Helsinki Winter Bars

Posted by Lisa Sabol-Sikorski Nov 8, 2006

Ahjo in the Klaus K. The Klaus K hotel is Helsinki’s newest design hotel, fusing elements of nature with minimalist, modern design. Ahjo is Klaus K’s bar and nightclub. The decor in the first room is stark white, while the second room is decorated in dark tones and plush, cozy couches. Ahjo serves a mean gin and tonic. Ilmatar, the Klaus K restaurant next door, is the place to go for upscale Finnish cuisine. Address: Bulevardi 2.

Teatteri. Teatteri is a restaurant, bar, and nightclub on Helsinki's Esplanad. The restaurant serves average quality (but expensive) pan-European food and it has an extensive wine list. The bar has an elegant feel, with long, raised tables and modern looking couches to gather with friends. Prime time in the bar is from 5:00 – 8:00pm. The nightclub, open until 4:00am on Friday and Saturday nights, is a popular place to see Helsinki’s beautiful people. I like the cosmopolitans at Teatteri. Address: Pohjoisesplanadi 2.

Mecca. Mecca is another elegant pan-European restaurant with a popular bar and club. Enjoy a glass of chilled alcoholic cider here and mix with an international crowd. Address: Korkeavuorenkatu 34.

Arctic Ice Bar. The temperature is kept at -5 degrees Celsius all year round, so visitors are given a warm cape and gloves to wear upon entry. The bar is literally made of ice. A perfect place for vodka shots. Enter through La Bodega Spanish restaurant, or through the Unique Club after 10:00pm from Wednesday to Sunday. Address: Yliopistonkatu 5.