7 best Runeberg Tortes in Helsinki
As the new year settles in and Finnish winter takes hold, a beloved seasonal treat returns to cafés and bakeries across Helsinki: the Runeberg torte. These small almond pastries, topped with raspberry jam and a neat ring of icing, are traditionally enjoyed from early January through early February, peaking around Runeberg Day on 5 February.
Whether you prefer the classic rum-infused version or a modern bakery twist, Helsinki offers plenty of places to savour this winter favourite. From cultural institutions to cosy neighbourhood cafés (and seasonal pop-ups), here are seven places to find the best Runeberg tortes in the city — and what makes each worth a visit.
The sweet history behind the Runeberg torte
In the heart of Finnish winter, when the days are still short but the first hints of light begin to appear, Finns have a delicious way of embracing the season. The early months of the year are filled with comforting seasonal treats, and the first to arrive is the beloved Runeberg torte. These small almond-rich cakes — crowned with raspberry jam and a neat ring of icing — appear for only a few short weeks each year, making them one of the most anticipated treats of the season.
The pastry is named after Finland’s national poet, Johan Ludvig Runeberg, best known for penning the lyrics to Finland’s national anthem, and who helped shape Finnish identity in the 19th century. While Runeberg and his wife, writer Fredrika Runeberg, lived in Porvoo, their legacy has long been closely connected to Helsinki’s cultural life. The original recipe is often credited to Fredrika in the 1850s, and Helsinki soon embraced the torte as a sweet tribute to the poet.
In fact, it was here in the capital that the Runeberg torte became a true national favourite: Café Ekberg, Helsinki’s oldest bakery, began selling them in the 1860s, helping to establish the pastry as a seasonal classic.
Today, the tortes return each January, peaking around Runeberg Day on 5 February, when locals celebrate with coffee, cake, and a little moment of winter nostalgia.
Runeberg Tortes: the great debate
Ask any Finn, and they’ll have strong opinions on what makes the best Runeberg tart. Some are traditionalists, insisting that only a rum-soaked, dense pastry will do. Others embrace modern interpretations, from miniature “snack” versions to raw vegan adaptations (charmingly called “Rawbergs”). No matter the take, one thing is certain: Runeberg tarts are a serious business in Helsinki.
Tortes of Helsinki
Runeberg
Where to find the best Runeberg tortes in Helsinki
During Runeberg season, these iconic pastries can be found all over Helsinki, from local bakeries and cosy neighbourhood cafés to market halls and grocerie store counters. But if you want to taste the torte at its very best, it’s worth seeking out the places that bake them with extra care, tradition, or a creative seasonal twist.
From historic institutions that helped popularise the pastry in Helsinki to scenic coffee spots and modern favourites, these seven addresses are some of the best places in the city to enjoy a Runeberg torte this winter.
1. Ekberg 1852 – Helsinki’s original Runeberg torte
If you want to try a Runeberg torte in its most traditional setting, start at Ekberg. Founded in 1852 and still on the same spot on Bulevardi street, this is Helsinki’s oldest bakery and one of the places most closely associated with the pastry’s rise in the capital.
Expect a rich, classic version served in an elegant café atmosphere that feels like stepping into old Helsinki.
Tip: Visit earlier in the day — Ekberg’s seasonal pastries are popular, especially on weekends.
2. Café Engel – A torte with a view of historic Helsinki
Situated by the Senate Square, Café Engel is a perfect stop for a Runeberg torte while exploring Helsinki’s most iconic sights. The setting is cosy yet refined, and the tortes here pair beautifully with a slow coffee break after a winter walk through the city centre.
A great choice if you want tradition with a touch of atmosphere.
3. Way Bakery – Modern bakery with three locations
Way is one of Helsinki’s most loved contemporary bakeries, known for artisanal breads, excellent coffee, and seasonal pastries with a modern edge. You can find Way in three different parts of the city:
- Kallio, the original neighbourhood spot
- Herttoniemi, with a relaxed community feel
- Vanha Kauppahalli, Old market hall near the iconic Kauppatori outdoor market by the sea
Way’s Runeberg tortes often come with a slightly creative twist — perfect if you want something classic but not old-fashioned.
Tip: Availability can vary by location, so morning visits are your best bet!
4. Café Regatta – A seaside winter café experience
Few places in Helsinki feel as charming in winter as Café Regatta. This small red cottage by the sea in Töölö is a local institution, and enjoying a Runeberg torte here feels like a true Helsinki moment.
Pick up your pastry, warm your hands around a hot drink, and take a walk along the shoreline or towards the Sibelius Monument.
Best for: combining your torte with a winter outing.
5. Cajsan Helmi – A torte with tea-room elegance
& sweet
Cozy
Tucked beside Kaisaniemi Park, Cajsan Helmi is one of Helsinki’s most atmospheric cafés, with roots stretching back centuries.
This is the place to slow down: enjoy your Runeberg torte with a carefully chosen tea blend, espresso, or even something sparkling. The setting feels peaceful, historic, and perfect for a mid-winter treat.
Tip: A lovely stop after a stroll through the park.
6. Eromanga – A local favourite
Eromanga is a beloved Helsinki bakery known for traditional handcrafted pastries made fresh each day. Their Runeberg tortes are classic, generous, and deeply rooted in everyday Finnish baking culture.
This is a great option if you want something authentic and local — the kind of place Helsinkians stop by for their regular coffee-and-cake moment.
7. Stockmann Runeberg torte pop-up – a limited-time seasonal bonus!
If you want to sample several versions of Runeberg tortes in one convenient stop, head to Stockmann’s flagship department store in the city centre.
This year, Stockmann is hosting a special Runeberg torte pop-up featuring treats from local bakeries and pastry chefs — perfect for takeaway, gifting, or tasting a few different styles in one place. In 2026, the pop-up is open until 8 February, making it a final sweet stop after Runeberg Day.
Best for: variety, convenience, and a last-chance seasonal treat.
