A Local’s Guide to Helsinki’s Specialty Food Stores and Delicatessens

Helsinki is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wealth of specialty food stores and delicatessens that celebrate the finest Finnish and international culinary traditions. Whether you’re looking for artisanal cheeses, fresh seafood, organic produce, or hard-to-find international ingredients, Helsinki’s specialty food shops and delis offer something for every palate. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to find gourmet foods, highlighting local delicacies, sustainable practices, and where to shop for both Finnish and international flavors.

1. Hakaniemi Market Hall – A Historic Food Lover’s Haven

Hakaniemi Market Hall, one of the most iconic food markets in Helsinki, is a treasure trove of local Finnish products and specialty items. Located in the Hakaniemi district, this market hall has been serving customers for over a century and is known for its high-quality produce and artisan foods.

• What to Expect: The two-floor market offers a rich variety of food, including fresh fish, meats, cheeses, vegetables, and baked goods. On the second floor, you’ll find handicrafts and household items, but the real highlight is the ground floor, where specialty food vendors offer everything from locally sourced meats to organic vegetables and exotic spices.
• Best Finds: Be sure to visit the fishmongers for Finland’s finest fresh fish, such as salmon, perch, and herring. The cheese counters offer a fantastic selection of locally produced Finnish cheeses, such as leipäjuusto (squeaky cheese) and artisanal gouda. You’ll also find excellent rye bread, local pastries, and smoked reindeer, a true Finnish delicacy.
• Pro Tip: Don’t miss the seasonal specialties, such as fresh wild berries and mushrooms, which are abundant during the summer and fall months. Hakaniemi Market Hall is also a great place to try Finnish pastries, like karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasty), often served with egg butter.

2. Old Market Hall (Vanha Kauppahalli) – Helsinki’s Classic Delicatessen

Located near Helsinki’s South Harbour, the Old Market Hall is the oldest indoor market in the city, having been open since 1889. This historic venue is a must-visit for anyone seeking gourmet foods, local delicacies, and high-quality ingredients. The market has been beautifully restored, offering a charming and authentic Finnish shopping experience.

• What to Expect: The Old Market Hall is filled with stalls that offer a wide range of gourmet foods, from fresh fish and seafood to cured meats, cheeses, and baked goods. It’s a fantastic place to explore if you’re looking for both Finnish and international delicacies. The market also boasts small cafés and eateries where you can sit down for a light meal or enjoy coffee and pastries.
• Best Finds: Seafood lovers should head to the fish stalls for fresh Finnish salmon, smoked fish, and the ever-popular salmon soup (lohikeitto), a Finnish classic. You’ll also find excellent charcuterie, including sausages, salami, and ham, as well as international items like Italian cheeses and Spanish olives.
• Pro Tip: The market is an excellent place to pick up gourmet gifts or specialty ingredients for your next meal. Try the locally made mustard, wild game meats, and artisan chocolates.

3. Anton & Anton – Organic and Local Delicacies

Anton & Anton is a high-end grocery store with several locations around Helsinki, focusing on organic and locally sourced products. The store is popular among locals who value sustainability and quality, offering everything from fresh produce to baked goods and deli items.

• What to Expect: Anton & Anton is known for its carefully curated selection of organic fruits and vegetables, fresh meats, artisanal bread, and specialty pantry items. The store places a strong emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, making it a favorite among eco-conscious shoppers. You’ll also find prepared foods made in-house, perfect for quick meals that don’t sacrifice quality.
• Best Finds: Look for organic Finnish vegetables and berries, as well as ethically sourced meats. The bakery section offers fresh loaves of bread, pastries, and seasonal specialties, all made with organic ingredients. The deli counter features Finnish cheeses, charcuterie, and pre-prepared meals like hearty stews and fresh salads.
• Pro Tip: Anton & Anton is a great place to stock up on sustainable and organic pantry staples. Their selection of gourmet oils, vinegars, spices, and local honey is perfect for those who enjoy cooking with high-quality ingredients.

4. Stockmann Delicatessen – Gourmet Food Under One Roof

Located in Helsinki’s iconic Stockmann department store, the Stockmann Delicatessen is a well-known gourmet food hall that offers a wide variety of Finnish and international delicacies. As part of Finland’s largest department store, this deli is a convenient one-stop shop for those seeking premium groceries, international products, and specialty items.

• What to Expect: Stockmann Delicatessen boasts an extensive selection of fresh seafood, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and imported products. The deli offers an impressive range of both Finnish and international ingredients, making it an ideal place for food lovers who want access to hard-to-find items.
• Best Finds: The seafood counter is a highlight, featuring fresh fish, shellfish, and sushi. The cheese section offers a global selection of cheeses, from Finnish blue cheese to French brie. You’ll also find high-quality cuts of meat, from Finnish game to imported specialties like wagyu beef. The bakery offers fresh Finnish rye bread, croissants, and pastries.
• Pro Tip: Stockmann’s ready-to-eat section is perfect for grabbing a quick lunch, offering sandwiches, salads, and soups made from fresh ingredients. The deli also stocks international delicacies like fine chocolates, olive oils, and specialty pastas, making it an excellent spot to find ingredients for a gourmet meal at home.

5. Amano – Italian Delicatessen in Helsinki

For those craving authentic Italian ingredients, Amano is the go-to delicatessen in Helsinki. Located in the Design District, this specialty store offers a curated selection of high-quality Italian foods, including fresh pasta, cheeses, and charcuterie.

• What to Expect: Amano brings a taste of Italy to Helsinki with a range of gourmet products sourced directly from Italian producers. The store is small but packed with premium ingredients, from fresh pasta and sauces to Italian wines and olive oils. You’ll also find traditional Italian desserts like biscotti and tiramisu.
• Best Finds: Amano’s fresh pasta and homemade sauces are must-tries, offering authentic Italian flavors that are perfect for a gourmet dinner at home. The deli counter features cured meats like prosciutto and salami, as well as an excellent selection of Italian cheeses, including parmigiano-reggiano and gorgonzola.
• Pro Tip: Amano is an excellent place to pick up a gourmet picnic or antipasto platter. Pair their fine Italian wines with a selection of cheeses, meats, and olives for a delicious Mediterranean feast.

6. Ruohonjuuri – Organic and Health Food Store

Ruohonjuuri is one of Helsinki’s leading organic and health food stores, known for its focus on sustainability, natural products, and eco-friendly groceries. With several locations around the city, Ruohonjuuri is popular among locals who prioritize organic living and wellness.

• What to Expect: Ruohonjuuri specializes in organic, vegetarian, and vegan products, offering everything from superfoods and supplements to organic produce and eco-friendly household items. The store also features a wide range of gluten-free and dairy-free products, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
• Best Finds: Look for organic Finnish grains, herbal teas, and fresh vegetables. Ruohonjuuri is also known for its selection of plant-based milk, organic chocolates, and natural skincare products. Their eco-friendly cleaning supplies and reusable containers are perfect for those looking to live more sustainably.
• Pro Tip: Ruohonjuuri frequently offers promotions on their organic and sustainable products, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for deals on popular items like fair-trade coffee, natural oils, and organic snacks.

7. Maaemo – Organic Produce Delivered to Your Doorstep

If you prefer to shop from the comfort of your home, Maaemo is an online platform that specializes in delivering organic, locally sourced produce straight to your doorstep. The company partners with small Finnish farms to provide seasonal fruits, vegetables, and other farm-fresh products.

• What to Expect: Maaemo’s website makes it easy to order organic groceries, with a focus on sustainability and reducing food waste. The platform offers a range of organic produce, from leafy greens and root vegetables to eggs, honey, and herbs. You can choose from different-sized boxes depending on your needs, and the produce is delivered weekly.
• Best Finds: Seasonal vegetables and berries are the stars of Maaemo’s selection, offering a fresh taste of Finnish nature. The platform also features specialty items like organic eggs, raw honey, and farm-fresh herbs.
• Pro Tip: Subscribe to Maaemo’s weekly delivery service to receive the freshest organic produce and support local Finnish farmers.

Conclusion

Helsinki’s specialty food stores and delicatessens offer a rich array of culinary delights, perfect for anyone looking to explore the city’s vibrant food scene. From the historic market halls of Hakaniemi and the Old Market Hall to eco-conscious stores like Ruohonjuuri and gourmet destinations like Amano, Helsinki has something for every food lover. Whether you’re shopping for local Finnish delicacies or international gourmet ingredients, these stores offer a world of flavors that will satisfy your culinary cravings.