Amazing, amazing, simply amazing! This place is nothing less of excellent (which is saying a lot, because I don't normally opt to eat at hotel restaurants).
I dined here with a buddy as we stayed at Sokos Vaakuna during our two-day visit to Helsinki. Originally, we were planning to have some good Mediterranean, vegan-friendly food (which Finland does very well) a few blocks down, but when my friend mentioned the beautiful terrace view of the city, and a look of sheer enthusiasm came across his face, I suggested that perhaps we give this scenic restaurant a go. I figured, "Worse comes to worse, I can order a ton of charbroiled veggies like I did at the first restaurant we ate at in Helsinki". But no, this was not the case, Loiste has not one, but TWO vegan dinner options to choose from. I was ELATED.
Needless to note, I went with my usual choosing mechanism when in uncertainty and asked the server her recommendation; there was a Herb-Crusted Tofu Burger and a Beet-Quinoa Loaf to choose from. She said sweet potato fries always sold her on the burger, and quite frankly, the same happened to me when first reading the description of the item. I am just indecisive and love server's opinion!
We ordered (my buddy got some steak entree with potatoes and veggies). The wait wasn't long, and even if it had been, we wouldn't have minded because enjoying the city view is part of the experience. I had already done a thorough, hours long exploration of Helsinki earlier on, but sitting down and just taking in the people, infrastructure and nightlife was a treat in itself.
Food arrives, and my fingers are ready to start the grubbing. My friend looked ready to chow down as well.
My burger didn't just look phenomenal, it tasted PHENOMENALl; from the light herb-crusting to the seasonings mixed into it, the tofu patty was perfectly prepared. The bread was also tasty, which for whole wheat at a restaurant, was a pleasant surprise (most restaurants I have been to before offer subpar wheat bread options). The mayo, whatever is in that mayo was divine. It really helped make the burger. I could have slathered that on the sweet potato fries and been a happy camper. Now, on to the fries; fresh, a well-balanced seasoning, and not overly greasy--perfection! I can see why the server pressed so hard for them; these are some of the best sweet potato fries I have ever consumed. I am not even a big fan of sweet potato fries, but these were great! All in all, this was one of the best meals I had in Finland. My friend was smiling throughout his whole meal, so that must mean something.
So, five stars for ambiance, food, and the best view of Helsinki one can probably get while dining. I would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone; whether you're staying in the Sokos Hotel, any of its sister chains blocks down, or just strolling by in Helsinki and looking for a memorable meal. read more