Sahanlahti Resort wins Finland's top food tourism award

The Hungry for Finland competition has selected the country’s best food tourism experiences from a pool of 141 contestants. The top prize was awarded to the Pajapirtti open-fire dinner at Sahanlahti Resort in Puumala, South Savo. The winning experience was praised by judges for being immersive, sustainable, and narrative-driven, featuring local ingredients and cooking over an open fire in a historical cabin.

Taiga Times, based in Helsinki, secured second place with its ‘Baltic Bites – Food & Island Experience’ located in Pihlajasaari. Third place went to Restaurant Solitary in Rantasalmi, a fine dining establishment noted for its surprise menu and overall experience.

Honorable mentions were awarded to Ravintola Elsa in Hannukainen, Vaski Cider & Distillery in Salo, and The Finnish Porridgebar By N4KU in Helsinki. The awards ceremony was held at Helsinki City Hall and presented by Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Sari Essayah. The competition is part of Finland’s food tourism strategy for 2024–2028 and a promotional campaign by Visit Finland.