Misku

China Flavor looks like just another non-descript restaurant in a mall, and I have to admit it's not the sort of place I'd usually try. So what a pleasant surprise to find tasty, fresh food and a good selection of it too (I had the lunch buffet). The deep fried squid was crispy on the outside and tender inside, the chicken-mushroom soup reminded me of the sort of soups on offer in the lunch restaurants of London's China Town, and the various stir fries were distinct--not just the same sauce with different proteins like in some places. The place was clean and the staff was friendly. I'll definitely come back!

Lupolo offers a diverse and delicious menu in a nice, lively setting. There are no main courses at Lupolo, instead you order a variety of dishes from their constantly changing menu. My friend and I split 5 courses plus dessert. It was fun and interesting to taste so many different dishes, and I was amazed at how cheap it turned out to be. All the dishes tasted unique (don't you hate those restaurants where everything tastes the same!), and even the most basic, such as the mozzarella salad, included some twist that I wouldn't have thought of trying at home.

The atmosphere was lively, and even though we were sitting very close to other diners, there was just the right amount of ambient noise so we weren't distracted by neighboring conversations. The only possible minus was the service: we had one brilliant waiter, and one who seemed very rushed and not terribly friendly. But overall it was a great experience. I look forward to returning! Oh, and remember to book in advance--the place is tiny.

There is good and bad about Spis. The service is excellent and friendly, it's a pretty little place, and the food is creative. However, the space is so small and silent that it can feel a bit weird hearing your neighbor's conversations and some of the food might have tasted nicer without all that fussiness. It was fun to visit, however, and I would be happy to go back one day to see what they come up with. The wine pairings that the staff suggested were also great!

Our take away orders (the only two items on the menu available) were heated in the microwave. Some of the meat was noticeably hard, but both dishes were still cold in the middle. We tasted both dishes, but they looked so unappetizing and with the uneven cooking/reheating, just weren't edible. This is the first whole dinner I've ever thrown away.

It's true that brunch at Villipuutarha isn't cheap, but it's definitely worth it! The staff are attentive and friendly, the atmosphere is wonderful, and the food really is great. We went with two toddlers and they were treated brilliantly. One of Kallio's gems!

This is one of my favorite Helsinki restaurants. If only they were open for more than lunch! Likely to please omnivores and vegetarians alike, the food is hearty, homey, and truly delicious. It would be nice if there were a bit more space, but crowding in with all the other friendly diners is also part of the appeal.

I only have positive things to say about Kuurna. The changing menu means there's always something new to try, the atmosphere is great, service friendly, and even after many visits I've loved every single dish I've eaten there. I've taken people with dietary restrictions to Kuurna, and the kitchen has willingly accommodated their needs (calling in advance is helpful). Just make sure you book in advance! This place is popular for a reason.

A tiny bit pricey, but the service is superb, and the food is far and away the best Chinese I've had in Finland. Really worth a visit!