15 Best Culinary Schools in Finland 2023

In this article, we have carefully researched and compiled the top culinary schools in Finland, the different cuisines taught, the most popular dishes in Finland, as well as the most famous restaurants in Finland.

Finland is renowned for its innovative cuisine and has a thriving food culture. The country is home to a number of top-notch culinary schools that provide training for aspiring chefs and cooks. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, these schools offer a variety of programs to help you take your culinary skills to the next level.

Table of Contents

Food Culture in Finland

Food culture in Finland is characterized by its emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients and traditional dishes. Finnish cuisine is heavily influenced by the country’s history and geography, as well as its proximity to neighboring countries such as Sweden, Norway, and Russia.

In Finland, fresh, seasonal ingredients are highly valued, and many restaurants source their ingredients from local farmers and fishermen. Traditional Finnish dishes often feature wild game, such as reindeer and elk, as well as fish, berries, and root vegetables. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in Nordic cuisine, with many restaurants offering contemporary takes on traditional Finnish dishes.

Breakfast is an important meal in Finland and typically consists of a hearty meal of porridge, bread, and dairy products. Lunch is also an important meal, and many Finns take a lunch break from work to enjoy a meal with friends or colleagues.

Finns also enjoy traditional holiday meals, such as Midsummer’s Eve, which is celebrated with a barbecue and drinks, and Christmas, which is celebrated with a festive feast of ham, root vegetables, and rice pudding.

In terms of dining out, Finns tend to be fairly discerning diners and place a high value on quality and service. There is a growing interest in international cuisine, with many restaurants serving a wide range of cuisine, from Italian to Indian.

Overall, the food culture in Finland is diverse and dynamic, with a strong emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients and traditional dishes, as well as a growing interest in international cuisine and innovative cooking techniques.

Cuisines taught in culinary schools in Finland

Below are some of the cuisines taught in culinary schools in Finland;

Finnish cuisine
European cuisine
Asian cuisine
Mediterranean cuisine
Pastry and dessert making
Baking
Modern culinary techniques
French cuisine
Scandinavian cuisine
Middle Eastern cuisine
Italian cuisine
Mexican cuisine
Indian cuisine
African cuisine
Latin American cuisine
Seafood cuisine
Grilling and barbecue
Vegetarian and vegan cuisine
Gluten-free and special dietary needs cuisine
Sushi and Japanese cuisine

Most expensive foods served in Finland

The cost of food can vary greatly in Finland, and the most expensive dish will depend on a number of factors such as the type of restaurant, the ingredients used, and the location. However, some dishes that are known for their high cost include:

Caviar: High-end restaurants in Finland may serve caviar, which is a luxury food made from the eggs of sturgeon fish.
Truffles: Another luxury ingredient, truffles are sometimes used in high-end dishes in Finland and can be quite expensive.
Game dishes: Game meats, such as reindeer, elk, or wild boar, can be more expensive than traditional meats due to the difficulty of hunting and sourcing these ingredients.
Seafood dishes: Fresh seafood, especially exotic or hard-to-find species, can be quite expensive in Finland.

We found the dishes mentioned above to be the most expensive in Finland but always remember the most expensive dish will depend on the specific restaurant and ingredients used. But it’s worth noting that, in general, eating out in Finland can be relatively expensive compared to other countries.

Cheapest foods in Finland

In Finland, you can find a range of food options at different price points, including some that are quite affordable. Some of the cheapest foods you can find in Finland include:

Falafel: This is a popular fast food option in Finland, and you can often find it sold at street food stalls and kebab shops for a relatively low price.
Pizza: This is a very popular food in Finland and is often available at budget-friendly prices at fast-food chains and local pizzerias.
Kebab: This is another popular fast food option, kebab is often sold at street food stalls and kebab shops, and can be a budget-friendly option.
Porridge: This food is a staple in Finnish cuisine, and it can be a cheap and filling breakfast or lunch option, especially when made with oats and other inexpensive ingredients.
Soup: Soup is a popular option in Finland, and it can be a budget-friendly way to get a warm, filling meal.

There are many other budget-friendly options available in Finland, including local grocery stores and supermarkets, where you can purchase ingredients to cook at home.

Salary of a Chef in Finland

The salary of a chef in Finland can vary depending on a number of factors, including their experience, the type of establishment they work in, and the region in which they work.

Overall, the salary of a chef in Finland can be competitive, but it’s also a demanding profession that requires a high level of skill and dedication. According to recent data, the average salary for a chef in Finland is approximately €2,500 to €3,500 per month.

However, head chefs or executive chefs at high-end restaurants can earn significantly more, with salaries ranging from €3,500 to €6,000 or more per month.

Many chefs in Finland work long hours, including weekends and holidays, so it’s important to take this into consideration when evaluating salary expectations.

List of the Culinary Schools in Finland

There are many culinary schools in Finland, below is the list of the 15 best recommended culinary schools in Finland but that doesn’t limit the quality of education and service offered in other culinary schools that is not part of the list.

Helsinki Vocational College (HVC)
Turku Vocational Institute (TVI)
Savonia University of Applied Science
Tampere University University of Applied Sciences
Kokkola University Consortium Chydenius
Pori Art School
Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences
Jyväskylä University of Applied Sciences
Lapland University of Applied Sciences
Vaasa University of Applied Sciences
Oulu University of Applied Sciences
Central Ostrobothnia University of Applied Sciences
Satakunta University of Applied Sciences
Mikkeli University of Applied Sciences
Karelia University of Applied Sciences

Helsinki Vocational College (HVC)

This college is a leading vocational college in Helsinki that offers a variety of culinary programs. Its courses are designed to provide hands-on experience and cover a wide range of topics, including pastry arts, food preparation, and kitchen management.

Turku Vocational Institute (TVI)

This institute is a well-respected culinary school located in Turku. The institute offers a variety of programs, including professional cooking courses, bakery courses, and restaurant management courses.

Savonia University of Applied Sciences

Savonia is a comprehensive university of applied sciences that offers culinary arts programs in both full-time and part-time formats. The school’s curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from cooking techniques and recipe development to food service management and catering.

Tampere University of Applied Sciences

Tampere University of Applied Sciences offers a range of culinary arts programs, including professional cooking courses, bakery courses, and catering courses.

The school’s experienced faculty and state-of-the-art facilities provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the culinary world.

Kokkola University Consortium Chydenius

Kokkola University Consortium Chydenius offers culinary arts programs that focus on both traditional and modern cooking techniques.

The school’s curriculum covers everything from basic cooking skills to advanced culinary arts, and students have the opportunity to participate in hands-on cooking and baking sessions.

Pori Art School

This School is a well-known culinary school that offers programs in both professional cooking and bakery arts. The school’s curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from recipe development and food preparation to kitchen management and customer service.

Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences

This university offers a range of culinary arts programs, including professional cooking courses, bakery courses, and catering courses. The school’s experienced faculty and state-of-the-art facilities provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the culinary world.

Jyväskylä University of Applied Sciences

This university of Applied Sciences is a comprehensive university of applied sciences that offers culinary arts programs in both full-time and part-time formats.

The school’s curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from cooking techniques and recipe development to food service management and catering.

Lapland University of Applied Sciences

Lapland University of Applied Sciences offers a variety of culinary arts programs, including professional cooking courses, bakery courses, and catering courses.

The school’s experienced faculty and state-of-the-art facilities provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the culinary world.

Vaasa University of Applied Sciences

This is a comprehensive university of applied sciences that offers culinary arts programs in both full-time and part-time formats. The school’s curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from cooking techniques and recipe development to food service management and catering.

Oulu University of Applied Sciences

This university is among the best culinary schools in Finland. It offers a variety of culinary arts programs, including professional cooking courses, bakery courses, and catering courses. The school’s experienced faculty and state-of-the-art facilities provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the culinary world.

Central Ostrobothnia University of Applied Sciences

Central Ostrobothnia University is among the best culinary schools in Finland. It is a comprehensive university of applied sciences that offers culinary arts programs in both full-time and part-time formats.

The school’s curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from cooking techniques and recipe development to food service management and catering.

Satakunta University of Applied Sciences

This is a well-respected culinary school in Finland that offers a variety of programs, including professional cooking courses, bakery courses, and catering courses.

The school’s experienced faculty and state-of-the-art facilities provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the culinary world.

Mikkeli University of Applied Sciences

Mikkeli University of Applied Sciences offers a range of culinary arts programs, including professional cooking courses, bakery courses, and catering courses.

The school’s experienced faculty and state-of-the-art facilities provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the culinary world.

Karelia University of Applied Sciences

Karelia University isamong the best culinary schools in Finland. It is a comprehensive university of applied sciences that offers culinary arts programs in both full-time and part-time formats.

The school’s curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from cooking techniques and recipe development to food service management and catering.

Top 10 most famous Restaurants in Finland

Below are the top ten most famous and popular restaurants in Finland;

Olo: This is an expensive restaurant in Helsinki that specializes in contemporary Finnish cuisine. The menu features locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes that showcase the best of Finnish flavors.
Juuri: This is a very popular restaurant in Helsinki that serves traditional Finnish food with a modern twist. The menu features dishes such as Finnish meatballs, smoked fish, and hearty stews, as well as vegetarian and vegan options.
Palace Gourmet: This is a beautiful restaurant in Helsinki that specializes in French cuisine, offering classic dishes such as escargot, bouillabaisse, and duck confit. The restaurant has a chic, upscale atmosphere and a wine list that features carefully selected French wines.
Savoy: This restaurant is a high-end restaurant in Helsinki that offers traditional Finnish cuisine with a gourmet twist. The menu features dishes such as reindeer fillet, smoked salmon, and cloudberry dessert, and the restaurant has a sophisticated, elegant atmosphere.
Baskeri & Basso: This is a popular restaurant in Helsinki that serves Italian cuisine. The menu features classic dishes such as pasta, pizza, and risotto, as well as a selection of seasonal specialties. The restaurant has a cozy, rustic atmosphere, and is known for its friendly service and affordable prices.
O’Leary: O’Learys is a chain of sports bars in Finland that offers a menu of American-style comfort food, such as burgers, ribs, and wings. The restaurants have a lively, casual atmosphere and are a popular spots for watching sports and socializing with friends.
Kuu: This restaurant is a high-end sushi restaurant in Helsinki that offers a menu of traditional and contemporary Japanese dishes. The restaurant has a sleek, modern atmosphere and is known for its carefully crafted sushi rolls and sashimi platters.
Teatteri: Teatteri is a restaurant in Helsinki that specializes in Mediterranean cuisine, offering dishes such as paella, moussaka, and grilled seafood. The restaurant has a cozy, intimate atmosphere and is known for its friendly service and affordable prices.
Demo: This restaurant is a contemporary Finnish restaurant in Helsinki that offers a menu of modern Nordic cuisine. The menu features seasonal ingredients and innovative dishes, as well as a selection of craft beers and wines.
Grill it!: This restaurant is a chain of grill restaurants in Finland that offers a menu of steak, burgers, and other grilled dishes. The restaurants have a casual, family-friendly atmosphere and are known for their affordable prices and generous portions.

Some frequently asked questions

What are the admission requirements for culinary schools in Finland?

The admission requirements for culinary schools in Finland may vary between schools, but typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required. Some culinary schools may also require proof of proficiency in Finnish or Swedish, as these are the official languages of Finland.

Are there any specialized culinary schools in Finland, such as pastry or wine schools?

Yes, there are specialized culinary schools in Finland that focus on specific areas such as pastry, wine, or restaurant management. These schools offer specialized courses and training in the specific area of focus.

What type of degrees or certifications can be obtained from culinary schools in Finland?

? Culinary schools in Finland typically offer vocational degrees or certificates in the culinary arts. Some culinary schools may also offer degrees or certifications in hospitality or restaurant management.

How long does it typically take to complete a culinary education in Finland?

The length of time to complete a culinary education in Finland may vary between schools and programs, but typically it takes 2-3 years to complete a vocational degree or certification program in the culinary arts.

What is the cost of attending culinary school in Finland?

The cost of attending culinary school in Finland can vary depending on the institution and program. Some culinary schools in Finland may be state-funded and therefore tuition-free, while others may require tuition fees.

Do culinary schools in Finland offer internships or work placement opportunities?

Yes, many culinary schools in Finland offer internship or work placement opportunities as part of their programs. These opportunities provide students with hands-on experience in the culinary industry and can help them establish connections for future employment.

What is the job market like for culinary graduates in Finland?

The job market for culinary graduates in Finland is competitive, as there are many qualified candidates for a limited number of positions. However, there is a growing demand for culinary professionals in the country, especially in the hospitality and tourism industry.

Are there any culinary schools in Finland that offer English-taught programs for international students?

? Yes, there may be culinary schools in Finland that offer English-taught programs for international students. These programs are designed for students who are not fluent in Finnish or Swedish.

Are there any notable alumni from culinary schools in Finland?

Yes, there are notable alumni from culinary schools in Finland, including prominent chefs and restaurateurs who have gained recognition for their culinary skills and contributions to the industry.

What types of cuisine are taught at culinary schools in Finland, and how does the curriculum reflect the local food culture?

Culinary schools in Finland typically teach a variety of cuisines, including traditional Finnish cuisine and international cuisine. The curriculum often reflects the local food culture and ingredients, as well as the latest trends and techniques in the culinary industry.

Conclusion

These are some of the best culinary schools in Finland that offer comprehensive training and hands-on experience for aspiring chefs and cooks. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, these schools offer a variety of programs and scholarships to help you take your culinary skills to the next level.