A Blissful Dinner from the 'Happiest Country in the World'! Finland Invites the World to Its First-Ever Official Tasting Table

Credit: Visit Finland

Finland, which has been named the 'happiest country in the world' for nine consecutive years in the UN World Happiness Report, will host its first official global tasting experience, 'Finland’s Official Tasting Table.' This four-day limited event is designed to promote the charm of Finnish food culture—the 'last hidden culinary destination in Europe'—to a global audience, and anyone can apply.

The venues will be stunning locations that Finland is proud of. In environments where the scenery itself becomes part of the menu—such as a dining table on an uninhabited island or in the middle of the Arctic wilderness—chefs and producers who support Finnish food culture will serve as hosts, providing guests with an authentic and multi-sensory food experience.

While Finland has long been known globally as the 'happiest country,' its culinary culture has not yet been widely recognized. 'Finland’s Official Tasting Table' is a new initiative to share this unique and rich food culture with the world.

In September 2026, two special tasting experiences will be held in the 'Coastal and Archipelago' region and Lapland. A total of 16 guests will be invited. Interested participants can apply via HaveSomeFinnish.com.

Each tasting menu is supervised by leading local chefs and expresses the authentic food culture unique to each region. The content provides a glimpse into the culinary charms that travelers can experience across Finland.

Credit: Visit Rovaniemi

Finnish chefs re-imagining local culinary charms rooted in the community

To explore the origins of Finnish food culture, Visit Finland asked local residents, including fishermen, producers, and cooks, about 'the flavors unique to their region.' Based on thousands of responses, Finland's leading chefs have created special tasting menus for 'Finland’s Official Tasting Table.'

Heli Jimenez, Senior Director of International Marketing at Visit Finland, stated:

'Finland is like the "last unknown food culture" in the global culinary scene. While Italian, Chinese, and even other Nordic cuisines are already widely known, Finnish food has not yet been sufficiently introduced. As food enthusiasts around the world continue to search for the next big thing, Finland has the charm to meet those expectations. It is characterized by pure ingredients sourced from nature, such as wild game and fresh seafood, and simple cooking methods that highlight the original taste of the ingredients.'

A special dining experience at the edge of the world

What Finland offers is a special journey to experience the 'source of happiness' with all five senses, beyond just a meal. The stage is set in beautiful locations surrounded by the rich nature unique to Northern Europe. The silence and atmosphere there are never just a backdrop; they are deeply integrated into the flavor of each dish.

Finnish food culture is deeply connected to sustainability and simplicity. Experiences such as cooking in a sauna, foraging in nature, and the connection with the people who nurture and deliver the ingredients create a unique story. At 'Finland’s Official Tastings,' these authentic dishes, regional stories, and beautiful landscapes come together to provide an immersive dining experience that will be etched into a lifetime of memories.

'Finnish cuisine embodies the world's happiest lifestyle. It is rooted in a connection with nature, simplicity, and a deep respect for the roots of ingredients. From food customs related to sauna culture to the culture of gathering natural blessings, Finnish cuisine has stories like no other. We want visitors to experience those stories to the fullest,' said Heli Jimenez.

'Finland’s Official Tasting Table' Overview

- The 'Have Some Finnish' tasting event is scheduled to be held in Finland in September 2026.
- Tastings will take place in two locations: the Coastal and Archipelago area and Lapland.
- Application Period: Monday, May 18, 2026, to Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 11:59 AM (Finland Time / EEST).
* In Japan time, until 17:59 on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.