Places to eat in Tallinn: best restaurants & bakeries

Last Updated on April 13, 2026 by Ioana

If you’re looking for the best places to eat in Tallinn, you’ll quickly realize this city has way more to offer than you might expect.

From cozy bakeries and casual food markets to traditional restaurants in the Old Town, Tallinn has a great mix of options for every type of traveler.

I visited Tallinn and tried a mix of popular spots and local recommendations, so this guide is based on what I actually ate (and loved). Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, a great pastry, or a memorable dinner, these are the places I recommend. This blog post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase I may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. Find out more here.

ROST Bakery: best bakery in Tallinn

Run, don’t walk, to ROST Bakery. It’s easily one of the best places to eat in Tallinn if you love pastries.

They make incredible cinnamon buns, cardamom buns, and rhubarb buns, all freshly baked with high quality ingredients.

The coffee is also very good, which makes it a perfect first stop in the city, even if you arrive by ferry from Helsinki as it’s close to the ferry terminal.

There’s usually a line, but it moves quickly (around 10–15 minutes), and it’s absolutely worth the wait.

The bakery is located in a more modern area of Tallinn, so it’s a nice contrast before heading into the Old Town.

You have to eat here, especially if it’s your first time in Tallinn.

Rataskaevu 16: best restaurant in Old Town

If you want a proper sit-down meal in Tallinn’s Old Town, then this is the perfect place. Rataskaevu 16 is one of my favorite restaurants in Tallinn.

If you want some recommendations on what to visit in the Old Town check out both my 2 day Tallinn itinerary and solo travel guide.

The food here is top notch: traditional Estonian cuisine with a modern twist. I wish I could have tried their entire menu! They start you with dark rye bread and butter.

Then I ordered the roasted elk meat for the main course and it was incredibly tender and full of flavor.

For dessert, you have to try the bread pudding with apple and rhubarb, strawberry ice cream, and salted caramel. Your taste buds will thank you. It sounds like a lot, but It’s the perfect combination, trust me. 

They had such friendly service too! It didn’t feel like a typical touristy restaurant at all. The whole experience was great.

If you visit during the summer months, the restaurant has outdoor seating so you can dine with great views of the Tallinn Old Town in a relaxed atmosphere. This is what I did and I had a great time.

Samsa Family Bakery: best casual food spot

If you’re looking for something more casual, this is the perfect spot. It’s also one of my favorite places to eat in Tallinn.

You’ll find it inside Balti Jaama Turg (translates to Baltic Station Market), a modern food market near Telliskivi Creative City.

It’s a really great spot to get food and buy some souvenirs. It’s also close to Telliskivy Creative City, so make sure to check that out! Read my best things to do in Tallinn guide for more details.

They serve Uzbek food like dumplings, pilaf, and fresh bread. I tried the bread and the noodles with beef and everything was delicious. It’s also very affordable compared to many restaurants in Tallinn.

It’s a popular place, so there’s usually a line, which is always a good sign.

Sai Sandwiches: best quick bite

This spot was recommended to me by a local and it did not disappoint.

It’s a small sandwich shop near Viru Gate that makes really good focaccia sandwiches. And they also have great service. If you need something quick and affordable, this is a great option.

It’s a great place for lunch or a quick break while exploring the Old Town.

Olde Hansa: touristy but unique experience

I didn’t personally eat here, but I want to mention it since it’s one of the most well-known Tallinn restaurants. It’s also close to many great hotels in Tallinn.

It’s a medieval-themed restaurant right in Town Hall Square. The atmosphere is very unique, but from what I read, prices are high and the experience can feel a bit touristy.

If you’re curious, it could still be a cool place. But my personal recommendation is to prioritize the other spots on this list.

Estonian cooking class: best food experience in Tallinn

If you want to go beyond just eating out, one of the best food experiences you can have in Tallinn is joining a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Estonian food.

I did this in the Old Town and it ended up being one of the highlights of my trip.

You start by learning about local ingredients and how Estonian cuisine has been shaped by history and geography. Then you get hands-on and prepare a full meal yourself using local fresh produce.

The best part is sitting down at the end and enjoying the delicious food you’ve cooked. It’s a really fun and relaxed experience, and it’s also a great way to meet other travelers if you’re visiting solo.

If you’re interested in food and want something more interactive than just going to restaurants, I highly recommend it.

FAQ about places to eat in Tallinn

Is food expensive in Tallinn?

Tallinn is more affordable than many Western European cities, but prices in the Old Town can still be high. Food markets and casual spots are great for saving money.

What food should I try in Tallinn?

Try local dishes like elk, salmon, and traditional sourdough bread, but also pastries like cinnamon buns and cardamom buns.

Are there good bakeries in Tallinn?

Yes, Tallinn has some excellent bakeries. ROST Bakery is one of the best.