A Culinary Journey into the Heart of Finnish Design at the Marimekko Canteen
To walk through Helsinki is to immerse oneself in a world where everything—the hue of the sky, the clean lines of the architecture, the very air people carry themselves in—feels like a deliberate piece of a grand design. For me, CityNomix, someone who spends his days in the logical realm of digital marketing, this city is a sensory playground, a place that unlocks creativity and sparks new inspiration. The pinnacle of my recent journey here was a visit to the headquarters of Marimekko, the iconic design house that has become synonymous with Finland itself.
When most people think of the Marimekko headquarters, the adjacent outlet store is likely the first thing that comes to mind. And while that was certainly on my agenda, another, more intriguing destination had captured my imagination: Maritori, the company canteen. This is a place primarily for employees, yet it generously opens its doors to the public. It’s a chance to dine in the creative heart of the brand.
This is far more than just a place to eat. It’s an opportunity to breathe the same air and share the same food as the people who bring Marimekko’s vision to life. You could say it’s a way of experiencing the brand’s philosophy through your taste buds—a truly unique and immersive cultural experience.
I had a very specific reason for choosing a Thursday for my visit. After some diligent research on the official Maritori website, I discovered that Thursday’s dessert was the one and only Finnish pancake, or Pannukakku. With my plan set and anticipation building, I boarded the metro, heading for the Herttoniemi district, ready for my much-anticipated Marimekko Helsinki lunch.
Beyond the Minimalist Façade: Your Guide to the Marimekko Helsinki Lunch Experience
A short 15-minute metro ride from Helsinki’s central station, Herttoniemi has a calmer, more local vibe than the bustling city center. From the station, it’s about a ten-minute walk to the Marimekko headquarters. Following my Google Maps, I soon spotted a modern building, its simple yet powerful presence unmistakable.
The silver ‘marimekko’ logo gleamed above a glass entrance, a beacon for design lovers worldwide. Stepping inside felt like entering the brand’s universe. To the left was the outlet store; to the right, my destination: Maritori. The atmosphere was calm and welcoming, a perfect prelude to the experience ahead.
How the Maritori Buffet Works: No Reservations Needed
One of the best things about Maritori is its accessibility; no reservations are required. During the weekday lunch rush, you’ll find a pleasant mix of employees, local fans, and travelers like myself. Upon entering, you’re greeted by a charming, hand-written menu board and a sleek digital sign.
The chalkboard details the day’s lunch specials with cute illustrations, adding a personal touch. Meanwhile, the digital screen provides clear, practical information in both Finnish and English, including pricing and allergy details. This blend of analog warmth and digital efficiency feels quintessentially modern Finnish.
The process is straightforward. First, you pay for your lunch at the register near the entrance. You can choose between a full lunch or a lighter soup and salad option. After paying, you’re free to find a seat. I highly recommend securing your spot before heading to the buffet, especially during peak hours. The window-side sofa seats are particularly popular, so it’s wise to claim one with your bag or jacket.
I was lucky enough to snag a cozy sofa seat by a large window, with a view of gently swaying birch trees. Settling in with an Unikko-patterned cushion, I was ready for the culinary adventure to begin. The space itself is bright, open, and infused with an understated Scandinavian elegance.
Exploring the Buffet: What to Eat at the Marimekko Canteen
With my seat secured, I made my way to the buffet line. Maritori is celebrated for the quality and variety of its offerings, and the salad bar was the first thing to impress. It was a colorful spread of fresh greens, cucumber, tomatoes, roasted cauliflower, potato salad, and a quinoa mix. Each dish was simple yet flavorful, highlighting the freshness of the ingredients.
A generous selection of bread, including fragrant baguettes and bagels, was also available. It’s these small touches that showcase the richness of Nordic food culture.
Next, I moved on to the hot food station. On this day, the main course options were a Texas chili and a feta and zucchini pasta. Unable to decide, I opted for a small portion of each. The staff kindly serves the hot dishes for you, a thoughtful detail that ensures everything is presented perfectly and at the right temperature.
My tray was a vibrant mosaic of colors and textures: a creamy pea soup, the savory chili, the tangy pasta, and a heaping plate of fresh salad. Every single item tasted homemade and was crafted with care, far exceeding the expectations of a typical staff canteen. I couldn’t help but feel a little envious of the Marimekko employees who get to enjoy this daily.
A friend who visited on another day chose the curry and reported that it was equally delicious, proof that the menu consistently delivers. The changing daily specials are a great incentive to return.
The Thursday Special Maritori is Famous For: The Perfect Finnish Pancake
After savoring the main courses, it was time for the moment I had been waiting for: the legendary Finnish pancake Maritori serves on Thursdays. I approached the dessert station and was met with a truly glorious sight.
A large platter was piled high with golden-brown squares of Pannukakku. Beside it were bowls of vibrant red berry jam and fluffy whipped cream. And the best part? It was all-you-can-eat. This was truly the pinnacle of the Marimekko cafe dessert experience.
I carefully placed a slice on my plate, adding a generous dollop of both jam and cream. Unlike American pancakes, Finnish pancakes are baked in the oven, giving them a dense, custardy texture and a rich, eggy flavor. It’s a simple, rustic dessert, but utterly unforgettable. The combination of the warm pancake, tart jam, and cool cream was heavenly.
This is, without a doubt, the best Pannukakku in Helsinki I have ever had. It alone is worth planning your visit for a Thursday. In fact, I’d argue it’s worth booking a flight to Helsinki for.
Planning Your Visit: A Marimekko Helsinki Lunch FAQ
To help you make the most of your own visit to Maritori, I’ve compiled this practical FAQ section based on my experience. Consider it your guide to a perfect day of design and dining.
How to Check the Menu
The weekly lunch menu is available on the official Maritori website, in both Finnish and English. I recommend checking it in advance to see if they’re serving a Finnish classic you’d like to try, such as Lohikeitto (salmon soup) or, of course, the Thursday Pannukakku.
Visit the official Maritori website
Are Seconds Allowed?
Yes! It’s a buffet, so you can enjoy as much salad, bread, soup, and dessert as you like. While it’s best to check with the staff before going back for more of the hot main course, refills are generally fine within reason. The all-you-can-eat Finnish pancake is a dream come true for anyone with a sweet tooth.
How to Get to the Marimekko Headquarters
The easiest way to reach the Marimekko building is by metro from the Central Railway Station. Take either the M1 (towards Vuosaari) or M2 (towards Mellunmäki) and get off at the “Herttoniemi” station. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk. You’ll cross a major road (Itäväylä) and head into a light industrial area. Using Google Maps is highly recommended to avoid getting lost.
Google Map:
Weekend Opening Hours
Please note that both the Maritori restaurant and the headquarters outlet store are typically open on weekdays only. Always double-check the current opening hours on the official website before you go, especially the specific lunch service times. If you’re in Helsinki over a weekend, you can explore the Marimekko flagship stores in the city center.
Shopping at the Marimekko Outlet
A visit to the Marimekko outlet is the perfect complement to your lunch. You can find clothing, fabrics, and home goods from previous seasons at discounted prices. It’s a treasure hunt for design lovers, and you might discover a rare find. It’s an essential part of the headquarters experience.
Tax-Free Shopping Information
Purchases made at the outlet are eligible for tax-free refunds. If you spend over the minimum amount, present your passport at checkout to receive the necessary paperwork. For a detailed guide on the process, please refer to our dedicated article on the topic.
[Related Article] A Shopper’s Guide to the Marimekko Outlet in Helsinki
Final Thoughts: A Truly Unforgettable Marimekko Helsinki Lunch
My visit to Maritori was more than just a meal; it was a multisensory immersion into the world of Marimekko. To enjoy a beautifully prepared, authentic Finnish meal in a space buzzing with creative energy is a special kind of travel magic. And finally tasting that famed Thursday pancake was a moment of pure, delicious triumph.
If you’re traveling to Helsinki, I wholeheartedly recommend adding a Marimekko Helsinki lunch at Maritori to your itinerary. It will enrich your trip and give you a taste of Finnish culture that is both authentic and inspiring. Paired with some shopping at the outlet, it’s the perfect Photomo-style day, celebrating the intersection of design, food, and culture.
