The Life and Travels of Mrs Suvi

Tartu is a great place for a culinary adventure. No wonder there’s a Tasty Tartu festival happening there – next time in August this year. Here are some recommendations for your visit!

When in Estonia, one must eat some cake because Estonians really know their cakes. Cake can be eaten any time of day, as many of the cafes are open till quite late. Werner is located in the Old Town and has a historical feel about it.

Apparently actors, painters and other artsy types like to frequent there.

The cakes at Werner come from Gustav Pastry. They have their own Gustav Gastro Café at the Kaubamaja shopping centre. You can have cake or even a whole meal there. Gustav cafe can also be found in Tallinn.

A firm favourite with locals and visitors alike – Umb Roht. Just look at this courtyard and imagine it without the snow, I’d love to sit there underneath the fairy lights! Umb Roht is an excellent choice if you want to try some quality Estonian fare.

As eating outside in this weather is a bit extreme (even for Finns), it is best to have your meal inside. It’s very cosy and stylish.

Umb Roht is a bit on the expensive side but the food is divine. And they have great cocktails too! We had lunch but if you are going for dinner, then it is a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

If you’d rather have Italian, then no-frills Pizzeria La Dolce Vita is a good choice. We walked in without a reservation and managed to get a table without much wait but I’d reserve a table just to be sure.

You might want to sample some Estonian cider or beer before or after your meal. One unique place is deTolly beer bar. It’s a bit tricky to find, in the basement of the Barclay Street Food diner. DeTolly beer bar has an ample selection of microbrewery beers and ciders and the staff will help you select the right one for you!

If you’d rather go for a glass of wine, Vilde & Vine could be your thing. They also have “blind dinners” and you can book wine tasting as well.

It is quite artsy inside.

It’s a good idea to try some of the local drinks when in Tartu. This here was a chokeberry cider!

Last but not least, not located in Tartu itself but on the highway on the way to or from Tallinn – Põhjaka Manor – located in a historical building from 1820.

The manor was a bit drafty when we visited but the atmosphere was cosy and laid-back.

Their menu changes frequently but here’s an example of a hearty dish perfect for winter!

Check out my older post for what to do in between your meals when you visit. What are your favourite places for cake, dinner or drinks in Tartu? Let me know in the comments below, so I can go check them out next time!

xx