Finland holds the title for the highest per capita coffee consumption in the world, with the average Finn drinking nearly four cups a day. As a heavy coffee drinker, visiting cafés in Finland is a must because if there’s one place that knows how to serve coffee best, it’s here.

Since moving to Finland, my love for cafés has grown even more, and with it, my coffee exploration in Helsinki has expanded. This curiosity kicked into high gear last year when Helsinki Coffee Week introduced a fun challenge: customers could collect stamps from participating cafés, and one lucky winner would receive over 100 cups of coffee. Naturally, that gave me an extra push to explore new spots. And through that experience, I discovered a few cafés that perfectly match my taste.

So, here are my favorite cafés in Helsinki!

1. Andante

A café with a distinctive interior, Andante blends Finnish charm with an eclectic mix of design elements. Marimekko patterns, which is a true Finnish icon, are woven into their concept, from mugs and wall decorations to lampshades. The space itself is a mix of carefully curated secondhand furniture, with mismatched chairs, tables, and decorations that create a cozy yet unique atmosphere.

But of course, the real highlight is the coffee. They serve an exceptionally smooth cup, with a mild and well-balanced flavor profile that lingers pleasantly. The moment it touches your tongue, you’ll notice the velvety sensation, making each sip an experience. And if you appreciate aesthetics, their beautifully crafted latte art adds an extra touch of delight.

To complete the café experience, Andante offers a top-tier selection of desserts. Their regular lineup includes classics like Basque cheesecake, matcha tiramisu, and caramel brownies. Matcha tiramisu is my favorite, btw. But what truly sets them apart is their rotating weekend specials. Sometimes featuring creative treats like Yuzu Swan.

Finland has a strong tradition of seasonal desserts, and Andante embraces this with its own innovative twist. Take Laskiaispulla, for example, a seasonal pastry made of a soft, cardamom-spiced wheat bun filled with almond paste and whipped cream, then dusted with powdered sugar. While the classic version is widely available in local cafes and supermarkets, Andante experiments with unique variations throughout the week. One week, you might find options like Black Sesame Miso Pulla or Hojicha Pulla, while another brings a Valentine’s special: Rose and Lychee Semla.

Whether you try their regular desserts or a seasonal special, everything is made with care and creativity that no matter what you choose, they are out of this world. If you ever visit Helsinki, stopping by Andante is a great way to experience local flavors with a modern, fusion-style twist.

2. Cafetoria

Tucked near one of Helsinki’s most famous landmarks, the Temppeliaukio Church, Cafetoria is a must-visit for coffee lovers. Not only do they serve an excellent cup, but they also offer a diverse selection of coffee beans that perfect for souvenirs, gifts, or simply treating yourself to high-quality coffee at home.

Last year, I came across their unique Advent Calendar, and it instantly impressed me. Unlike the traditional ones you open daily before Christmas, this was an after Advent Calendar, designed to be enjoyed after Christmas, leading up to the New Year. Inside the box were seven different coffee beans, one for each day, letting you savor a new flavor with every cup. Imagine stepping into the new year with a different coffee experience each morning. Each one distinct, leaving a lasting impression with every sip. It was such a pleasure to discover, and it reaffirmed what I already knew: no matter which beans you choose at Cafetoria, you won’t be disappointed.

If you find yourself hungry after visiting Temppeliaukio Church, their café is the perfect spot to warm up with a delicious sandwich. The interior, painted in green, minty tones, with a touch of soft pink, has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that wraps you in warmth, both inside and out.

3. Sävy Kahvila

Just a short walk from Sörnäinen Metro Station, Sävy Kahvila is always lively whenever I visit. It’s a popular spot, often crowded, and getting a seat by the window feels like a special treat. If you’re lucky enough to get one, you’ll find yourself surrounded by interesting books. Many books are about coffee, but there are others from different genres too. One Saturday, I had a great time there, enjoying my coffee and reading a book by James Hoffman. It was a perfect way to spend the day.

Even though Sävy ranks third among Helsinki’s best cafés, I didn’t have high expectations on my first visit (because I already had personal favorite coffee spots like Andante and Cafetoria on my heart). But Sävy surprised me in the best way possible. Their coffee was delicious from the very first sip. In fact, I discovered my new favorite coffee beans here: the El Puente beans from Good Life Roastery, which have since become my favorite.

You can read about my first visit to Sävy Kahvila here.

4. Kaffa Roastery

A visit to Kaffa Roastery is more than just a coffee stop. It’s an experience. From inside the café, you can see the roastery, immersing yourself in the craftsmanship behind every cup. Inside the café, you get a direct view of the roastery, letting you witness the craft behind every batch. Their website lists details on the latest roast, including the start time, roasting duration, the roasters at work, and even the batch weight.

Unlike many central cafés, Kaffa is a little off the beaten path. You won’t just stumble upon it while wandering around the city. You’ll need to take a tram to get there. But trust me, the trip is worth it.

Kaffa’s beans are a staple in many Helsinki cafés and even some local supermarkets, but nothing compares to enjoying a cup brewed by their own baristas. The experience feels more personal. So, if you’re in Helsinki, make the trip! Sit back, sip, and enjoy coffee at its finest!

5. Heritage Café

Heritage Café stands out with its unique concept: a café and an art gallery. Step inside, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by artwork, making your visit a blend of coffee and creativity.

Conveniently located near Kamppi, one of Helsinki’s central shopping hubs and a major transport station, it’s a popular stop for travelers. I often see people rolling in with suitcases, likely taking a break before catching a bus or metro. Luckily, the café is spacious enough to accommodate both visitors and their luggage without feeling cramped.

Beyond the atmosphere, Heritage Café also offers a great selection of bread, sandwiches, and desserts. They are definitely worth trying if you’re in the area.

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Each of these cafés brings something special to the table, whether it’s a unique interior, expertly brewed coffee, or a cozy atmosphere that makes you want to stay a little longer.

So grab a cup, bring a friend or a good book, soak in the atmosphere, and savor the moment. Because great coffee is best enjoyed with the perfect ambiance.