will like Leipäjuusto. Served slightly grilled and warm, the locals will advise you to dip it in your coffee but it can easily be enjoyed with some bread or salad.

Gáhkku - which is basically bread made by the indigenous Sami people of Lapland which has now become a staple in most Lappish families' lives. A flat bread that is served warm and offered alongside cheese, meat, fish or just some butter. It is chewy, smoky and delicious.

Korvapuusti - is essentially a cinnamon roll, which is a much loved pastry you’ll find in the UK as well. Ideal for breakfast, to go with your mid-morning coffee or an afternoon pick me up snack.

Lapland food

Here are some top rated places to eat depending on what resort you are visiting or staying at when on holiday in Lapland.

Levi resort - The best place to eat in Levi if you are looking for family friendly, children approved is Koti Pizza. They are so welcoming of children at all ages and offer all your classic dishes - ensuring everyone is happy.

Yllas resort - Enjoy a high-end dining experience, perfect for couples at Resturant Poro (only open during select times of the year). They pride themselves in locally sourced produce for their dishes.

Saariselka resort - Anne’s Garden and Grill is a great place to meet friends for lunch. It is open, spacious and serves a variety of dishes to please all.

Muoino resort - Restaurant Tunturiporo is the perfect place if you are looking to sample local, traditional dishes - offering a selection of reindeer based plates to classic Lapland soups.

*These eateries were all open at the time this item was created in 2024.