Summer in Estonia means long, sunny days… and what better way to while away those days than kicking back on a terrace – a refreshing drink in hand – as you scan the menu for something that takes your fancy.
With temperatures rarely exceeding 26°C, it’s neither too hot nor too humid for dining alfresco, making it the perfect weather for a lingering meal which extends into the afternoon or evening.
We take a look at five of the MICHELIN Inspectors’ favourite outside dining spots…
Gianni, Tallinn
This welcoming Italian restaurant sits close to the main shopping district and offers something for one and all, from coffee and cake to a comprehensive selection of Italian favourites. Take a seat out the front at one of the four terrace tables – which are backed by the reflective sleek black glass façade – or head through to the pretty garden at the back. You’ll need to arrive early to secure a table out here, as they’re first-come-first-served; alternatively, push the boat out a little and book the ‘Garden House’, a private greenhouse which seats 4 guests.
Puri, Tallinn
The Haven Kakumäe Marina development is home to Puri, whose name means ‘sails’, which is fitting as you can arrive here by yacht or boat. Light floods in through the full-length windows of the impressive split-level interior, which comes with Scandinavian styling and an open kitchen where the eye-catching modern dishes are prepared. Seafood is kept to the fore on the menu and is the natural choice considering the proximity of the sea. Pick a spot on the first floor terrace to hear the waves lapping at the water's edge and the gentle clang of the yachts' rigging, while taking in stunning views over the marina. This is also the perfect spot to watch the setting sun slip away on the horizon.
Joyce, Tartu
Located in a modern shopping centre in the centre of the city, this fashionable brasserie comes with an appealingly buzzy vibe and a great cocktail bar. Grab a drink and head straight out to the terrace – this is a permanent structure where you can sit whatever the weather, as it’s covered from the elements overhead as well as being enclosed by glass. Sit on grey-cushioned rattan sofas or bistro-style chairs and enjoy creative dishes which combine both local and wider Baltic flavours.
Moon, Tallinn
You’ll be warmly welcomed by the charming team at this intimate bistro located just 10 minutes’ walk from the Old Town and a stone’s throw from the harbour. It’s an intimate place with three brightly decorated rooms, however, in the warmer months, the pretty walled courtyard is definitely the place to sit. Enjoy modern Slavic food cooked with great passion, sitting in ornate steel-framed chairs at matching tables topped with glass, under the cover of elegant, sail-shaped sunshades.
NOA, Tallinn
Set in a terrific coastal location, NOA affords far-reaching views over Tallin Bay and the Gulf of Finland and, while the stylish dining room with its floor-to-ceiling windows is a great spot whatever the weather, it’s the terrace that's the place to be the second the sun peeps out from behind a cloud. The fresh fish dishes here are top-notch and feel all the better eaten to the sound of lapping waves and the smell of salty sea air. The sunsets here are legendary too – so-much-so that their website even counts down the hours until the sun starts to fall.
NOA holds a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand – read more about Estonia's good value Bib Gourmand restaurants here.
