For nine consecutive years, Finland
has been identified as the world’s happiest country in the UN World Happiness
Report. But now, the Nordic nation hopes travelers will also be drawn by one of
its best-kept secrets: its food.
Visit Finland has
unveiled a new culinary tourism campaign called Finland's Official
Tasting Table, an initiative that will bring 16 international travelers to
the country this September for an immersive, all-expenses-paid adventure
focused on the destination’s unique cuisine.
The four-day
experience is designed to showcase authentic Finnish cuisine, local traditions
and the landscapes that influence what ends up on the dinner table. While
Finnish food remains relatively under the radar internationally, tourism
officials believe that's exactly what makes it appealing.
"Finland is
your chance to discover the final great secret of the world's culinary
cultures. Italian, Chinese, even the other Nordic food cultures are already
part of the global conversation, while Finnish cuisine remains unknown,"
said Heli Jimenez, Senior Director, International Marketing at Business
Finland. "In an era where foodies are constantly searching for the next
big thing, Finland is exactly that: pure ingredients from local nature, like
wild game and fresh fish, and unpretentious, simple recipes."
Travelers selected
for the program will choose between two distinct regional experiences.
One itinerary will
explore Finland's Coast and Archipelago region, which Afar
describes as an area known for its rugged Baltic coastline, historic seaside
communities and thousands of islands. The culinary program there will be
created by acclaimed chef Erik Mansikka, founder of the Michelin-starred
Restaurant Kaskis in Turku.
The second
experience takes place in Lapland, Finland's northernmost region, where Arctic
scenery, reindeer culture and northern lights define the experience. The menu
for that tasting will be crafted by chef Joel Manninen, who won the Finnish
Young Chefs Championship in 2025 and currently serves as head chef at Sky
Kitchen & View in Rovaniemi.
The tasting menus
themselves were inspired by thousands of responses collected from Finns across
the country, including fishermen, farmers, home cooks and local residents who
shared what flavors best represent their regions.
While specific
dishes have not yet been revealed, travelers can likely expect ingredients
deeply tied to each destination. Coastal menus may feature fresh seafood,
smoked fish and hearty rye breads, while Lapland's offerings could spotlight
reindeer, Arctic char, wild berries and foraged mushrooms.
The experience
extends beyond the dining table, too. Participants will also be introduced to
elements of everyday Finnish life through activities such as sauna sessions,
nature excursions and regional sightseeing.
Applications are
open through June 9 at HaveSomeFinnish.com.
Interested travelers can apply individually or with a companion by submitting a
short video on Instagram or TikTok explaining why they want to "Have Some
Finnish," while using the hashtag #HaveSomeFinnish and tagging Visit
Finland.
Just eight guests
will be selected for each itinerary, with winners announced on June 29.
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