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Originally known for its rock and heavy metal clubs, Helsinki has recently developed a suave bar-lounge scene. What began as a love of mojitos is flourishing into a number of carpeted, couch-lined venues combining loungy tunes with magnificent cocktails, some as a separate part of chic restaurants. While the city is generally quiet Sunday–Tuesday nights, a well-dressed, mostly suit-clad clientele begins boozing and schmoozing in earnest on "little Saturday" (aka Wednesday), and you can expect lines at the most popular places starting at 11 on weekends. The compact size of the city center makes it easy to barhop. Almost any place with a terrace or courtyard is sure to be busy in summer, and cover charges, when required, average €5–€10.
Expect a good selection of cocktails, wine, and champagne, served in a pleasant and "expressively gay" lounge environment. Recommended among Helsinki's queer community as a relaxed meeting place, it has a popular outdoor terrace on this leafy boulevard in summer.
Located behind the Swedish Theater, Teatteri takes full advantage of its sexy Esplanade location with a perennially cool (and expensive) nightclub and two bar-lounges.
