Savor Authentic Flavors On An Unforgettable Finland Journey

Posted onAuthorChris Owen

  • Nationwide survey data shaped the authentic campaign tasting menus
  • Exclusive culinary events host sixteen international social media applicants
  • Award-winning chefs design regional menus for unique dining backdrops
  • Arctic and coastal ingredients highlight local, nature-inspired traditions

Visit Finland has officially launched Have Some Finnish, a vibrant international culinary tourism campaign that invites food enthusiasts from around the world to discover the country’s rich gastronomic heritage. While Finland is globally celebrated as one of the happiest countries, this fresh initiative aims to elevate its international culinary profile by showcasing seasonal ingredients, nature-inspired cooking, and deep-rooted traditions. The campaign offers global travelers an exclusive opportunity to apply for a seat at unique tasting dinners helmed by leading Finnish chefs.

aurora borealis over snowy lapland landscape
Photo by Sergey Guk on Pexels.com

The culinary journey features two headline tasting events scheduled for September 2026. One dinner takes place in the picturesque Coast and Archipelago region, while the other unfolds in the breathtaking wilderness of Lapland. Eight international guests will be selected for each event through online and social media applications. To ensure authenticity, Visit Finland conducted a nationwide survey in January 2026, gathering insights from thousands of residents on the flavors that best define Finnish food culture. These responses directly influenced the creation of the menus in collaboration with renowned chef and restaurateur Henri Alén.

elegant man posing in paris wine cellar
Photo by Abdelmoughit LAHBABI on Pexels.com

Representing the coastal region, acclaimed chef Erik Mansikka has crafted a contemporary summer menu featuring refined interpretations of classic salmon soup, archipelago bread, and cured whitefish, all to be enjoyed aboard a boat. In contrast, chef Joel Manninen brings the Arctic landscape to life in Lapland, utilizing traditional open-fire cooking to highlight ingredients like reindeer, Arctic char, and wild cloudberries. By blending pristine natural settings with innovative, authentic flavors, Visit Finland is positioning gastronomy as a premier reason to explore the country.