Exploring Finnish Food: A Guide for International Students in Tampere

Picture: Visit Tampere, Laura Vanzo

Moving to Finland for your studies is an exciting adventure, and one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Finnish culture is through food. Finnish cuisine is all about simplicity, freshness, and hearty flavors that help people get through the long winters. If you're an exchange or international student in Tampere, here's a guide to some must-try Finnish foods and where to find them.

Traditional Finnish Dishes You Should Try

 

Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian Pie)

This iconic Finnish snack consists of a thin rye crust filled with rice porridge, usually served with a spread made of butter and boiled egg. You can find freshly baked Karelian pies at local bakeries or grocery stores like Prisma or K-Market.

Karjalanpiirakoita munavoilla.

Lohikeitto (Salmon Soup)

A warm and creamy salmon soup is a staple of Finnish cuisine, especially during cold months. It typically includes salmon, potatoes, leeks, carrots, and cream, creating a rich and comforting dish. Try it at restaurants like Ravintola Tampella or at a lunch buffet.

Finnish salmon soup. Picture: Adobe Stock

Mustamakkara (Black Sausage)

If you’re in Tampere, you can’t miss mustamakkara, the city’s famous blood sausage. Served with lingonberry jam, it’s a local favorite and best enjoyed from the Tammelantori market square.

Finnish mustamakkara with lingonberry jam.

Leipäjuusto (Finnish Squeaky Cheese)

This mild cheese is often served warm with cloudberry jam. It has a unique texture and is a delightful dessert or snack. You can find it in most supermarkets.

Finnish squeaky cheese. Picture Adobe Stock

 

What to Buy in Finnish Supermarkets

Exploring Finnish supermarkets can be a fun experience! Here are some local products worth trying:

  • Ruisleipä (Rye Bread): A dense, sour bread that Finns eat daily.
  • Salmiakki (Salty Licorice): A polarizing candy—either you love it or hate it!
  • Maksalaatikko (Liver Casserole): A classic ready-made dish found in the frozen section.
  • Munkki (Finnish Donuts): Delicious deep-fried pastries, great with coffee.

Visit K-Supermarket, Lidl, or S-Market to explore these Finnish flavors.

 

Where to Experience Finnish Food Culture in Tampere

  • Tammelantori Market Square – A great place to try mustamakkara and fresh berries in the summer.
  • Kauppahalli (Market Hall) – A historic indoor market with fresh bread, cheeses, and local delicacies.
  • Cafés like Pyynikin Munkkikahvila – Famous for its sugar-coated doughnuts and beautiful views over Tampere.

Be aware that Market Squares are mostly open from Monday to Friday/Saturday just from 8am to 2pm/3pm.

Kauppahalli
Kauppahalli (Kuva: Visit Tampere, Laura Vanzo)

 

Cooking Finnish Food Yourself

If you want to try making Finnish food at home, start with simple recipes like salmon soup or Karelian pies. You can find recipes online or ask a Finnish friend for their grandmother’s secret tips!

Korvapuusti

Trying Finnish food is an essential part of your exchange experience in Tampere. Whether you’re sampling local specialties at the market or cooking at home, you’ll get a true taste of Finnish culture. Be adventurous and explore the flavors of Finland!

 

About the Author:

Maria Niemelä

Hi! My name is Maria. I’m in third year of my studies building services engineering, electrical systems in TAMK. At free time I like to cook, put together puzzles, dance in the clubs and take time for myself.  I’m also an active member of the student organizations, but my heart belongs to our degree club TaTeK.