Estonian cuisine is a fascinating blend of rustic tradition, Nordic influences, and farm-to-table freshness. If you’re an adventurous eater or a cultural explorer, Estonia’s food scene will captivate your taste buds with its unique flavors and deep-rooted history. From indulgent sweets to rich, slow-cooked meats, here’s a foodie’s guide to the most iconic Estonian dishes and flavors you simply can’t miss.
For More Estonian experiences, check out our article on Saaremaa Island or the Best Winter Activities in Estonia.
1. Kohuke – A Delightful Chocolate-Covered Treat
Kohuke is a beloved Estonian snack made of sweetened curd cheese coated in chocolate. Available in flavors like vanilla, strawberry, and salted caramel, this treat is a perfect grab-and-go option for travelers. You’ll find them in nearly every grocery store, and locals often enjoy them with coffee for a quick energy boost.
2. Mulgikapsad (Pork and Sauerkraut) – A Comfort Food Classic
A traditional Estonian comfort food, mulgikapsad is a slow-cooked dish made with sauerkraut, pork, and barley. It’s typically served with boiled potatoes, making it a hearty and satisfying meal—especially during Estonia’s cold winters. If you want to try an authentic version, visit Vanaema Juures in Tallinn, a cozy spot known for its home-style Estonian cooking.
3. Verivorst (Blood Sausage) – A Festive Favorite
If you’re visiting Estonia during Christmas, don’t miss verivorst. This blood sausage, made with barley, blood, and pork, is a holiday staple, often served with lingonberry jam and sauerkraut. Many families still make their own from scratch, keeping this centuries-old tradition alive. For the best verivorst, visit the Christmas Market in Tallinn’s Old Town Square.
4. Kama – Estonia’s Unique Superfood
Kama is a traditional Estonian blend of roasted barley, rye, and peas, often mixed with buttermilk or yogurt. Some locals even stir it into coffee for an extra kick! Known for its high nutritional value, kama is a favorite among health-conscious Estonians. If you want to try it in a more modern twist, Komeet Café in Tallinn offers a delicious kama-based dessert.
5. Kiluvõileib (Sprat Sandwich) – A Baltic Delight
This popular open-faced sandwich features buttered rye bread topped with smoked sprats, boiled eggs, pickles, and fresh herbs. A staple in Estonian households, it’s often served at celebrations. For the freshest kiluvõileib, visit Balti Jaama Turg, Tallinn’s famous market where you can sample a variety of local specialties.
6. Estonian Meat Dishes – Hearty and Flavorful
Estonians enjoy a variety of meat dishes, with pork being the most commonly consumed. Popular dishes include:
- Seapraad (Roast Pork) – A flavorful, slow-cooked dish often served with potatoes and sauerkraut.
- Sealihapada (Pork Stew) – A comforting and rich meal, perfect for cold weather.
- Venison and Moose – Game meats are popular in rural areas, offering a unique taste of Estonia’s forests. Fun fact: Estonia has a strong hunting culture, and wild game meats are considered a delicacy, often found in high-end restaurants like NOA Chef’s Hall.
7. Sült (Aspic) – A Traditional Cold Dish
Sült is a traditional Estonian aspic made by cooking pork and setting it in gelatin. Typically served cold with mustard or horseradish, it’s a favorite during holiday feasts. While it may seem unusual to some, sült is a cherished dish in Estonia, with many locals enjoying it as a nostalgic comfort food.
8. Kartulipuder (Mashed Potatoes) – The Ultimate Comfort Food
Mashed potatoes are a staple in Estonian cuisine, often served as a side dish to meat stews and roasts. Made with butter and milk, Estonian kartulipuder is creamy and rich. Some locals add fried onions or a hint of smoked bacon for extra flavor. You’ll often find it on the menu at traditional Estonian eateries like Kaerajaan in Tallinn.
9. Tallinn Black Balsam – Estonia’s Signature Herbal Liqueur
A famous Estonian digestif, Tallinn Black Balsam is made from a blend of herbs and spices. Locals believe it has medicinal properties and drink it to aid digestion or even ward off colds. You can try it straight or in a cocktail at bars like Põhjala Tap Room, where they mix it with craft beer for a unique twist.
10. Piparkoogid (Gingerbread Cookies) – A Holiday Treat
These spiced gingerbread cookies are a holiday favorite, often shaped into festive forms and decorated with icing. Baking piparkoogid is a cherished family tradition in Estonia, with secret spice blends passed down through generations. If you visit Tallinn in December, you’ll find beautifully decorated versions sold at the Christmas Market.
11. Estonian Cheese – A Taste of Local Dairy
Estonia produces a variety of delicious cheeses, with two of the most popular being:
- Leibjuust (Rye Cheese) – A flavorful cheese often paired with rye bread.
- Suitsujuust (Smoked Cheese) – A rich and smoky cheese that’s perfect for snacking. Fun fact: Estonia’s dairy industry is one of the oldest in Europe, with cheesemaking traditions dating back hundreds of years!
12. Lingonberry Jam – A Tart and Versatile Side
Lingonberries play a big role in Estonian cuisine. Their tart flavor is used in jams, sauces, and desserts, and they’re often served alongside pork dishes and blood sausages to balance the richness of the meat. If you’re hiking through Estonia’s forests in the late summer, you might even spot locals foraging for wild lingonberries.
Experience Estonia’s Rich Culinary Heritage
From hearty meat dishes to sweet indulgences, Estonian cuisine offers a delicious blend of traditional flavors and locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re exploring Tallinn’s cozy cafés or venturing into the countryside, be sure to sample these must-try dishes for an authentic taste of Estonia.
Estonians have a deep-rooted connection to nature, and this is reflected in their cuisine. Whether it’s wild-foraged berries, smoked fish from the Baltic Sea, or age-old Christmas traditions, every dish tells a story. So, when you visit Estonia, don’t just eat—immerse yourself in the flavors, history, and culture that make this country’s food so special.