Although pepper steak is said to be the national food of Finland, there is hardly any good steak…read morerestaurants in the whole country. Hmmm.. ?
Grilli Toro, an icon of Espoo, has been serving good steaks at a casual environment for over 40 years (it opened in 1970). Most people that live in the capital have heard of this place and quite a few have even visited it (there is only one location). The restaurant is located at next to a small food market in a residential area. If you are not from the area, you would never find yourself just casually walking or driving by.
No matter who you are (vegetarians excluded), you will love this place. The atmosphere couldn't be more casual. During weekday lunches there are executives from the large corporations (Nokia, Kone) sitting next to construction workers. You hardly see this anywhere else.
So.. why do people from such various backgrounds go and eat at an off-key place which, for most people, is definitely not close to where they live or work? Simply, for good steak and huge portions. The steaks are big (yes even by American standards), delicious, and most of all the prices are reasonable.
I'm a fan. Whenever I'm not in Finland, this restaurant is the one that I miss the most. If you are in Finland and you would like to get a good steak at a casual environment, this is your place. You won't be disappointed.
Oh yeah.. Why am I not giving this place five stars? Well, because of the open hours. They are only open until 8pm, even during the weekends. Keep in mind that on Saturdays and Sundays they open at 2pm, which is super late for lunch.