Oulu's 11 most unusual and surprising restaurant experiences

In Oulu, you can enjoy your meal on the deck of a boat, to the accompaniment of Caribbean rhythms or in a historic villa by the sea. We've compiled a list of Oulu's most personal restaurant experiences that offer more than just good food - they offer a story, an atmosphere and something you didn't expect.

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Restaurant Bootti

Bootti is an Oulu restaurant ship located on Vänmanninsaari, where the pride of North Ostrobothnia, salmon soup, is served daily at lunch - with island bread and coffee. The sun deck seats 150 people, while on the mainland side there is a large terrace and an event tent. The boat serves as a maritime living room for anyone who wants to be by the water - without seasickness, as the boat stays moored next to the Civic Theatre.

Villa Hannala

Villa Hannala is a historic garden café and restaurant in Toppilansaari, Oulu. It offers homemade pastries, salads and light lunches, including traditional salmon soup and vegetarian options. For sweet lovers, there are cakes and buns, among other things. Villa Hannala also serves as a party venue for various events and is part of the Go Arctic Experience Cafés.

Mallassauna

Mallassa sauna enjoy not only a relaxed atmosphere, but also a carefully constructed menu where flavours and beers go hand in hand. There is a variety of dishes for both meat lovers and vegetarians - each dish designed to complement Hailuoto Brewery high quality beers made from organic ingredients. There are thoughtful flavour pairings and experiences that make a visit more than just a dinner - it's a total experience.

Fuchka

Fuchka is the only Bangladeshi restaurant in Finland, located in Oulu. The menu includes, for example, a named portion fuchka (stuffed crunchy spherical snack), fuchka soup, spicy curry bowls and light snacks. There are also sweet desserts and vegan options.

 

Indian cuisine

Indian cuisine is an Indian family restaurant in the centre of Oulu. The restaurant offers a wide range of classic Indian dishes such as butter chicken, tikka masala, lamb and fish dishes, as well as plenty of vegetarian options. The dishes are prepared with traditional spice blends and served with rice, naan bread or raita sauce.

Italica Taberna

Italica Taberna is an Italian restaurant right in the centre of Oulu. The menu includes antipasto plates, fresh pasta, risottos, carpaccio, bruschetta and tiramisu. The ingredients are of Italian quality - for example, air-dried ham, mozzarella and olive oil. The restaurant has received excellent reviews from its customers and is known for its high quality food and cosy atmosphere. The restaurant works in partnership with the adjacent Mallasterass where you can order the restaurant's delicacies directly to the terrace to enjoy.

Restaurant Gaia

Gaia is a family restaurant in the centre of Oulu, serving authentic Greek home cooking in a warm and relaxed atmosphere. The menu includes moussaka, souvlaki, gyros, meze, halloumi and tzatziki - often served with baklava or yoghurt with honey for dessert. Gaia is known for its hospitality and Greek music evenings that transport you to the Mediterranean.

Robbie's The Sandwich Shop

Robbie's The Sandwich Shop is located in the centre of Oulu, on Rautatienkatu, and brings a touch of Caribbean warmth and a relaxed atmosphere to the north. The restaurant's menu offers a variety of stuffed sandwiches and burgers, combining fresh ingredients with a variety of international flavours. For example Robbie's train Mi is a Vietnamese-inspired delicacy with grilled pork, cucumber, lettuce and marinated carrots. Italian Chicken combine grilled chicken thighs, pesto, parsley and truffle mayonnaise with fresh side dishes. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available

Viking restaurant Harald

Viking restaurant Harald takes you to the heart of the Viking world, where food and togetherness were the highlights of life. When you ate, you ate well - and the same is true of the restaurant's extensive menu today. From meat to fish and vegetables, there's something for everyone. With its atmospheric Viking ambience, impressive dishes and an experience for all the senses, Harald's is an unforgettable dining experience.

Tuba Food & Lounge

Tuba Food & Lounge is a casual and personal restaurant where you can enjoy perhaps the best pizza in town, live music and good company. The pizzas are made with sourdough, slow-risen dough and quality ingredients in a 400-degree oven. Culture and togetherness are reflected in intimate gigs, weekly Tubavisa and collaboration with local operators. Recycled interiors and sustainable values complete Tuba's unique, homely atmosphere.

I guess you get hungry when you read!

There are still plenty of places in Oulu worth tasting. If Oulu's specialities tickled your taste buds, grab 11 more of the city's long-lasting favourites!

Oulu's best restaurants 2025