Kaivopuisto (Kaivari), is one of the oldest and best known parks in South Helsinki. The park is on the seafront and in the vicinity operates several cafes and restaurants. Another name for this post could be “Kaivopuisto terrace guide”, but as only 3 terraces have been chosen, more specific name was needed.
It takes only 25 minutes to walk to the first hot spot from Market Square. And if you arrive for one day visit to Helsinki with Tallink Cruise ship from Stockholm, only 20 minutes. But if you get tired before first pit stop, you can drop by at Cafe Ursula, which is the oldest seafront terrace in Kaivopuisto area.
Mattolaituri
The first hot spot is Mattolaituri. Mattolaituri (Carpet Pier) name comes from the pier which was, and sometimes still is, used for washing carpets. Otherwise nothing in common, as cafe building is most modern in Helsinki, as well as the terrace.
Mattolaituri is located across from island Uunisaari, in Eastern part of South Kaivopuisto.
Place is one of the few “Moet Ice Imperial hot spots” in Helsinki (link to find all hot spots Discover), which you can also see from the pictures. In the evenings also dancing and once a week movies.
There are several areas for relaxation; roof terrace, table area and deck chairs. Less queues in busiest times due to 2 serving desks.
Drinks: champagnes, especially Moet & Chandon and wines
Food: snacks or salad, not the main focus
Opening hours: 09.00AM – 02.00AM, open from MayDay to about end of September
Mattolaituri – Helsinki, Finland – Ravintola | Facebook
Cafe Carusel
Cafe Carusel is next hot spot locating across from islands Sirpalesaari, Liuskaluoto and Liuskasaari. It was opened already in mid 90’s and was at that time phenomenom.
Cafe/restaurant is open all-year-round as it has spacious interior. You can relax inside, if it rains or on sun beds or at table area. And if it happens to rain, choose Cafe Carusel. Also widest menu.
Drinks: beer, cider, wines, special coffees
Food: pizzas, salads, burgers, sandwiches, widest menu of the 3 hot spots
Opening hours: 09.00AM – 22.00PM every day, all year round
Cafe Carusel – Helsinki, Finland – Kahvila | Facebook
Birgitta
Birgitta Hernesaari, the newcomer, which was opened this summer, is third hot spot. This cafe is most rough-looking as exterior-walls seem to be burned.
Cafe is located almost in Hernesaari, which is the westernmost area in Kaivopuisto and near the new beach. You will see lot’s of cruise passengers from ship’s stopping for the day in Hernesaari port. Last time 1/3 of the customers were from the United States.
During busiest time the longest waiting time for order submission. Birgitta is also smallest from these 3 terraces.
Drinks: soft drinks, beer, video, wines
Food: speciality is burger grilled in charcoal grill, salads and sandwiches
Opening hours: 09.00AM – 22.00PM every day, not yet sure if cafe is open all year round
Birgitta Hernesaari – Kahvila | Facebook
So, if you visit Helsinki and like to relax on terraces, not just settle for hanging in downtown cafes and terraces. Walk or take a tram number 2 from Market Square to Kaivopuisto.
Reijosfood 
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