Finnish bar culture is unusual even today, but I do recall when I first came to Finland in the early 90's how strict the rules were compared to the United Kingdom.
Do Finns love their pubs?
Oh yes, but it wasn't always that way, because for 1919 to 1932 alcohol could not be purchased in Finland. So, unlike the UK or Germany that had a long history of social drinking in public house, the Finns had to reinvent the concept in there own light.
If you have ever lived or even travelled to Finland you may of heard this expression about how Finns see their own drinking culture. It goes something like this:
A person who is under the table is not drunk, only the person who cannot order from under the table is drunk!
From tradition to the modern pub
All types of pubs can be found in Finland. For those who prefer a more traditional experience, there are the classic “kuppilat”, or pubs. These local watering holes that sometimes only sell beer and low alcohol beverages. The are an interest place to take have beer or two and meet the locals. It is unlikely that the quality of English will be low, but when someone has had enough to drink they will give you their life story. In some cases, especially in the countryside the local pub will open for breakfast, offer a set lunch, have sports on the weekend, and even have weekly discos and karaoke nights.
After many years in Finland there is a kind of nostalgia about the "kuppila". It doesn't pretend to be anything more than it is. Often the décor is cheap or tacky with a disco ball twinkling in the afternoon and a 4pm karaoke. Any friends that live in Finland you all know what I mean.
Since about 2000 there has been a rise in micro brewers in many of the major city as well as on the island of Suomenlinna a short boat trip from Helsinki. This has bought about the development of the craft pubs, which has also influence more interest in wines and cocktails. Unlike in the past the young Finns of today do not drink like the older generation did. The young are almost embarrassed about their parents drinking habits. This is why many youngers are looking for a different place to meet friends. They are more willing to spend more on good beer and wine while drinking less.
Also the establishment are different. They often have relax environment where board games are available and jazz music plays in the background. In addition, many modern quality pubs offer good coffee or tea as an alternative to alcohol. The atmosphere is very good for meeting and talking with friends rather than partying until dawn.
The final development is the cellar bar “olutkellarit”. There is some similarities to the previous example, however these bars are influenced by the German type bars. Often these bars sell a great selection of food and a large choice of craft beers and wines. Everything in these bars says low key and quality. The bar staff normally know what they are selling so they will be able to share the vast knowledge of the beers on offer,
The final option is of course the British or Irish pub, Most major cities in Finland have an British or Irish pub, but if you are from the UK or Ireland please wait until you return home are experience the Finnish pub you will not be disappointed.
Final words
Regardless where you choose to drink in Finland always try the local options. If you are not sure ask the staff and they will point you in the right direction. However, before you go, here is a little advise. Bars or any place you can purchase alcohol in Finland by law must ask for your ID (Passport) if you look under 30 years old, so don't leave home without it.
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