Good food is an essential part of a good life and a great vacation. The food on the island is pure and authentic Northern European food, locally sourced. Saaremaa neither makes nor offers anything bland. The forest and sea play an important role in locals’ diets.
In grocery stores, we prefer and recommend that you choose products labelled with the EHTNE (‘authentic’) certificate so you can enjoy the best flavours and best gifts our forests have to offer. Many cafés and restaurants source their food from local farms, often giving the name of the farm on the menu. The crisp sea air fills the islanders with interesting culinary ideas, so let them treat you! Both our pan bread and sour gruel are waiting to be tried.
Visit Saaremaa recommends
All food establishments
- Pihtla küla, Saaremaa vald
- Kipi küla, Saaremaa vald
- Ohessaare küla, Saaremaa vald
- Kuressaare linn, Saaremaa vald
- Kudjape alevik, Saaremaa vald
- Kuressaare linn, Saaremaa vald
- Lilbi küla, Saaremaa vald
- Kuressaare linn, Saaremaa vald
Classic Island flavours
Saaremaa has long been known for its smoked fish, home brew and dark bread. All these delicacies can still be enjoyed here today. Fish is the centrepiece of local tables: a source of pride for every family and worth oh so much. All of this is appreciated by our local restaurants, too. Thousands of herring, garfish and flounder emerge from the island’s smouldering ovens during summer. On a particularly good day, you might even spot a few smoked eels in the mix. Our delicious home-brewed beer has recently found its way onto the menus of Saaremaa’s finest restaurants as well. A local brew holds a special kind of power. Home-baked bread, which is the pride of every farmer’s wife, is also held in high regard.
Estonian culinary region 2024
Saaremaa, Muhu and Ruhnu can proudly announce that they have been chosen as the Estonian culinary region of the year. This remarkable recognition underscores the islands’ rich culinary culture and commitment to local food traditions. Isolation has taught the locals to make do with what they have, but also to be clever and resourceful in everything they do: an ability to use all that nature has to offer and to live in a way that makes sure there is enough for tomorrow. Sustainability is therefore the focus of this food region. Without a doubt, Saaremaa, Muhu and Ruhnu offer the most maritime- and island-based flavours in Estonia, opening up an exciting new angle in the promotion and presentation of local food.
Award-winning restaurants
The Falstaff Nordic Restaurant Guide quality label is clear proof that the islanders no longer subsist on potatoes alone! This prestigious recognition shows that Saaremaa and Muhu have developed a rich and diverse food culture that can compete at the international level. This year, 12 restaurants on the islands have been recognised by the Falstaff Nordic Restaurant Guide, which is a remarkable achievement that confirms the high quality and commitment of these restaurants. They offer a special culinary experience, often using fresh local ingredients that reflect the unique flavours and traditions of the region. Their menus are inspired by both local and international cuisine, offering guests a distinctive and truly memorable experience. You can find out more about the restaurants recognised by Falstaff here.
Town and country
Places to eat on Saaremaa are concentrated in the capital, Kuressaare. This is where you’ll find the most cafés and restaurants, offering a wide range of flavours. The town’s broad selection ranges from cosy cafés where you can enjoy delicious coffee and pastries to upscale restaurants offering elegant dinners. You won’t go hungry outside the capital either, and things get particularly busy in the summer months when summer cafés open up all over the island. At this time of year, romantic little cafés where the hosts themselves prepare and serve homemade delicacies can be found almost everywhere on the island. These home-style venues frequently offer unforgettable flavours and the warm hospitality typical of locals. Summer food culture on Saaremaa is rich and varied, offering enjoyable and memorable experiences for all visitors.
Authentic island produce
The islanders prefer to buy local, and Saaremaa’s natural produce is gaining more and more recognition beyond its borders. In addition to fish, lamb and vegetables, many kitchens and store shelves are increasingly filled with delicious jams, preserves and sauces all made on our islands. In stores you’ll recognise these delicacies by the little blue sticker bearing the words Ehtne toode (‘authentic product’). The best food spots use products with this label to prepare their food, thereby supporting local life.
Fun fact
The only Michelin-starred restaurant on Estonia’s islands is Restaurant Alexander at Pädaste Manor, home to Estonia’s only 5-star hotel outside Tallinn.