Ice Hockey World Championship - Meet the host

P R E & A F T E R GA M E

PRIVATE OWNED RESTAUR ANTS IN TAMPERE

ALSO

Ice Hockey World Championship - Meet the host -

Publication week 19

Distribution 15 000 copies

Magazine stands in Tampere city centre, Scandic Hotels in the Pirkanmaa region

Publisher Media Potentia Oy Hämeenkatu 26, 4th floor 33200 Tampere 0400 772 229 www.mediapotentia.fi

Print Sanoma Manu Oy

Editor in chief Petri Kaukonen 0400 770 203 petri@mediapotentia.fi

Editors Elina Salmi 045 276 5998 toimitus@mediapotentia.fi

Marja Haavisto 045 276 6021 marja.haavisto@mediapotentia.fi

Sales Jaakko Lehtonen 045 220 1060 jaakko.lehtonen@mediapotentia.fi

Layout Media Potentia Oy tuotanto@mediapotentia.fi

Cover

Photo: Visit Tampere, Laura Vanzo

Photo: Visit Tampere, Laura Vanzo

Photo: VisitTampere, Laura Vanzo

Photo: Visit Tampere, Laura Vanzo

Meet your host, Tampere

Tampere, located in western Finland, is a vibrant and charming city that offers a unique blend of history, sports, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the "Manchester of Finland" for its industrial past, Tampere has since transformed into a modern and cosmopolitan city that still retains its historic charm. With picturesque lakes, stunning architecture, and a thriving food and drink scene, Tampere has a lot to offer.

Tampere is a vibrant city in southern Finland, known for its unique blend of natural beauty and industrial charm. The city is situated between two large lakes, Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi, which provide a stunning backdrop for its lively urban culture.

Tampere was founded in 1779 as a market town by the Tammerkoski rapids. The rapids provided a source of hydropower that helped the city grow into an industrial powerhouse

during the 19th century. Today, Tampere is a thriving city with a population of nearly 250,000 people.

The city's industrial past is still evident in its architecture, with many of the old factory buildings having been repurposed into cultural centers, galleries, and museums. Along with repurposed industrial buildings, you will find the center of the city to be full of beautifully ornate stone buildings that tell the city’s history.

Tampere-seuras executive director HannaLiisa Onnela describes Tampere as a big city in miniature size.

– Tampere has the atmosphere and opportunities of a big city, but it’s very walkable and has great public transportation. The people of Tampere are extremely approachable and easy going. There’s a no nonsense attitude about them - they are proud of their city, but not arrogant, Onnela comments.

TEXT MARIA VAKKANEN PHOTOS VISIT TAMPERE

Photo: Visit Tampere, Laura Vanzo

Nokia Arena

Photo: Visit Tampere, Skyfox, Marko Kallio

Hometown rivalry

There is one thing that truly sets Tampere apart from other cities in Finland, and that is its passion for ice hockey.

Ice hockey is a deeply ingrained part of Finnish culture, and Tampere is no exception. The city has two professional ice hockey teams: Tappara and Ilves. These teams are fierce rivals, and their matches between them are always a major event in the city.

Nokia Arena, located in the heart of the city, is the home arena for both teams, and it's a place where local fans and tourists alike come together to experience the thrill of ice hockey.

– Ice hockey in Tampere has deep roots, at all levels of the sport. Tampere as a city has really put its best foot forward in supporting our future star players by maintaining an excellent network of both indoor and outdoor skating facilities, Onnela explains.

Your host arena

Nokia Arena is a brand new, state-of-the-art facility that can seat up to 15,000 spectators. The arena is equipped with modern technology, including a giant screen that displays the game in high definition. The stadium also features a variety of amenities, such as restaurants, bars, and shops, which make it a great place to spend time with friends and family.

Nokia Arena is not only a place for ice hockey games, but it's also a venue for other events. Concerts, exhibitions, and conferences are often held in the arena, making it a versatile and dynamic space that is always buzzing with activity.

Tampere welcomes you

Tampere is one of the fastest growing cities in Finland, and is ranked as the most attractive city for Finns moving from one city to another. The ever-evolving city is “the city that dared”, according to Onnela.

Onnela doesn’t hesitate when she’s asked about her favorite thing about Tampere.

– The people, and their easy going nature.

And her best tip for anyone visiting the city?

– Be your authentic self. Feel free to approach people, and ask for help if you need it, she says.

On the rare occasions when there isn’t an ice hockey game going on, Tampere has plenty to offer. This magazine is full of tips on where to eat, drink and shop, as well as what to do when you’re not at Nokia Arena.

Tampere welcomes you to enjoy the magic of the International Ice Hockey Championship of 2023!

Nokia Arena is a brand new, state-of-the-art facility that can seat up to 15,000 spectators.

Tasting Tampere:

Exploring the Dynamic Pub Culture and Vibrant Restaurant Scene of Finland's Hidden Gem

With a thriving pub culture and a diverse restaurant scene, there's something for everyone in Tampere. From local delicacies to international flavors, Tampere offers a unique culinary experience.

TEXT MARIA VAKKANEN PHOTOS VISIT TAMPERE, LAURA VANZO

Mustamakkara with lingonberry jam, the must-try dish

Tampere

Pyynikin Munkkikahvila, famous for its traditional doughnuts (or 'munkki')

Great Beers - Small Breweries festival

Tampere is a city that has something to offer for everyone when it comes to food and drink. Whether you're looking for fine dining, casual eats, or unique drinking experiences, you'll find it all in this Finnish city. – There truly is something for everyone to enjoy in terms of food in Tampere. The restaurant scene is constantly evolving, and we’re seeing a lot of new restaurants pop up, describes local restaurateur Marika Tähtinen-Hakala

Something old and something new

Finnish cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh, local ingredients, particularly fish, berries, and mushrooms. At its core though, everyday Finnish food is hearty and flavorful.

Tampere's restaurants and cafes are known for serving up traditional Finnish dishes with a modern

twist. One must-try dish local to Tampere specifically is mustamakkara, a black sausage made from pork, blood, and barley. Tähtinen-Hakala confirms that locals hosting visitors from abroad often request mustamakkara specifically to serve for their guests.

– Occasionally we see some funny faces upon tasting mustamakkara, but it is indeed very popular and most tourists enjoy it as well. There’s a somewhat similar dish in Scottish cuisine, black pudding, but overall it has quite a unique taste, says Tähtinen-Hakala.

In addition to being known for mustamakkara, Tampere is famous nationwide for its love for chicken wings. Chicken wings in Tampere are often coated in a spicy, tangy sauce rather than a crispy crust. For authentic Tampere wings, head to Siipiweikot, Hook or Sticky Wingers.

– No other city in Finland eats chicken wings like we do, let’s be honest, Tähtinen-Hakala comments with a laugh.

Comfort food favorites

Plevna, a brewery restaurant that Tähtinen-Hakala runs, also serves other traditionally Nordic foods such as salmon soup, pyttipannu and meatballs. Pyttipannu is a traditional Finnish dish that roughly translates to "small pieces in a pan". It's a hearty and rustic dish that's typically made by frying together diced potatoes, onions, and meat (usually beef or pork) in a pan until crispy and golden brown. Some variations may also include other ingredients such as carrots, pickles, or even leftover vegetables.

Other classic Finnish dishes include karjalanpaisti, a hearty meat and vegetable stew that is slow-cooked for hours and kalakukko, a fish-filled pastry that is traditionally baked over an open fire. Finnish cuisine also features a range of seafood dishes, including gravlax (cured salmon), smoked fish, and creamy fish soups. Reindeer meat is also a common ingredient in Finnish cuisine, often served with lingonberry sauce. ›

In addition to being known for mustamakkara, Tampere is famous nationwide for its love for chicken wings.

Chicken wings at Siipiweikot

Ultra-local drafts

Tähtinen-Hakala describes Tampere’s pub scene as diverse, with some establishments focusing on high quality products and service, and others choosing to be competitive with tempting pricing.

Pub Oluthuone serves beer brewed at Plevna, and is a great spot for watching sports while you enjoy a pint of local beer. Make sure to taste the lager specifically brewed for this year's ice hockey championship games - the Hockey lager.

– I would also recommend our brewery mead, which is brewed with hops, sugar and honey. If mead isn’t

Top Restaurants in Tampere:

your thing, you could go for our most famous beerthe Siberian stout, Tähtinen-Hakala mentions.

Dessert is served

For those with a sweet tooth, Finnish cuisine offers a variety of treats, including pulla (a sweet cardamom bread), korvapuusti (cinnamon rolls), and karjalanpiirakka (savory rice or potato pastries). Tampere has a strong coffee culture, and you'll find many cafes and bakeries serving up fresh-baked pastries and delicious coffee drinks. Finnish coffee is typically strong and

brewed using a drip coffee maker.

For excellent coffee and local foods, stop by Tampere's Kauppahalli, or Market Hall. It has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century, and offers an abundance of fresh and locally sourced produce, meats, cheeses, seafood, and artisanal goods.

Overall, Finnish cuisine is rich and diverse, offering a unique blend of traditional cooking methods and fresh, local ingredients.

Here's a list of some of the top restaurants and bars that you should check out during your stay in Tampere.

›

1. Näsinneula Restaurant - This rotating restaurant, located in the Näsinneula observation tower, offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding landscapes. The menu features modern Nordic cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

2. Plevna Brewery Restaurant - This historic brewery restaurant is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The menu features classic Finnish dishes, and the beer selection is extensive. Plevna also offers beer flights for tasting.

3. Hella & Huone - This cozy fine dining restaurant is located in

the heart of the city and serves up delicious, rustic Finnish cuisine with a modern twist.

4. Ristorante Pizzeria Napoli - This Italian restaurant is known for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven. The restaurant also offers a range of classic Italian dishes. Napoli is widely regarded as one of the best pizzerias in Tampere - perhaps even in the entire country, if you ask the locals.

5. Bistro C - This restaurant focuses on fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere is elegant and welcoming.

Make sure to taste the lager specifically brewed for this year's ice hockey championship games - the Hockey lager.

Plevna Brewery Restaurant

Photo: Plevna

HOKI LAGER AVAILABLE AT PLEVNA AND OLUTHUONE.

COME TO WATCH THE GAME OME

THE ALL HOCKEY CHAMPIONSHIP 2023 GAMES WILL BE SHOWN IN OLUTHUONE.

ALL FINLAND GAMES WILL BE SHOWN IN PLEVNA.

Top Bars in Tampere:

1. Moro Sky Bar - This rooftop bar, located at the top of Sokos Hotel Torni, offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape. The bar features a wide selection of cocktails, wines, and beers.

2. H5 - This hip bar and restaurant is located in the heart of Tampere and offers a range of craft beers and cocktails. At night, H5 is one of the most popular clubs among locals.

3. Bar Ihku - This trendy bar is located in the heart of the city and is known for being the place to go if you want to try out some

karaoke.

4. Oluthuone - This cozy bar is located on Tuomiokirkonkatu, which served as one of the main event streets for the Ice Hockey Championships last year. Oluthuone serves locally brewed, high quality beer and is a great spot for watching ice hockey games.

5. Telakka - This alternative bar is located in an old warehouse building and features live music, DJ sets, and other events. The bar has a relaxed and bohemian vibe and is a popular spot for locals.

Sunset at Moro Sky Bar

Tampere is a charming Finnish city that truly comes alive in the springtime, with an abundance of activities and sights to explore during the month of May. Whether you're a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or a foodie, Tampere has something to offer for every traveler. In this article, we've rounded up the top things to see and do during your visit to Tampere this May.

May is a wonderful time to visit Tampere, Finland, as the weather starts to warm up and the city comes alive with springtime activities and events. Tampere Region Festivals’ executive director Tiina Kuusisto considers Tampere to be Finland’s unofficial event capital.

– There’s so much going on here.

Tampere as a city is the perfect sizeeverything is very easily accessible either by walking or public transport.

Tampere hosts a diverse array of events, but I would say that events held here are a little more laid back than elsewhere. Another defining feature would have to be our venues - Tampere is full of cultural venues that are repurposed indus-

trial or other types of historic buildings, Kuusisto describes.

Great destinations for an afternoon

Top Activities and Sightseeing Opportunities for Your Springtime Visit in Tampere ›

Pyynikki Observation Tower is a go-to sight for locals when deciding where to take their guests from out of

town. Pyynikki Observation Tower offers panoramic views of Tampere and its surroundings. Located on top of the Pyynikki ridge, this historic tower offers stunning views of Lake Näsijärvi and the city skyline. After enjoying the view, treat yourself to a delicious doughnut from the tower's cafe, which is known for its famous Pyynikki doughnuts. The

TEXT MARIA VAKKANEN PHOTOS VISIT TAMPERE, LAURA VANZO

Viikinsaari with Hopealinjat

EXPERIENCE THE FINNISH LAKELAND!

Admire the scenery and enjoy restaurant services on a 2 hour day cruise!

Come enjoy a delicious lunch on the fresh waters or relax with a drink while taking in the beautiful lakeside scenery. Our two-hour cruise on Lake Pyhäjärvi is a feast for many senses. You can enjoy our restaurant services or just come aboard for the views, the open air and the marvelous vista over the south side of Tampere.

Setting sun and modern evening cruise!

Dine on the lake and admire the sun as it sets. A delightful evening is guaranteed as the wondrous lake vistas, the warm service and the delicious food come together. The boat’s fully licensed restaurant provides drinks, wines and delicious dinner service from buffet. We aspire to provide a modern Finnish cuisine especially suited to the scenery

Viikinsaari Island is the perfect lake experience

The most beautiful and fascinating summer oasis of Tampere provides the impeccable setting for a day trip with the family or a picnic with friends. Viikinsaari is a lovely summer oasis just twenty minutes away from the Laukontori harbor. The oldest summer restaurant of

The departboatsfrom Laukontori at the center Tampereof

THE RED MACHINE

observation tower is located in the picturesque area of Pyynikki, which is a sight in itself to walk through.

Right by Pyynikki, you will find Pispala, which is a charming district located in the city of Tampere, Finland. Pispala is known for its distinctive wooden houses, narrow streets, and bohemian atmosphere, which have made it a popular destination for artists, writers, and creatives. The district has a rich history, with many of its buildings dating back to the 19th century, and has a unique character that sets it apart from other areas in Tampere. Pispala is also home to numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars, where visitors can enjoy traditional Finnish cuisine and beverages.

Näsinneula is another famous observation tower located in Tampere, Finland, and is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. The tower stands at a height of 168 meters, making it the tallest observation tower in the Nordic countries. Visitors can take a lift to the top of the tower, where they can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the stunning Lake Näsijärvi and the city of Tampere. The observation deck also features a rotating restaurant, which offers delicious cuisine and stunning views of the landscape below.

Events

During your stay in May, there are two events being held at the same time – Tanssivirtaa (25.-31.5.) and Suuret Oluet, Pienet Panimot (25.-27.5.). Tanssivirtaa is an event centered around modern dance, put together by dance theater MD. Suuret Oluet, Pienet Panimot is a celebration of beer from artisanal and small breweries, held at Ratina.

Activities

Explore Tampere Market Hall

- The Tampere Market Hall, or Kauppahalli, is a bustling indoor market that offers a wide variety of local produce, artisanal goods, and traditional Finnish delicacies. Take a stroll through the market's colorful aisles and sample some smoked salmon, reindeer meat, or Karelian pies.

Take a Hiking Trip - May is a great time to explore Tampere's beautiful natural surroundings. Pack a picnic and head to one of the many hiking trails in the area, such as the Pyynikki Ridge Trail or the Seitseminen National Park. These trails offer stunning views of the Finnish countryside and are perfect for a day trip. Seitseminen is located about an hour’s drive from Tampere.

For a more laid back day trip, look for boats leaving for Viikinsaari from the Laukontori harbor. Viikinsaari is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a range of activities and attractions throughout the year. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy

swimming in the lake, sunbathing on the sandy beaches, and exploring the lush forests that cover the island. There are also numerous hiking and biking trails that wind their way through the landscape, offering stunning views of the surrounding scenery.

Enjoy Tampere’s bustling Club Scene - G Livelab is a diverse, higher end club that features jazz, pop, and rock among other genres. Located right by each other are Tullikamarin Klubi and a recently opened Tavara-Asema. If you're looking for more classical live performances, head to the Tampere Theatre or the Tampere Philharmonic Orchestra.

Discover Tampere's Art Scene - Tampere has a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and theaters to explore. Check out the Tampere Art Museum for contemporary Finnish art, or the Vapriikki Museum Centre for exhibitions on Finnish history and culture. Vapriikki features an exhibition about ice-hockey, among other themes. Located close to Vapriikki, you can also find Werstas, which is a Finnish labour museum. For those traveling with younger children, or who are young at heart, the Moomin Museo located at Tampere-talo is worth seeing.

Last, but not least – try a Sauna Experience. No trip to Finland is complete without experiencing the country's famous sauna culture. Tampere offers numerous public saunas and spas, such as the Rajaportti Sauna, which is the oldest public sauna in Finland.

– Tampere sees tourists coming all the way from the capital city, Helsinki, just to enjoy Rajaportti’s unique atmosphere, Kuusisto says.

Sauna restaurant Kuuma is a more modern option located right in the heart of Tampere. Aside from its saunas, Kuuma is known for an excellent cocktail menu and delicious food. There’s also an outdoor pool at Kuuma, where you can cool off after enjoying the sauna.

For a truly authentic experience though, head to Rauhaniemi sauna in the Kauppi area. Rauhaniemi is considered one of the city's most beloved cultural landmarks. The sauna is situated on the shore of Lake Pyhäjärvi, offering beautiful views of the surrounding nature. Rauhaniemi sauna has been in operation since the 1900s and has been a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and unwind in the soothing heat. The sauna offers separate sections for men and women, and guests are encouraged to bring their own towels and refreshments. In addition to the sauna, Rauhaniemi also offers a cafe and a swimming beach, making it a perfect spot for a day out with family and friends.

If Kuusisto had to show someone around in Tampere, she would start the day with unwinding at Rajaportin sauna and spending the evening enjoying a jazz concert at G Livelab.

The Lenin Museum presents the difficult and shared history of Finland and Russia.

Special update for the World Championships: The Lions and The Red Machine!

Photo: V.M.Parkkinen, Jääkiekkomuseo Pispala

Näsinneula

LASER ADVENTURE

istic and super popular indoor laser tag experience that suits enturous per son regardless of e ʼs age or shape.

Book adventure!

Discover the Best of Finnish Design and Shopping in Tampere:

A Guide to the City's best Souvenirs and Artisanal Goods

Finnish design is known for its clean lines, minimalism, and functional yet beautiful design. Tampere is no exception, with a wealth of shops and boutiques offering a diverse range of Finnish-made goods, from traditional textiles and ceramics to contemporary clothing and home decor. Whether you're looking for a oneof-a-kind souvenir or a statement piece for your wardrobe, Tampere has something to offer every shopper. In this guide, we'll take you through the best places to shop for Finnish design in Tampere, as well as some of the city's gems for artisanal goods and unique finds.

TEXT MARIA VAKKANEN PHOTOS VISIT TAMPERE, LAURA VANZO

Tampere

Finnish design has a reputation around the world for its simplicity, functionality, and minimalism. The aesthetic has been shaped by the country's natural surroundings, as well as its cultural heritage, resulting in a style that is both timeless and contemporary. DesignOnTampere’s executive director Taru Heinänen describes Finnish design as timeless indeed: – Finnish design is defined by the goal of making products that are of high quality and stand the test of time both practically and visually. Finnish products often use high quality materials, and are created with careful craftsmanship. Lately we’re also seeing more personal and experimental forms of art and design, Heinänen says.

Locally crafted design

In Tampere, visitors can experience Finnish design up close and explore some of the city's best places to shop. For local design, head to DesignOnTampere Shop on the fourth floor of department store Sokos. This shopin-shop features products such as jewelry, ceramics and clothing crafted by locals. On a street called Aleksis Kiven katu right off the main street Hämeenkatu, there are several brand stores that have their roots in Tampere. Look for Pispala Clothing , Palmroth , Riiminka and Pura Finland Uhana , located on Verkatehtaankatu, is also worth a visit.

Taito Shop , located across the street from Koskikeskus shopping center, has a good selection of both Tampere and Finland themed products.

– Taito Shop in particular features a selection of souvenirs that are popular among tourists. They report magnets, t-shirts, canvas bags, Tampere underwear, kitchen towels, socks, coasters and trays to be their best selling items. In general, Taito Shop features a range of products made from wood, which is also very appealing to especially foreign tourists, Heinänen describes.

One of a kind souvenirs

For unique vintage finds, check out Oldie, Helga-neiti, Relove on the third floor of Stockmann or Vintage

Garden . The Kehräsaari area, located by the Tammerkoski rapids, on the other hand is home to several small shops, including Käsityökortteli, which sells items handcrafted in Finland. The Kehräsaari area is a sight to see in itself, as it is a beautifully repurposed old industrial area characterized by red brick buildings. The Finlayson area is another great place to check out, if you’re looking for a historic atmosphere.

So, where to start? Heinänen would suggest that you head to DesignOnTampere Shop on the fourth floor of Sokos. Her recommendation for a souvenir from Finland would be a Humbugi bag. Humbugi bags are made from industrial surplus leather, and their design is true to their Finnish heritage - minimalist and timelessly classic.

– There’s also a great selection of smaller items such as jewelry, if you’d like to opt for a smaller souvenir, Heinänen mentions.

Check out DesignOnTampere’s DOT-map on their website for a map view of the best places to check out in Tampere. Printed copies of the map are also available at the railway station and select hotels.

Authentic bites

When it comes to shopping in Tampere, visitors should also check out the city's markets. The Tammelantori market square, located in the heart of Tampere, features a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, crafts, and other local goods. The Tampere Market Hall, Kauppahalli, is a great place to sample local foods, including traditional Finnish dishes like reindeer meat and smoked salmon. Tallipiha, located a few minutes by foot from Kauppahalli, is like a small village of quaint boutiques and cozy places to grab a coffee or some food. It’s also the home of a chocolate shop loved by locals – Tallipihan Suklaapuoti.

Overall, Tampere is a great destination for design lovers and anyone looking to bring home a piece of Finnish design. From timeless design items to contemporary fashion, the city offers a wealth of shopping opportunities that showcase the best of Finnish design.

Tampere is a great destination for design lovers and anyone looking to bring home a piece of Finnish design.

Taito Shop

Tallipiha

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