Traditional Estonian cuisine: Discover the unique flavors of Estonia’s national dishes and drinks. From black bread and smoked fish to sauerkraut and juniper-flavored schnapps, explore the best places to try them and savor the taste of Estonia.

Exploring Estonian Eats: Traditional Dishes and Drinks to Try and Where to Find Them

Estonia is a small country located in Northern Europe, known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and unique culture. One of the most important aspects of Estonian culture is its cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the country’s history and geography. In this article, we will explore some of the traditional dishes and drinks of Estonia, and where you can find them.

One of the most popular dishes in Estonia is black bread, or “leib” in Estonian. This bread is made from rye flour and is known for its dark color and dense texture. It is often served with butter or cheese, and is a staple in Estonian households. If you want to try some of the best black bread in Estonia, head to the town of Tartu, where you can find a bakery called Leib Resto Ja Aed. This bakery is known for its delicious bread, as well as its other traditional Estonian dishes.

Another traditional Estonian dish is “mulgikapsad,” which is a type of sauerkraut stew. This dish is made with sauerkraut, pork, and potatoes, and is often served with black bread. It is a hearty and filling meal, perfect for cold winter days. If you want to try some authentic mulgikapsad, head to the town of Viljandi, where you can find a restaurant called Fellin. This restaurant is known for its traditional Estonian cuisine, and its mulgikapsad is a must-try.

If you’re looking for something sweet, try “kama,” which is a type of Estonian porridge. Kama is made from a mixture of roasted barley, rye, and peas, and is often served with milk or yogurt. It is a popular breakfast food in Estonia, and is also enjoyed as a snack. If you want to try some kama, head to the town of Pärnu, where you can find a cafe called Supelsaksad. This cafe is known for its delicious kama, as well as its other traditional Estonian treats.

When it comes to drinks, one of the most popular in Estonia is “kali,” which is a type of fermented bread drink. Kali is made from black bread, water, and yeast, and is often sweetened with sugar or honey. It is a refreshing and slightly sour drink, perfect for hot summer days. If you want to try some kali, head to the town of Tallinn, where you can find a bar called Põhjala Tap Room. This bar is known for its craft beers, as well as its traditional Estonian drinks like kali.

Another popular Estonian drink is “võrukael,” which is a type of herbal liqueur. Võrukael is made from a mixture of herbs, including thyme, mint, and chamomile, and is often served as a digestif. It has a strong and slightly bitter flavor, and is a favorite among Estonians. If you want to try some võrukael, head to the town of Võru, where you can find a bar called Kannel. This bar is known for its traditional Estonian drinks, and its võrukael is a must-try.

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience in Estonia, try “kohvikud,” which are traditional Estonian cafes. Kohvikud are known for their cozy atmosphere and delicious food, and are a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. If you want to visit a kohvik, head to the town of Haapsalu, where you can find a cafe called Evald. This cafe is known for its traditional Estonian dishes, as well as its beautiful interior.

Overall, Estonian cuisine is a unique and delicious blend of traditional and modern flavors. Whether you’re looking for hearty stews, sweet porridges, or refreshing drinks, Estonia has something to offer. So if you’re planning a trip to Estonia, be sure to try some of the traditional dishes and drinks, and explore the country’s rich culinary history.