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Vegan Restaurants in Tallinn, Estonia

2/19/2019

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Tallinn, Estonia is one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Europe. Ancient and traditional, Tallinn also has room for progressive types of eating, which includes various vegan and plant-based restaurants in and around Old Town. If searching for somewhere healthy to eat, I recommend diving deep into a bowl of mushroom soup or possibly beet raviolis at one of these vegan establishments. 

Bliss Buffet
Bliss offers a daily vegetarian and vegan-friendly buffet that has over 100 dishes. Over 50 are gluten-free and about 50 lactose-free dishes. Here, you can find everything imaginable that the plant-craving stomach juices desire, with international favorites such as hearty chana masala, pumpkin soup and guacamole.  
 
Each person receives a bliss card and you can make unlimited trips to the buffet since they weigh the plate by the 100 grams. After meandering through the aisles, my soul yearned to dip my finger in every ounce of homemade dessert and ice cream. From salad to dessert to hot drinks and everything in between, you won't leave hungry. I walked here from Old Town, and it takes time and not much of a scenic route but achievable. 
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Vegan Restoran V
Known as the first vegan restuarnta in Tallinn, this crown jewel is a popular place amongst locals and plant-base tourists. Located in Old Town on Rataskaevu Street, the restaurant seats 30 and is often full. Reservations are recommended. A regular menu and special of the day is available. I tried the raw beet ravioli stuffed with cashew cheese and pumpkin soup. Both healthy and hearty for a cold winter's day in Tallinn. If you're not looking for a meal, they also serve various coffees, teas and desserts. 

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Vegan Inspiratsioon
Casual and cozy, VI offers a variety of wraps, soups, burgers, smoothies and salads. Water in Europe is not cheap and rarely free, but here guests are accompanied with fruit-infused water to wash down every meal. Above we have mushroom cashew soup, avocado quinoa salad and an Indian-inspired bean and rice mixture. It's the perfect place to stay warm on a cold winter's day whether for a cup of tea or just a place to stay warm on a chilly afternoon. 

Puree
Puree is a standard health food bar, featuring juices, snacks, smoothies and sandwiches. Light lunch options are available. If looking for something quick and easy in Europe that doesn't take time, Puree's got your back. 

Veg Machine
For a quick bite of vegan comfort food in a cozy little atmosphere, be sure to visit Veg Machine. Known for its plant-based junk food, like burgers and fries, it's the perfect establishment for veggie fast food or a quick bite nearby the train station at an affordable price. Prices for a burger range between four to six Euros. The food stall is inside Balti Jaama Turg and offers a few chairs at the counter. 

Green Bakery
Located near the main bus depot, Green Bakery is a dairy-free cafe and bakery located in the Sikupilli neighborhood. Green Bakery also offers a buffet featuring a variety of salads, soups, main courses and desserts. If you don't fancy buffets, muffins, coffee and pastries are available and an ideal place to rummage through one of the many books for sale. Baked goods and pantry items are also sold here. 

Tallinn features plenty of other vegan options, and I suggest checking out the Happy Cow website to confirm restaurant hours of operation. We live in a changing world, and be sure to check that these small business establishments are still operating and in the same location. These are four places I recommend, though you can't go wrong with vegan food anywhere in the world. 


Looking for other Tallinn tips? Here are some of our other Tallinn Blogs. 
Vegan in Tallinn, Estonia: Bliss Buffet & Restaurant
​
10 Historical Sites You Can't Miss in Tallinn, Estonia
​
The Best Historic Cafes You Can't Miss in Tallinn, Estonia

This Lemon Tree article is now featured on GPSmyCity.  To download this article for offline reading or travel directions to the attractions highlighted in this article, go to Vegan Restaurants in Tallinn, Estonia.
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10 Historical Sites You Can't Miss in Tallinn, Estonia

1/9/2019

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Tallinn, Estonia is a charming medieval town that dates back to 1248. Historic indeed, walking through old town is like a time warp, a trip down medieval memory lane leaving travelers wondering what life was like 500 years ago. It is one of the best-preserved old towns in Europe, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Steeped with history, these are some of the most important landmarks and sites that you do not want to miss while in Tallinn. 
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Town Wall
Border walls were an important piece of protective architecture in any medieval city. Tallinn’s wall is well preserved and is 1.15 miles (1.85km) in length and contains 20 watch towers and multiple entry gates. Guests can walk in a section of the wall, approximately 656 feet. Here you’ll gain perspective of what it was like to “watch out” for survival back in the day. But, once upon a time in the 16thCentury, the wall was 2.4 km in length with 46 watch towers. ​
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The historic Town Hall Square has served as a marketplace since the 11thCentury. Today locals and travelers enjoy plenty of street side cafés overlooking the square and some of the oldest architecture in town. The historic pharmacy is worth a visit!

Raeapteek - Town Hall Pharmacy
Believe it or not, this is one of the longest standing pharmacies still operating today in Europe. Founded in the 15thCentury, a pharmacy has continuously operated out of this exact building. An onsite museum displays historic medical tools and relics from the medieval and Renaissance eras. It is recommended to purchase claret, a German-spiced wine as a souvenir. There are not many businesses in the world that have been in operation since 1422. Holistic health is part of the Baltic culture so get ready to explore a variety of teas, tinctures and tasty treat workshops
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Olevsite Church
Towering 407 feet in the heart of Old Town square, Oleviste Church is the tallest medieval structure in town. The beautiful interior seems modest compared to the decadent Catholic churches. Built in the 12thCentury, this church best represents its Scandinavian population. Inside, guests find sweeping views of the city and the Gulf of Finland in the tower’s observation deck. 

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Katariina Käik - St Catherine's Passage
This is one of the most historic and beautiful passageways in town that connects Vene and Müürivahe Streets. The southern end features warehouses, merchants and artisans selling their crafts where the Northern end contains the remains of St. Catherine’s Dominican Monastery as well as some ancient tombstones. It is a walk back into medieval time.  

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Great Guild Hall
Built between 1407-1410, the Great Guild Hall was once a guild for merchants and artisans until 1920. Today, it is home to the Estonian History Museum. This Gothic building is in the heart of Old Town and considered one of the most marvelous pieces of medieval architecture in the city.   

Kalma Spa
Estonia and the Baltic region is known for its spa culture. They believe in herbal and esoteric healing, which much of their knowledge originates from Russian roots. Built in 1928, Kalma is one of the oldest spas in Estonia. Modest indoors, this traditional bathing house separates men and women. Inside, you’ll notice nude bathers beating each other with birch branches known as vihta or vasta. The men’s corridors feature plenty of Russian bears, drinking vodka, beating backs with branches and well, eating fish heads. The spa is a short distance to Old Town. 

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Toompea Hill
Toompea Hill hand long been the “mecca” for Tallinn’s power. Here travelers discover a myriad of churches, a medieval castle fortification and Estonia’s Parliament. Meander onward and upward on a cobblestone path to discover several viewpoints that feature some of the best views of the city. Be sure to visit St. Olav’s, a 407-foot-tall church! One interesting fact is that this church has been struck by lightning 10 times, three of which caught it on fire in 1625, 1820 and 1931. 

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Toompea Castle
Toompea Castle is home to Estonian’s parliament. In 1227-1229, the German Knights of the Sword first built a stone fortress here, and since then every ruler has used this castle as their base. Estonia’s history is unique as it has roots from Russia, Scandinavia and Finland. The castle is the military and administrative center for regional rulers from Estonia and historically once used by the Danes, Swedes and Russians. 


This Lemon Tree article is now featured on GPSmyCity.  To download this article for offline reading or travel directions to the attractions highlighted in this article, go to 10 Historical Sites You Can't Miss in Tallinn, Estonia.

Where is your favorite historical site in Tallinn? Check out our other Lemon Tree Travel blogs about Tallinn! 
The Best Historic Cafes You Can't Miss in Tallinn, Estonia
​
Tallinn, Estonia: A Walk Down Medieval Memory Lane
​
Vegan in Tallinn, Estonia: Bliss Buffet & Restaurant
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The Best Historic Cafes You Can't Miss in Tallinn, Estonia

8/21/2017

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​Tallinn, Estonia contains one of the most majestic Old Town in Europe. From the medieval era to the Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic, Tallinn experienced its fair share of brutal history. Today, visitors enjoy lattes and chocolate cake in some of the most historic buildings and cafes in and around the old city. When in Tallinn, stay warm at some of the most buzz-worthy cafes you can't miss while in Tallinn.
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Choco - Chocolaterie de Pierre
Hidden in an ancient courtyard on Vene Street is the Choco café. The actual cafe opened in 2003 with roots dating back to 1937. The interior transports you back into ancient Europe. The cozy café features a plethora of golden-rimmed paintings, Victorian candles, red velvet chairs and an old sign in book to explore where travelers come from. Enjoy a latte, or a Chai tea, accompanied with a slice of European-style cake or small square of chocolate. During the warmer months, enjoy the makeshift “couch” along the exterior’s stairs.
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Kohvik Dannebrog Café – Old Town Tower & Walkway Café
Built between 1402 and 1404, this is the most unique café located in Tallinn. Climb 115 narrow stairs; using a walled-in chain to aide your adventures up the steep stairs toward the tower. Be careful on the way down, especially with dress shoes. A bit expensive, visitors pay for the view and the experience (around 5 euros for a coffee). But, there are not many places in the world where you can hangout in a medieval tower for 5 euros! 
Maiasmokk Cafe
Maiasmokk is Estonia's oldest cafe. Established in 1864, a bakery and shop occupied this space since 1806. This era was a time when locals dreamed many little dreams of inventions to the creation of photography. In 1941, the Soviet occupation incorporated the business with other confectioneries. Legend has it that Tallinn is the birthplace of marzipan and used to prevent lovesickness during the medieval era. Today, marzipan is still handmade in the shop where guests shop and watch storekeepers paint marzipan. 
Energia Kohvik 
If you're feeling nostalgic for the Soviet Union, explore Energia Cafe. Some claim the only thing that has changed is that the waitresses are now old ladies. There are few authentic Soviet cafes left in Tallinn, and this is one of the closest ones to Old Town. Established in 1964, this is one of the cheapest places to eat and drink. Besides coffee and pastries, explore a variety of Eastern European soups and simple sandwiches. The decor is modest and as plain as and uninspiring as you can get during the Soviet era
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Kehrwieder Saiakang Chocolaterie
Kehrwieder has several locations within Tallinn and roasts it's coffee locally in town. The established cafe is not that old, but resides in some of the most historic spaces and buildings in town. Besides coffee and chocolate, Kehrwieder hand makes their own ice cream without preservatives or artificial coloring. 
Reval Cafe
This Old Town Vene location is a beautiful spot to visit to soak up the historic atmosphere. Open earlier than most cafes in the neighborhood, it's an affordable breakfast destination. With two stories, stay warm as the heat rises, which is essential during the cold winter months.  Reval is now one brand that united several cafes throughout the city. With 11 cafes located throughout the city, I recommend spending more time at the other cafes, but having breakfast or an early AM coffee here. 

What's your favorite cafe in Tallinn? Let us know so we can check it out on our next trip! 


This Lemon Tree article is now featured on GPSmyCity.  To download this article for offline reading or travel directions to the attractions highlighted in this article, go to The Best Historic Cafes in Tallinn, Estonia. 

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Vegan in Tallinn, Estonia: Bliss Buffet & Restaurant

4/25/2016

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What’s red, orange and dotted with a side of purple greens? My experience at Bliss, a blissful time of where healthy food meets modern culture. 
 
Tallinn’s Old Town is a true medieval spectacle, like I wrote in a previous post - Tallinn, Estonia: A Walk Down Medieval Memory Lane.  The ancient-looking streets looked exactly the same as it did back in the 15th Century; the only difference is the modern interiors at many of the street-side cafes. Still old, I recommend Tallinn for anyone who wants to experience an authentic Eastern European trip.
 
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I found several vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Tallinn. One of the ways that I exercise while traveling is to do everything by foot. And well, I definitely got my walk in before and after eating at Bliss.
 
Located outside of the main Old Town, I walked a mile down a semi desolate-looking road to what seems like a street that never ends. Along the way, I found a few Estonian cats waving their tales in the windows of the locals.
 
I entered Bliss and my eyes caught onto the chic and vibrant décor that splashed a bit of Bohemian living amidst open-air windowed walls. Speaking English is not common outside of the Old Town, but luckily a girl who knew enough English explained to me how it works at Bliss.
 
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Bliss offers a daily vegetarian and vegan-friendly buffet that has over 100 dishes. Over 50 are gluten-free and about 50 lactose-free dishes. Here, you can find everything imaginable that the plant-craving stomach juices desire, with international favorites such as hearty chana masala, pumpkin soup and guacamole.  
 
Each person receives a bliss card and you can make unlimited trips to the buffet since they weigh the plate by the 100 grams. After meandering through the aisles, my soul yearned to dip my finger in every ounce of homemade dessert and ice cream.
 
I sniffed the rising steam wafting a top of the main courses and let my nose and stomach guide me to the best. As you can see, I tried several sides with my favorite being the squash soup. I love soup. It’s like a deep love affair and somehow its one of the best things that I cook.
 
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Encapsulated by the carrot salad, I couldn’t help but snap a few photos. Meanwhile, that is a mistake. Bliss does not allow photographs of their space. I understood their point of view, but found it to be a bummer since I wanted to write about it. But, I wouldn’t let that stop you. Sadly, because of this I couldn’t show you the miraculous cakes or the decadent lattes overflowing with froth.
 
I ended my meal with sweet potato fries. Yes, it tastes just like home. Normally, I refrain from anything fried, but after walking 16-miles in 3 days, my body craved fat like no other.
 
When in Tallinn, take a walk or a ride, to Bliss where blissology meets foodology for no other study better than the one inside your mouth.


This Lemon Tree article is now featured on GPSmyCity.  To download this article for offline reading or travel directions to the attractions highlighted in this article, go to Vegan in Tallinn, Estonia: Bliss Buffet & Restaurant
 
Mustamäe tee 17, Tallinn 10616
http://www.blissest.com/en/

Do you easy vegan cooking? Check out my vegan food blog at: Mind Body Soul Food www.mindbodysoul-food.com/recipes 
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Tallinn, Estonia: A Walk Down Medieval Memory Lane

2/15/2016

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One of the lesser visited European countries and Baltic States, Estonia, was by far one the most unique places I’ve ever visited. I felt as if I walked back into time where the new town displayed signs of Soviet reign and the walled-up Old Town flourished medieval culture and lifestyle. To say the least, Estonia is a conglomerate of historic treats.
 
With no plans, the best way to explore Tallin is to get lost. Enter through the medieval gates and open your heart to the energy of Tallinn.
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One of the most unique aspects to many Eastern European old towns is the “nook and cranny” alleyways hidden away from the main streets. Tallinn’s Old Town alleyways are a mystical exploration to find historic cafes and modern day art shops. Similar to Prague, each alleyway and shop decorates to its own charm. 

Especially on a cloudy winter day, there is no better day to enjoy Tallinn cafes than with a bite of chocolate washed down by a frothy café latte. Sitting in a red velvet chair accompanied by a dresser topped with a candle and a guestbook, I could not help but contemplate how many souls (and visitors) have sat in this very spot. The deep-rooted history is wild. 

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Meandering down the cobblestone alleys, I could not help but envision life as a peasant walking to a fro with the biggest worry of, "How will I afford my next loaf of bread?" Today, I worry, "Where is a cafe with free wifi?" I sort of wish life wasn't like that. But among the many secret alleys, you will find dated remedies of art and symbols carved into old stone, which is now displayed on one of the main "secret roads."
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Tallin is also a shopper's paradise. There is no lack of modern, traditional and authentic gear. Since the Baltic is temperate, but has the damp-cold of the Pacific Northwest, visitors can find a myriad of handmade sweaters, gloves, socks, scarves and hats all flaunting the Baltic-look. 
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During winter, one of the downfalls about traveling to a place is that you do not experience the true bustling squares filled with street side cafe tables and chairs. Although big and still semi-bustling for winter, the church bells struck another of delightful discovery. Medieval restaurants hired peasant-dressed fellows to bargain a token (for a free drink) in exchange for a table underground surrounded by stone walls and dried herbs. 

The Baltic is known for its sauna and spa culture, and healing tea concoctions.. Exploring Old Town we ran across Tallinn's oldest public bath house, Kalma. I stripped off my clothes and entered the tiny and basic bath house only to see three older women with unshaven legs beat the shit out of each other with bushels of leaves and juniper. the saunas are hot and found my mind crashing after several minutes with the need to plunge into the ice-cold bath. Taking my breath away, I walked an old bushel of wet sticks and leaves. I looked at the old women and said, "Can I use this?" In broken English they replied, "Ah no good. No good. Fresh! Fresh!"

After several saunas and ice bathes, I walked into the locker room feeling refreshed. One women also came into the locker room and opened her hot tea canister where she steeped fruit tea. 

She said, "You want?" I obliged and there she handed me a small cup and said, "Tea good. It makes you..." as she lifted her arms and flexed her muscles. I replied, "Oh strong. Yes! Yes! Teas makes you strong." Naked, we smiled and sipped tea and I proceeded with the adventures in Tallinn. 
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Feeling refreshed we ended up at a Soviet cafe where the only thing that has changed were the owner's age. Still kickin' it with 1970's Soviet-inspired decor, Josh ate a bowl of soup and bread that cost around 3 Euros. I opted in for one of three of my vegetarian and vegan expeditions, which I might add Tallinn has an active plant-based eating scene. 

Walking up Toompea, the limestone hill, we explored the castle, neighborhood and the cafe built inside the stone wall. How unique, how amazing. Walking up those stairs was not only a mighty-fine glute workout, but I couldn't help but wonder how 5'2" nobles made it up these deep stairs. The doorways were as tall as chin and I huffed and puffed my way to another tea. 

Tallinn's old town, completely left untouched of mainstream bullshit and tourism invited me into a world filled with unique history. From soldiers shooting bow and arrows out of castles to ancient knowledge on the healing powers of tea - Tallinn is by far a spectacle that is true to its roots. Now we must head off to the ferry for our day trip to Helsinki. 

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Twitter: @Brainbodykovar

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    Elizabeth Rae Kovar is a Fitness Trainer, Author of Finding Om, Presenter, Yogi, Vegan & lover of the World. View her portfolio at www.elizabethkovar.comor health-based blog at mindbodysoul-food.com

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