7 stylish must-try spots for after-work drinks in Helsinki

A refreshing cocktail or a sumptuous glass of wine may be one of the best ways to unwind after a busy day at the office. While 'after-work' culture is big across Scandinavia, it is particularly popular in Helsinki, and come early evening, bars and terraces swiftly fill up with cheerful people kicking back with friends and colleagues.

The Finnish capital boasts several great spots for ambient post-work drinks and nibbles; however, a few bars have cemented their status as the places to go once the work day winds up. From large, atmospheric terraces to quaint cocktail bars below, Vogue Scandinavia has listed the ultimate after works in Helsinki.

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A lively courtyard terrace amid stunning Art Noveau buildings in central Helsinki, Grotesk is a steadfast favourite for post-work drinks in the city. Going straight after work is recommended as long queues form at the door later in the evening. Offering a broad selection of fresh cocktails, beers, wines and non-alcoholic beverages, Grotesk caters for any kind preference of drink, as well as nibbles for those who are feeling peckish after work.

In addition to their excellent options for beverages and food, Grotesk holds extremely popular live music gigs, and regular DJ sets are organised throughout the summer - the venue will always offer the most bustling atmosphere on any day of the week. Sip a cocktail while listening to a rising Finnish star sing, or have a little groove on the dance floor to shake off a stressful day at the office.

Ludviginkatu 10, 00130 Helsinki

Situated on one of the largest terraces in town, great after-work vibes are guaranteed at Siltanen. Located in Helsinki’s trendiest area of Kallio, Siltanen is one of the most stylish spots for socialising with co-workers while enjoying post-work drinks. Although the bright two-storey terrace may be Siltanen’s main attraction (especially during scorching summer days), the venue also boasts an inside space that turns into a lively club once the terrace shuts down at 10pm.

With eclectic interiors, disco balls hanging from the ceiling, great live gigs, and DJs throughout the week, Siltanen’s bar is the perfect place for after-work even in temperamental weather.

Hämeentie 13 B, 00530 Helsinki

A quaint, in-the-know cocktail bar in the heart of Helsinki, Goldfish is where the city’s most innovative cocktails are served and enjoyed in the most stunning settings. The venue’s moody interiors make the perfect place for intimate post-work drinks that can be savoured with a selection of Italian nibbles offered by the bar. In its drinks and food, seasonality is vital for Goldfish, and the ever-changing, innovative cocktail list will surely provide a beverage that your taste buds haven’t experienced before. If you would instead go for a classic, the bartenders are sure to fulfil your needs while also tailoring any cocktail to your liking.

If you’re not in the mood for a cocktail, don’t worry – Goldfish also offers an extensive selection of wines, champagne and beers, alongside non-alcoholic options.

Korkeavuorenkatu 21, 00130 Helsinki

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Famous for uniting great food and drinks with Finland’s sauna tradition, Löyly also provides a wonderful after-work environment. With its large terrace overlooking the deep blue sea, it’s hard to find a more scenic setting for a catch-up post-work in the city. If the terrace is too packed or the weather turns, the cosy inside space will offer an atmospheric alternative.

At Löyly, you can sip everything from classic cocktails to a broad selection of wines and beers, and from their menu, you’ll find everything from small snacks to hearty main courses including Finnish favourites such as Löyly’s signature creamy salmon soup. If the temperatures hit high, cool down with a swim in the ocean, or if you’re looking to spice up your after-work, book a sauna for you and your colleagues.

Hernesaarenranta 4, 00150 Helsinki

Located in Helsinki’s most hip district of Kallio, Harju 8 is the fashion insiders’ hot spot for laid-back post-work drinks (or any kind of socialising, for that matter). Boasting a small terrace and an inviting, beautifully decorated interior space, Harju 8 makes the ideal place for an intimate gathering after work. With delicious signature cocktails and a wine list offering a broad selection of natural wines, Harju 8 is amongst the most popular bars in town. The cherry on top? A mouth-watering menu with everything from fresh salads to wholesome pasta dishes.

Although an after-work doesn’t usually occur on a Sunday (at least for most of us), it’s worth mentioning that every summer Sunday, Harju 8 hosts a Park Jam, where for three hours, a live jazz band plays in the restaurant’s terrace, nearing small lush greenery. If you wish to secure a table for the Park Jam, arriving hours early is recommended; however, a table isn’t necessary – people grab drinks and gather around the band, finding a seat on the grass or even on the pavement.

Harjutori 8, 00500 Helsinki

A cosy and intimate venue in Helsinki's charming area of Töölö, Apotek is ideal for wine lovers’ after-work. The wine bar is located where a historic pharmacy used to reside in the early 20th century, and although the Art Nouveau building has gone through an extensive renovation since its pharmacy days, it still exudes the historical feel and a relaxed, retro vibe.

As you would expect from a bar dedicated to serving wine, Apotek’s impressive wine list has options for everyone - bottles from all the most outstanding vineyards in the world, and smaller, organic producers. To complement the wines, Apotek’s head chef Ville Rainio has compiled a selection of entrées crafted from seasonal ingredients and ideal to be shared with your party.

Lapinlahdenkatu 1, 00180 Helsinki

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For an atmosphere that will transport you across the Atlantic and straight to the trendy bars in Brooklyn, head to Liberty or Death - an intimate cocktail bar ideal for a small post-work gathering. With the bar’s focus on serving creative and fun cocktails tailored to guests' tastes, a drink for everyone’s preference can be created.

Liberty or Death is also big on sustainability, making ingredients for their drinks in-house to avoid unnecessary waste. For non-alcoholic drinkers, a broad range of mocktails are available. Inventive cocktails, dim lighting, dark-toned interiors and live music will create an after-work experience you’ll want to return to.

Erottajankatu 5, 00130 Helsinki