Estonian restaurant culture is thriving and has plenty of easily accessible options, from fine dining to unique treats from organic farms. Already a weekend getaway is quite an experience, but Estonia's atmospheric villages make you want to stay a little longer. In fact, Estonia is the first Baltic country to be featured in the world-renowned MICHELIN Guide. Your mouth will start watering when planning this trip!
Seaside ambiance and quality wine
If your culinary route starts east of Tallinn, home restaurant MerMer a little distance away in Kuusalu, is a perfect starting point. Located in a small fishing village, the restaurant owner Jaan and his wife, Chef Merritt, serve local treats accompanied by excellent French and Italian wines. Hummer the dog entertains the guests waiting for food. Make a reservation in advance as their cozy space fills quickly!
Fine dining in style
The region of Lake Peipsi is rooted deep in history. One of the unique destinations of the area is Alatskivi Castle, which offers both Estonian and Scottish flavors. The gorgeous, white castle is also worth seeing as the guides know lots of fascinating stories about the history of the castle and the region. The grounds offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, and you can use it as a base to explore the Onion Road.
Organic and seasonal, please!
A relaxed atmosphere with bold flavors can be found in Viljandi at Café Restaurant Fellin. Fellin made the 2022 MICHELIN Guide, which recognized the quality of the local, and mostly organic, ingredients featured in their seasonal menu. The menu includes heavenly courses for vegetarians as well as Estonian craft beers and ciders.
For cider and wine lovers
A true gem is located close to Pärnu in Tori. At Tori Jõesuu Cider and Wine Farm, in addition to tasting wonderful produce, you get to learn about growing apples and grapes, as well as enjoy delicious meals, such as grilled fish and pies roasted over an open fire.
An exclusive island experience
Pull up to Pädaste Manor on Muhu Island and treat yourself to dinner at Alexander, one of the top five restaurants in Estonia, according to White Guide Nordic. The fully renovated manor complex has been turned into a hotel and spa complex, and the luxury extends to the dining room. Alexander offers New Nordic cuisine inspired by the cooking traditions of Muhu and the surrounding islands. The highlight is their seven-course Islands tasting menu.
On the top of a 25-meter cliff
Next to a lighthouse in Paldiski, on a high cliff, is Pakri Parun, an atmospheric ending to this culinary road trip. The simple menu leans towards the Mediterranean. The location is unforgettable, and it catches both sunrise and sunset—stop at least for a cup of coffee or sparkling wine.
Want to find the perfect pairings for your culinary road trip? Check out the Estonian wine route. Estonian wines tend to be on the sweeter side and are often made from local fruits such as rhubarb, sea buckthorn, black currants, and raspberries. Use the guide to add stops at local wineries and cider farms or stop and pick up some bottles to bring home and try once you're off the road.
