Who doesn’t want a nice meal? Not you and me, certainly not when travelling to a new location. For us, the new location today is Rovaniems. They say if you want to get a taste of their culture, get a taste of their food. Rovaniemi’s cuisine reflects its northern location and cultural influence.
It is known for its traditional dishes reflecting the Sami culture and the modern cuisine offering a wide range of international blended with local dishes. Many dining spots in Rovaniemi would cater to your unique tastes, but we have only collected the best-rated and the most visited ones today.
Where to Eat in Rovaniemi?
The best restaurants in Rovaniemi, Lapland, are mainly located close to major attractions, along the river, or in the city centre. Whether you are craving foreign flavours or traditional Lappish food, Rovaniemi has a wide range of eating experiences to suit all palates, from elegant dining establishments to quaint cafés.
Did you know that the most eaten food in Rovaniemi is reindeer meat served with mashed potatoes? Also, the lingonberry jam is a chef’s kiss.
Let’s discover the best restaurants for you now.
Best Restaurants in Rovaniemi
Cosy cafes and fresh bakeries are Rovaniemi’s pride; you can confirm if you have ever visited. Numerous cafes serve different Rovaniemi event tastes throughout Roxactly; many visitors stop by after riding a husky in Rovaniemi, so we are beginning with the best cafes so you can have the most out of your trip.
Best Cafes & Bakeries
The best spots you can try fresh bakery and food at include,
1. Cafe & Bar 21
Café & Bar 21 is loved for its delightful combination of savory-sweet waffles, fresh salad bowls, artisanal ice cream made from scratch, and delicious pastries. This Café is known for its wide variety of foods. Its most popular items include tasty waffles, healthy salad bowls, pastries, and special ice cream.
The business also operates as a wine bar, which is not suitable for those seeking strictly halal dining. Vegan Options are available. Moreover, Lactose and gluten-free options are also available. This cafe is located at Rovakatu 21, 96200 Rovaniemi, Finland. The operational hours are:
Parking can be quite challenging in this area, especially if you are stopping by. However, there are options for paid street parking available.
2. Hanki
Craving an authentic Korean meal? You won’t want to miss HANKI! This cosy spot serves delicious Korean cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere. What’s cool is that you can scan a QR code to watch a video of your chosen dish. With a talented chef from Korea bringing traditional flavours to the table, every bite you take feels special.
HANKI welcomes walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis, so you can pop in anytime and enjoy a great meal. The prices are reasonable, and the food is tasty and generously portioned. The staff is friendly and helpful, making the experience even better.
Vegan options are available. Other facilities include free wifi and on-site parking. Hanki is a Korean restaurant with locations in Rovaniemi and Kuusamo, Finland. Their payment methods include cash and credit cards. The opening hours are from 11 AM to 9 PM Monday through Friday and from 12 PM to 9 PM Saturday and Sunday.
Cozy and Casual Dining
Rovaniemi restaurants are known for their premium settings, cozy touches, and exquisite dining experiences. We have a list of 5 such spots that will leave you feeling only one thing: SATISFACTION.
The first one on the list,
3. Roka Street Bistro
Based on the fantastic food culture in the USA and Italy, Roka Street Bistro is a lovely place where we love to dine with our guests. They only have a seating range of up to 25, so reservations would be ideal. Their bistro-style & street food dishes are made using the best ingredients and traditional flavours.
Popular appetizers like tasty salmon mousse and flavorful reindeer sausages can impress any guest. My favourite, Salmon Mousse, is creamy and packed with rich flavours, making it perfect for any occasion.
Many visitors enjoy these dishes while wondering when it snows in Rovaniemi, as the snowy season adds to the cozy dining atmosphere. Do not miss out on the Reindeer sausages, which are seasoned with herbs and spices to enhance their delicious taste.
All of their dishes are gluten-free and lactose-free. Just contact the staff, and they will be happy to assist you.
4. Kauppayhtiö (Known for Reindeer Burgers and Salami Pizzas)
Located at Valtakatu 24, Rovaniemi 96200, Finland, this place focuses on American dishes and street foods and also caters to vegetarians. It is a nice, laid-back spot with tasty food, good pizzas and burgers, extremely nice staff, and a cosy vibe.
Reindeer burger and salami pizza are their specialty. So do not even think about missing out on them. The pizza and burger sections have separate ordering and pricing, but they are linked inside so you can get food from either part. They go by different names, but it’s all in one place.
You can also check out the OIVA report on their website, which shows consumers the results of food safety inspections carried out by authorities my favourite feature. Are reservations required? Nope, they do not take reservations.
Gluten-free options are available inform them beforehand to avoid any inconvenience and yes free street parking is available around the restaurant. They take Credit Cards(American Express, Visa, and Master cards) and cash. Free Wi-Fi is also available on the site.
5. Santa’s Salmon Place (Best Grilled SALMON)
Santa’s Salmon Place is all about original Lappish cuisine and atmosphere. Santa’s Salmon Place in Rovaniemi is renowned for dishing out some of the world’s finest salmon. People talk widely about its amazing flavour and cosy vibe.
The restaurant’s main dish is grilled salmon with a touch of seasoning. This makes their salmon stand out because it is free from additives and special treatments.
Santa’s Salmon Place’s staff makes you feel at home with their friendly smiles and warm welcome. One of the best things about this restaurant is that they understand how important our furry friends are to us; dogs are welcome.
So, you can enjoy a delicious meal while keeping your pup by your side and sharing the experience. Opening hours: 11 AM till 9 PM; since opening hours may vary, checking their social media accounts before you plan your trip is a good idea.
Takeout, Outdoor Seating, and Parking are Available. The restaurant accepts credit cards, offers table service, and uses high-quality salt.
6. Rosso Rovaniemi (authentic Italian food)
Located in the heart of Rovaniemi, Rosso Restaurant welcomes you with all their heart. This beloved Italian cuisine-based restaurant has been a go-to spot for locals looking for a cosy place to chill, relax, and enjoy delicious food, especially during the best time to visit Rovaniemi when visitors are buzzing.
Rosso offers a mix of Italian, Mediterranean, and European cuisines, with a menu that includes everything. Their pizzas are famous across Finland for their taste and variety. What makes Rosso different is its ambience- the atmosphere; it’s where everyone feels at home.
Their priority is making dining accessible for everyone; therefore, they offer gluten-free versions of many pizzas, pasta dishes, and high-fiber crusts. At Rosso Restaurant in Rovaniemi, some of the most popular dishes include:
- Pasta with Shrimps.
- Salmon with Mashed Potatoes
- Broileri Vuohenjuusto Pizza
- Chicken with Goat Cheese
- Chicken and Blue Cheese Pasta
- Beef Steak
The restaurant also offers a wide range of salads and thick hot chocolate for desserts, which enhances the dining experience. Takeout service is available. The restaurant accepts reservations and welcomes walk-ins. They accept credit cards and cash as payment.
7. Amarillo Rovaniemi
This restaurant/bar offers Mexican cuisine, best for those who want to try Mexican dishes. The dishes on Amarillo’s menu are designed to share and reflect their passion for group dining and a pleasant dining environment.
Enjoy a fresh taco set as a personal meal, or share it with someone you know. Their coal-fired barbecue treats and fabulous burgers completely the use they provide satisfaction. This restaurant is recognized for accommodating families with a varied menu and kid-friendly options.
Texan Chicken and beef tacos and salmon with shrimp are customers’ most complemented food items. This restaurant is appreciated for its vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free options. They also accept reservations. With their Osuuskauppa Arina lunch pass, you get every 12th lunch free of charge.
Fine Dining Restaurants
For those looking for the finest experience, this list is for you.
8. Arctic Restaurant (Known for authentic Lappish Cuisine)
Inside the Arctic Light Hotel, Arctic Restaurant can be found at Valtakatu 18, 96200, Rovaniemi. It is just a short walk from the city centre, around 0.2 miles or 300 meters. If you are coming by car, you are a lucky customer as they have their parking facility, which can be accessed via Aallonkatu 1.
Beware that the parking is first come, first served, and if it is occupied, you can park your vehicle in the nearby paid parking around the hotel. However, you can still get a permit at the reception to park your car at an additional free parking spot located 200 meters away.
Are pets allowed? Yes, pets are allowed, but the policy regarding pets is variable, so it’s always best to call ahead and confirm yourself. The Arctic Restaurant offers authentic Lappish cuisine, where pure northern nature is the main ingredient.
You can expect high-quality reindeer, moose, salmon, arctic char, king crab, and Finnish beef, all often prepared with a little flourish and none likely to be forgotten.
9. Mc Donald’s Rovaniemi (Known as the World’s Northernmost Mcdonald’s)
However, the Mc McDonald’s at Rovaniemi Lampela is distinctive in the way that it offers Arctic-themed design elements, including Lappish menu items unavailable at their other US-based locations, like a reindeer burger and hot lingonberry drinks inspired by Lappish cuisine.
This is exactly why we added it to this list. Approximately 2.1 kilometres from the city centre, It is located at Poromiehentie 3, 96200 in Rovaniemi.
A free off-street parking is available. Other facilities include outdoor seating, a play area and even a playground. So, for its ideal location near the Arctic Circle and its unique blend of contemporary and local cuisines, why not try to share your experience with us?
10. Nili Restaurant (Famous for Authentic Lappish Cuisine)
Famous for serving genuine Lappish food, Restaurant Nili is situated in Valtakatu 20, 96200 Rovaniemi, Finland. It uses only pure and fresh ingredients for its dishes.
There is no on-site parking. However, alternatives are located nearby. You can use the free public parking at Ratakatu 3 in the city centre, 24 hours a day. Are pets allowed? The best course of action is to call and confirm, as no pet policy is available.
Try their warm-smoked pike dish if you ever go. It is a must-try, trust me. Can you book in advance? Reservations are recommended as the place gets crowded easily due to the high customer base.
11. Ravintola Monte Rosa (Popular for steaks)
For a reason, Ravintola is among the best restaurants in Rovaniemi, Lapland. This restaurant was established around 30 years ago and now enjoys the reputation of being the best steakhouse out at Rovaniemi.
Their menu includes various options, from classical to modern recipes worldwide. I loved this place for its exceptionally calm and cosy setup. Free parking nearby lets you park your vehicle on a first-come, first-serve rule.
So, if you seek a memorable dining experience with your loved ones at Rovaniemi, this is your place to try!
Their lunch hours are Mon – Fri 11 am—2 pm, and their dinner hours are Mon-Sun 5 pm—11 pm (kitchen 10:30pm). Have a great dining experience.
12. Santamus
Have you ever seen a restaurant illuminated by an open fire? How aesthetic! It’s totally my type. Santamus reminds me of the “golden hour.” It is a popular Lapland-themed restaurant located at Joulumaantie 8, 96930 Rovaniemi, Finland, within the Santa Claus Village on the Arctic Circle.
How far is it from the city centre? It is around 8 kilometres if there is no traffic. It’s a short drive there. Santa Claus Village has numerous free and paid parking spots, so you won’t have to worry about parking your vehicle if the on-site one is full.
Unfortunately, your little pup is not allowed on the premises. It’s in their pet policy, but they may allow it in exceptional cases. Their menu offers everything you will be craving at that hour, from mouthwatering appetizers and desserts to freshly cooked main courses. I loved their Pasta Bolognese.
So, what are you waiting for?
13. Gustav Kitchen & Bar (Famous for its Fusion of European and Scandinavian Cuisine)
This restaurant specializes in mixing the European menu with that of Scandinavia. It is very popular for its Beef tartare, knut bread, Whitefish Ceviche, and Crispy Tofu. It is located at Koskikatu 12, 96200 Rovaniemi, Finland, a short walk from the centre.
If you are going by car, free street parking is available. Pets are not directly welcomed. But on request, pets are allowed.
Other facilities include a 24-hour gym, luggage handling, babysitting, a sauna for relaxation, and around 57 rooms for accommodation.
Must Try Dishes in Rovaniemi
There is so much to try in Rovaniemi that your trip days will not cover much. However, there are certain things you cannot afford to miss.
One of them? The local cuisine. There are dishes so essential to the Rovaniemi experience that skipping them would be nothing short of a crime!
1. Reindeer Steak & Stew
Reindeer Steak and stew hold not only traditional but cultural significance, too. Reindeer were a crucial part of life for the early natives, used for food, clothing, and other useful materials.
Reindeer steak and reindeer stew are considered a luxury and delicacy at Rovaniemi. They are prepared by highly work-focused, experienced chefs who love serving you.
The reindeer steak is served with lingonberry sauce and root vegetables to include both a savoury and sweet taste.
Similarly, Reindeer stew is served with mashed potatoes and rich gravies. Trying these dishes enables visitors to connect to Lapland’s cultural heritage.
2. Salmon Soup
Salmon soup, often regarded as Lohikietto in Finland, is another traditionally and culturally important dish. It is very popular there because Rovaniemi is abundant in sea animals and fish. People love this soup both indoors and outdoors.
Soup is usually made with fresh salmon, leeks, potatoes, and carrots, simmered in a rich, creamy broth delicately flavoured with dill and sometimes a bit of lemon. You should try it not because it is good but because it will give you a taste of the local culture.
3. Lingonberry and Cloudberry Desserts
Lingonberry sauces and jams are paired with reindeer steaks. They are complimentary food items, so trying to get the most out of your steak with lingonberry sauce will get you to the essence of the meal.
Both lingonberries and cloudberries hold traditional importance in Rovaniemi. Cloudberries are golden in colour and are served with ice cream.
Trying the lingonberries and cloudberries will connect you to the land and Lapland’s traditions.
4. Finnish Cinnamon Buns
Known as korvapuusti, cinnamon buns are very popular in Rovaniemi. They are considered a must with coffee when visiting there. The traditional icing on cinnamon buns in Finland is skipped and topped with pearl sugar.
Many tourists in Rovaniemi find that sampling a freshly made cinnamon bun provides a lovely, genuine flavour of Finnish culture. Every time, the silky dough packed with cinnamon and butter makes your mouth wet.
Best Restaurants at Rovaniemi FAQs
What is the traditional dish of Rovaniemi?
Reindeer steak and stew and fresh Salmon are Rovaniemi’s top traditional dishes. These dishes reflect the indigenous Sami people’s taste in cuisine and are highly culturally important.
What is the best time to visit a restaurant in Rovaniemi?
The best time to visit a restaurant in Rovaniemi is between 5 and 7 PM. That’s when the places are usually not crowded enough.
Is it necessary to book a table in Rovaniemi in advance?
No. It is up to you. If you can wait, do not reserve in advance; if you can’t wait, reserve in advance. However, some restaurants require you to book a table beforehand, so it is best to call and confirm beforehand.
Conclusion
In this article, we discover the best-rated restaurants in Rovaniemi that guarantee a great dining experience with your loved ones. We see what each restaurant specialises in and what facilities they offer.
In the last part, we discussed some must-try dishes in Rovaniemi. These include the famous Salmon soup, Reindeer steak and stew, and lingonberry jam.
If you feel we are missing out on something, do not hesitate to share to share it with us. Thank you for reading. Wishing you a delicious dining experience at Rovaniemi!
