Sivukirjasto Helsinki
A library of beer
Located next to Kallio library, it is clear where the bar Sivukirjasto gets its name - kirjasto meaning library in Finnish. I have heard that some new customers have actually confused the two and gone to the real library looking for beer.
Bars and cafes are often described as the living rooms of locals and I don't think it's an exaggeration at all to use this description for Sivukirjasto. Even though Sivukirjasto is usually quite busy and crowded, especially during weekends, the atmosphere is mostly relaxed.
Sivukirjasto has a nice selection of beers, often including local specialties like sahti, a traditional Finnish beer-like drink, and nice offers of wine. They have also a wide range of board games, which makes Sivukirjasto a really nice place to spend time with friends. They also serve some bar snacks, a treat which is unfortunately quite rare in Finnish bars but makes a long evening a lot nicer.
Sivukirjasto has also a nice, sunny terrace during summer, a perfect place to spend summer evenings watching the lively parks around.
Find your way with 65 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Helsinki
Pasila
Conduct your own urban art walk
"Pasila" is going to be one of Helsinki's most alternative districts in the coming years! Home to plenty of street art, it's no just dull grey buildings...
by
Joonas
Kervinen
Korjaamo
The diverse culture factory in Töölö
"Korjaamo" in Helsinki's Töölö is the area's most important highlight; it offers neraly all kinds of cultural events & I usually go for a live music show.
by
Joonas
Kervinen
Linnanpiha Terrace
Peaceful terrace with an edge
"Linnanpiha Terrace" Helsinki is in the yard of a former Katajanokka prison. Now it's a restaurant where I like to enjoy a burger and play 'mölkky' or...
by
Markus
Veikkolainen
Käpylä
Laid-back bohemian neighbourhood
"Käpylä" and the kioskk cafe Käpylän Lippakioski in Helsinki make my day! This garden neighborhood is perfect to walk around in and I love the events...
by
Joonas
Kervinen
Kotiharjun Sauna
Authentic & social public sauna
"Kotiharjun Sauna" is a legendary yet perfectly ordinary sauna in Helsinki. Bring your beers with you, like a local, and enjoy socializing like a Finn!
by
Joonas
Kervinen
Oljenkorsi
Cozy craft beer fountain
"Oljenkorsi" in Helsinki is a craft beer heaven. Even after moving away from the neighborhood, I keep returning for the authentic local Toukola spirit...
by
Joonas
Kervinen
Vanha Kauppahalli
The old market hall
"Vanha Kauppahalli" Helsinki is definitely one of my favorite market halls! My favorite spot inside is Restaurant Story as it is like the heart of Vanha...
by
Markus
Veikkolainen
Satkar
In the vanguard of Nepalese cuisine
"Satkar" is one of the most conveniently, centrally located Nepalese restaurants in Helsinki. They're a phenomenon you just have to try for yourself!
by
Joonas
Kervinen
Andante
Flowers, coffee and raw treats
"Andante" combines two trends in Helsinki: raw cakes and a cafe-shop mix. It's also a cool flower shop with more than 20 years of history. Quality coffee too
by
Markus
Veikkolainen
Cafe Papu
Neighborhood cafe with Vietnamese touch
"Cafe Papu" is one of my favorite places in Helsinki. The reason? It's one of the few places that serve Vietnamese Bánh mì sandwiches.
by
Markus
Veikkolainen
Pompier Albertinkatu
Flash from the past
"Pompier Albertinkatu" is a very popular Helsinki lunch spot and one of my favorites. It's located in a volunteer fire deparment, which goes way back...
by
Markus
Veikkolainen
Stockmann Herkku
The go-to grocery store
"Stockmann Herkku" in the Helsinki centre is my go-to grocery store to find a great selection of fresh, quality and local products and amazing service!
by
Markus
Veikkolainen
Heading to Helsinki?
65 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Helsinki?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 65 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Bars
Our team loves Helsinki
Get to know our other Spotters from Helsinki
As featured on:
