Estonian island food — what to try on Saaremaa, Muhu, and Ruhnu

A taste of the sea

Saaremaa, Muhu, and Ruhnu were isolated until after the Soviet occupation.

Since then, they have revitalized and redeveloped their tourism industry based on sustainable standards. As you plan your trip, you'll find various certified ecotourism sites, which you can recognize by the Green Key quality seal.

Enjoy Estonian island food and combine it with historical attractions, cultural immersion, and unique island landscapes, including wonderful beaches, well-kept nature trails, and opportunities for sustainable travel.

Muhu

The trip from the mainland to Saaremaa passes through Muhu — but passing by Muhu without stopping would be a grave mistake. Here, you'll find Alexander at Pädaste Manor, the only island restaurant recommended by the MICHELIN Guide.

In addition to relaxed fine dining, you'll find enough to spend at least a day exploring. Sample the hearty black bread, see how many colorfully painted doors you can spot, admire intricate traditional embroidery, or just sit back and relax by the sea.

As the MICHELIN Guide has said, Muhu is "a place where time has – and continues to – stand still, both for the serene atmosphere and the fact that it appears untouched and unbothered by the outside world."

Iconic island ingredients

Saaremaa's climate tends to be milder than on the mainland. The soil may be poor, but it is suitable for juniper, mushrooms, and berries. Islanders enjoy picking juniper berries and using them to marinate meat and season other dishes. Mushrooms feature heavily in Estonian cuisine; on the islands, they are often dried and served in soups or sauces.

Fresh fish is the island's star ingredient. Look for the catch of the day at local markets and check restaurant menus or their daily specials.

Regional, handcrafted products from small producers on supermarket shelves are clearly marked with the Saaremaa EHTNE.