Must-try Dishes
Vine Leaf Rolls - Vinaari Nisu (stuffed grape leaves) - Tender grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and sometimes minced meat, simmered in a light broth. Typical at family gatherings, they’re best enjoyed warm and usually paired with a dollop of sour cream.
Black Bread – Rukkileib (rye bread) - Dense and hearty, this dark bread features rye flour and is often served with butter or cheese. Locals love to have it as a breakfast staple, sometimes topped with sliced tomatoes or cucumbers.
Estonian Meat Pie - Liha Pirukas (savory pastry) - A flaky pastry filled with minced pork or beef, often seasoned with onions and spices. You'll find these in bakeries or markets, perfect for a quick lunch on the go as you stroll through town.
Smoked Fish - Suitsusild (Cold-smoked herring) - Rich and flavorful, this herring has a distinctive smokiness that’s achieved through a slow, traditional smoking process. Often enjoyed as a starter or light dinner, it's a beloved Parnu specialty, especially by the seaside.
Potato and Herring Salad - Kartuli Hering Salat (potato-herring salad) - A surprising mix of boiled potatoes, herring, beets, and pickles, all dressed with sour cream. It’s usually served during festive occasions, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Espresso and Fish Casserole - Kohvikala (coffee fish casserole) - A quirky combination where tender fish meets a rich espresso-infused sauce, baked to perfection. Commonly served in casual eateries, it offers an unexpected yet satisfying culinary experience.
Mushroom Soup - Seenesupp (creamy mushroom soup) - Made with wild mushrooms, cream, and fresh herbs, this soup is rich and comforting, typically enjoyed during the colder months. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it's often a go-to during mushroom foraging season in late summer.
Savory Pancakes - Karpikaera (savory pancakes) - Made from buckwheat flour and filled with sautéed mushrooms, these pancakes are soft and filling. Locals often savor them for breakfast or a casual dinner, sometimes topped with creamy goodness.
Desserts & Drinks
Kohvi - Kohvi (Estonian coffee) - Boldly brewed coffee often served with a touch of cream or milk. Locals love to enjoy this at home during long winter evenings, especially when paired with good company and hearty conversations.
Vaarikajook - Raspberry Drink (refreshing berry beverage) - A sweet and tangy non-alcoholic drink made from locally sourced raspberries, sugar, and water, served chilled. It’s a popular choice at summer festivals, and you might just get a complimentary pastry on the side to enjoy with it.
Õlu - Beer (local lager) - Light, crisp beer made from barley hops, often brewed by local artisans. You’ll find it flowing in the pubs on cozy evenings, especially during Midsummer celebrations, when locals raise a toast to the bright nights.
Maakuke - Maria's pastry (traditional cake) - A light and fluffy sponge cake, usually layered with fresh berries and whipped cream. Often served at family gatherings, it’s a delicious treat that captures the spirit of Estonian hospitality.
Jäätis - Ice Cream (creamy frozen dessert) - Rich and creamy ice cream often infused with local flavors, such as cloudberry or blackcurrant. Best enjoyed from street vendors during summer, locals often grab a scoop while strolling along the beach promenade. By the way, avoid asking for anything too exotic like chocolate – they love sticking to classic flavors here!
