Café Savoy: A taste of southern France’s sunshine

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Anton Sucksdorff and Mikko Ryhänen

Just a few steps below the legendary Restaurant Savoy, located in the heart of Helsinki, sits its southern France-inspired cousin, Café Savoy. The restaurant embodies the spirit of joie de vivre – the unhurried pleasure of good food, fine wine and great company.

Though its roots lie in southern France’s cuisine, Café Savoy takes a broad and imaginative approach to its inspiration. The menu draws from the culinary traditions that span from Biarritz on the Atlantic coast, through the Pyrenees and Marseille, to Provence, Nice and the Italian border.

Behind both the iconic Savoy and Café Savoy, is chef patron Helena Puolakka, whose ability to combine refined elegance with genuine warmth has helped redefine contemporary dining in Helsinki. “Our goal is to offer simple, delicious and beautiful food made from the best ingredients of the season. Rather than trends, we’re focused on taste, passion and authenticity,” says Puolakka.

Café Savoy’s menus follow the rhythm of the seasons: spring and summer bring light, fresh flavours that highlight simplicity, while autumn and winter embrace slow-braised meats, rich sauces and deeper tones.

The restaurant’s menu includes classics like salad niçoise, served with a velvety tuna cream.

Led by chef Matias Poutiainen, the kitchen places emphasis on local and Finnish ingredients, complemented by select French specialties such as Bresse chicken and tender Sisteron lamb in spring. The à la carte selection includes beloved classics like salad niçoise with a velvety tuna cream, and there are always vegetarian dishes, crafted with the same care and creativity as the rest of the menu.

Café Savoy: A taste of southern France’s sunshine

For the team at Café Savoy, wine is a joyful thing, and they hope that this spirit shines through both in the selection and in the service offered to every guest. “Our sommelier team takes pride in making wine exploration feel easy and pleasurable, encouraging guests to discover new flavours and pairings without pretence,” says Puolakka.

Café Savoy: A taste of southern France’s sunshine

Designed for living

Café Savoy’s interior is designed by Studio Joanna Laajisto, whose team worked closely with local artisans to create a space that feels timeless yet lived-in. Oak floors, marble tabletops and counters have been designed to develop a rich patina over time. “We wanted to create a place that will last for decades to come, and that will grow even more beautiful with time,” the chef patron says.

Puolakka’s vision for Café Savoy blends a love of great food, fine ingredients and heartfelt hospitality, bringing a touch of southern European warmth and light to Helsinki year-round.

Café Savoy: A taste of southern France’s sunshine