• Menu
  • Menu

Top Dishes to Try in Estonia: Food & Dining Guide

Estonia might not be the first country you think of when it comes to food, but trust me, it’s one of Europe’s hidden culinary gems. This small Baltic country has a mix of influences from its neighbors, like Russia, Finland, and Sweden, but it also has its unique flavors. Local ingredients, rustic recipes, and modern updates on traditional dishes make Estonia’s food scene worth diving into.

Whether you’re looking for street food, hearty classics, or something fancy, Estonia has you covered. Here’s a guide on the must-try dishes and where to eat them while you’re in the land of forests, lakes, and great tasting food.

Traditional Estonian Dishes You Have to Try

Kartulipuder (Mashed Potatoes with Gravy)

Kartulipuder is one of the ultimate comfort foods in Estonia: mashed potatoes that come in a smooth, buttery mix, usually accompanied by a rich meat gravy. You’ll find this dish as a side in almost every traditional Estonian meal, often paired with some form of pork, sausages, or even fried herring. It’s like the local version of “meat and potatoes,” just with a stronger flavor thanks to its gravy.

Mulgikapsad (Sauerkraut with Barley and Pork)

This is one of Estonia’s favorite winter dishes, designed to keep you warm during the colder months. Mulgikapsad is made from sauerkraut mixed with barley and pork, slow-cooked to perfection. It’s rich, savory, and pairs especially well with dark rye bread.

Verivorst (Blood Sausage)

Verivorst is the traditional Christmas dish in Estonia, but you’ll find it in some restaurants year-round. It’s a sausage made of blood, grain (usually barley or oat), and spices. It’s often served with lingonberry sauce or marinated cabbage. Even if blood sausage isn’t your thing, giving it a try should be on your food bucket list in Estonia.

Leivasupp (Bread Soup)

Don’t let the name confuse you. Leivasupp is actually a dessert! This sweet soup is made from black rye bread, which is boiled down with dried fruits, cinnamon, and sugar. It’s a unique and surprisingly satisfying post-meal treat.

Sült (Jellied Meat)

You’ll either love it or leave it. Sült is a traditional Estonian dish where pork is boiled and then set in jelly formed from the stock and gelatin. It may not sound appealing to everyone, but locals swear by it—especially when served with mustard or vinegar to cut through the richness. It’s usually eaten cold as a snack or starter.

Street Food in Estonia

Kohuke

One of Estonia’s most popular snacks is the “kohuke,” a small dairy-based bar covered in chocolate. It’s like a combination of cheesecake and a candy bar. You’ll find them in every grocery store and even in some bakeries. They come in different flavors: from plain to caramel, berry, or even lemon. Perfect for a quick bite while on the go.

Smoked Fish

Estonians love their fish, and you’ll see why when you try fresh, smoked fish from a seaside vendor. Smoked herring and sprats are especially popular, and these are often served simply with dark rye bread and butter. It’s a simple dish but packed with flavor.

Vanaema’s Vürtsikilu (Grandma’s Spicy Sprats)

If you like sardines, Estonia’s version of spiced sprats will be right up your alley. These small fish are marinated with spices like cloves, black pepper, and allspice, then served with rye bread. Many Estonians eat them as a quick snack or part of breakfast.

Pirukas (Savory Pastries)

Pirukas is the name for a variety of savory pastries filled with meats, vegetables, or even egg and rice. Grab these at bakeries or small street food stands. These flaky pastries are perfect for a quick, satisfying on-the-go meal, especially if you’re rushing from one attraction to the next.

Regional Specialties in Estonia

Sour Milk and Kama

In southern Estonia, one iconic snack is sour milk served with “kama,” a powder made from a mix of roasted barley, oat, and pea flour. It might sound odd, but the combination is creamy yet slightly gritty from the kama. It’s somewhat of an acquired taste, but many Estonians grew up eating it.

Saaremaa Cheese

The island of Saaremaa is known for its dairy products, especially its cheese. Saaremaa’s cheese is rich and creamy with a mildly tangy flavor. You’ll find it in shops across Estonia, and it’s often used in local dishes or eaten simply with bread and butter.

Mulgi Puder

From the Mulgimaa region, Mulgi Puder is a porridge made from potatoes and barley. It’s usually served alongside pork. While simple in ingredients, the dish is hearty and filling, reflecting the agricultural background of the region.

Discover the Best Europe Tours at Tours4Fun!

Where to Eat in Estonia

Local Markets

If you want to experience authentic Estonian products, head to local markets like Tallinn’s Balti Jaama Turg. Here, you can try local breads, cheeses, jams, and even fresh fish, directly from the vendors. The market atmosphere is lively, and you get an excellent variety of products to try out without breaking the bank.

Bakeries

Estonian bakeries are excellent places to grab pastries like pirukas or kohuke. Some names to look out for include Rukis in Tallinn and Muhu Pagarid, which bakes bread using traditional methods. The freshly baked goods are often warm and perfect for a snack while strolling around.

Traditional Estonian Restaurants

If you’re looking for home-style Estonian food, Liisu Juures in Tallinn is a great spot. There, you can enjoy dishes like verivorst and mulgikapsad. Another favorite is Rataskaevu 16, where traditional meals are given a modern twist with fresh, local ingredients.

Modern Estonian Cuisine

For a finer dining experience, head to places like NOA or Põhjaka Manor, where chefs take traditional Estonian ingredients and create innovative, contemporary dishes. Expect an excellent combination of local flavors with international-level presentation and technique.

Drinks to Try in Estonia

Kali

Kali is a fermented drink common in Estonia. It’s low in alcohol and has a flavor reminiscent of beer mixed with bread! It’s less sweet than sodas but not quite alcoholic like beer, making it a daily drink choice.

Estonian Craft Beer

The craft beer scene in Estonia is booming, with a ton of local breweries experimenting with hops. Some local brands like Põhjala Brewery and Õllenaut showcase Estonian twists on various beer styles. If you’re into craft beer, Estonia will not disappoint.

Vana Tallinn

This is one of Estonia’s most famous liqueurs, known for its strong vanilla and citrus flavor. Vana Tallinn is sweet but packs a punch with its high alcohol content. Estonians often drink it as a shot or mix it with coffee.

Seasonal Eating in Estonia

White Nights of Summer

Summer is a good time to find eateries offering seasonal produce like fresh berries and mushrooms. It’s a good time to try dishes with a heavier focus on fresh, lighter ingredients. Many restaurants will serve items like fresh forest berries or chanterelle mushrooms picked from the local woods.

Winter Comfort Foods

Estonian winter cuisine is hearty, full of stews, soups, and baked goods to help stave off the cold. From mulgikapsad to pork dishes, don’t expect light fare during those chilly months. It’s all about staying full and warm.

Estonia may be small, but it’s packed with culinary delights. Whether you’re nibbling on pastries, digging into sauerkraut, or sipping a glass of Vana Tallinn, eating in Estonia is an experience you won’t want to miss. So go ahead, follow your taste buds, and enjoy this Baltic state’s rich food culture.

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *