Café Regatta

A tiny red wooden cottage by the sea serving cinnamon buns, hot berry juice, and grill sausages by an open fire. Quintessentially Helsinki.

If you want to experience a place that feels like a warm, eccentric hug from a good friend, take a walk down to the shoreline in Taka-Töölö and look for the tiny red wooden cabin known as Cafe Regatta. This iconic seaside spot looks like it jumped straight out of a traditional Finnish countryside fairytale, bringing a delightfully rustic, nostalgic charm right to the edge of the city.

The vibe at Regatta is completely one of a kind and wonderfully human. There are no sleek modern lines or minimalist designs here—instead, the cabin and its spacious outdoor yard are filled with a fascinating collection of vintage coffee pots, old signs, and quirky maritime relics. The atmosphere is incredibly warm, inclusive, and relaxed. The friendly team serves you with an easygoing cheerfulness, and because the indoor space is so wonderfully compact, most of the magic happens out in the yard around the open log fire.

Regatta is world-famous for its massive, fresh-out-of-the-oven cinnamon buns (korvapuusti), which pair perfectly with a traditional cup of coffee. But the real local secret is buying a sausage from the counter and roasting it yourself over the crackling open fire in the yard. Whether it is a sunny summer afternoon with kayaks gliding by on the water, or a crisp winter day with snow on the ground, the cozy community spirit here remains exactly the same.

It’s the ultimate destination when you want to experience authentic Finnish outdoor culture, slow down completely, and enjoy simple, sweet moments by the sea.

What recommends: Regatta is a must-visit for a cozy morning coffee or a unique evening hangout. If you feel like getting out on the water, you can also rent canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards right from their yard during the warmer months—making it the perfect base for a little coastal adventure followed by a warm cinnamon bun.