Best Restaurants in Tallinn

Old Town

Old Town is packed with cozy, candlelit restaurants and medieval charm, but it’s also the most tourist-trapped. Look for places tucked behind the main squares like Town Hall Square and Raekoja Plats. Expect €20-40 for dinner, and go for lunch to avoid the crowds and inflated prices.

Kalamaja

Kalamaja has a bohemian vibe and some of the best coffee and casual dining in the city. Street art, secondhand shops, and open-air cafes line the cobblestone streets. The food is modern and inventive, with €18-28 mains and excellent vegetarian options.

Telliskivi

Telliskivi is the artsy, industrial district with a food scene that leans toward trendy and international. Here, you’ll find craft beer halls, burger spots, and fusion eats. Prices are mid-range, and the best time to come is on a weekend night for a lively crowd.

Kadriorg

Kadriorg is the most upscale dining area, home to elegant restaurants with views of the park or palace. Expect a more refined menu and higher prices—budget at least €40-60 per person for dinner. It’s perfect for a special night out.

What Should You Eat in Tallinn?

Black bread is a must—thick, rye-heavy, and usually served with butter and cheese. You’ll find the best versions in Kalamaja or Telliskivi.

Soljanka soup is a hearty, sour soup with pork, pickles, and sour cream. Look for it in Old Town for around €10-12.

Smoked eel is a local delicacy, often grilled and served with dill and sour cream. Try it in Kadriorg for a splurge of €18-25.

Borscht is a staple, and Tallinn’s versions are rich with beets, potatoes, and dill. A good bowl costs around €8-10 at the markets.

Pierogi (or varelang) are Estonian dumplings filled with meat, cheese, or mushrooms. You’ll find them at local markets for €5-8.

Kama is a smoked, cured fish dish, often served cold. It’s a favorite in Old Town and sells for €12-16 per portion.

Blood sausage is a traditional Estonian dish, usually served with mustard and black bread. Try it at a local market for €6-8.

Makaronid is a sweet Estonian pasta dish with sugar and cinnamon. It’s a great dessert for €4-6 in casual spots.

Pickled herring is a common starter, often served with onions and potatoes. You can find it for €6-10 in Old Town.

Rye whiskey (võtik) is a local spirit—order a glass to taste the real Estonia for €8-12.

Budget Guide: How Much Does Food Cost in Tallinn?

|------|-----|-----|

How Do You Navigate Restaurants in Tallinn?

Reservations are helpful for Kadriorg and Old Town restaurants on weekends. In Kalamaja and Telliskivi, you can walk in most nights.

Lunch is always better value—most restaurants offer €10-15 set menus, and portions are generous.

Tipping is not required, but 5-10% is common if service is good.

Avoid the restaurants around Town Hall Square—they’re convenient but overpriced.

The Telliskivi Food Hall is a great spot for street-style eats, with fresh seafood, burgers, and craft beer.

Is Tallinn Worth Visiting for the Food?

Yes, Tallinn is a great food city, especially for those who enjoy bold flavors, local traditions, and a mix of old and new. It’s perfect for travelers who want to eat where locals eat, without breaking the bank. The only real disappointment is the tourist-heavy Old Town, where prices jump and quality drops.

Plan Your Tallinn Trip

About · Contact · Editorial Policy · How We Make Money