Olo

Olo is an elegant yet relaxed fine‑dining restaurant in the heart of Helsinki, next to Market Square, housed in a 200‑year‑old building. The kitchen bases its philosophy on seasonal, high‑quality northern ingredients and combines traditional Finnish food culture with modern techniques into inventive, multi‑layered tasting menus. The team emphasizes careful sourcing: foie gras and poultry are domestic, kuusipeura is sourced from Sweden, and many alcohol‑free drinks are prepared in‑house. Olo has held a Michelin star since 2011 and pairs meticulous cooking with a carefully selected wine list and warm, attentive service. Two principal tasting menus, including a Seasonal/Selected option, are offered with optional wine or non‑alcoholic pairings; private dining, tailored menus for groups and weddings, and the covered courtyard event space Garden by Olo are available. The dining room is beautiful and warmly served—elegant without stiffness—with a refined yet enjoyably laid‑back vibe; intimate private rooms and a covered piazza‑like courtyard accommodate larger events. Cooking focuses on northern, seasonal produce, blending Finnish tradition and modern technique into thoughtful, balanced tasting menus; dishes are strong and recognizable, yet delicate and fresh, with precise flavour combinations. Head Chef Mikko Pakola leads the kitchen; the team draws inspiration primarily from Nordic nature and seasonal produce. Specialties include cold‑smoked salmon with citrus; Greenland prawns with crispbread; kombu‑seasoned egg custard with grilled celeriac and winter truffle; pan‑fried scallop with sunflower‑seed miso and shellfish broth; lobster with squash and yuzu‑kosho; and desserts featuring milk chocolate, vanilla and Oolong tea.