Gastronomic Tour in the Baltic States: Michelin Awards and Stars
Today, we will explore the restaurants in the Baltic States that have been awarded Michelin stars and other prestigious accolades. Additionally, we will introduce the national dishes of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. At the end of the article, you will also find out why a gastronomic tour of the Baltics is worth embarking on and what “delicious” programs the tour operator DMC VIA Baltic has to offer.
Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Latvia
Max Cekot Kitchen (Riga) – 1 Michelin Star
Located in the heart of historic Riga, Max Cekot Kitchen stands out for its unique combination of traditional Latvian ingredients and modern cooking techniques. Its creative menu, focusing on seasonal products, and emphasis on freshness and quality have earned the restaurant one Michelin star. Guests appreciate the cozy atmosphere, attention to detail, and the opportunity to not only savor exquisite dishes but also witness live culinary demonstrations.
John Chef’s Hall (Riga) – 1 Michelin Star
Another remarkable representative of Latvia’s culinary scene is John Chef’s Hall. Known for its open kitchen space, where guests can observe the process of creating gastronomic masterpieces, this restaurant offers a contemporary menu based on seasonal and local ingredients. Its “open hall kitchen” concept turns dining into a real spectacle, making every guest a witness to the creative process.
Michelin Green Star
Pavāru māja
In addition to traditional Michelin stars, special attention is given to Pavāru māja in Līgatne, which has been awarded a Michelin Green Star for its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly products. Here, guests can enjoy authentic Latvian dishes prepared with national traditions and modern ecological culinary trends in mind. The cozy atmosphere, attentive service, and use of local ingredients make this restaurant a must-visit for those who appreciate healthy and delicious food.
Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Estonia
180° by Matthias Diether (Tallinn) – 2 Michelin Stars
Located in the prestigious Noblessner district of Tallinn, 180° by Matthias Diether has already won the hearts of gourmets, earning two Michelin stars. Under the leadership of chef Matthias Diether, the restaurant offers modern Estonian cuisine, where each dish is the result of carefully selected local ingredients and innovative culinary techniques. The restaurant’s interior emphasizes minimalism and sophistication, while the cityscape view makes dining here particularly memorable.
NOA Chef’s Hall
NOA Chef’s Hall is one of the best restaurants in Estonia, situated in Tallinn. A Michelin-starred establishment, it offers a multi-course tasting menu featuring innovative dishes paired with expertly selected wines. The restaurant has repeatedly been recognized as the best in the Baltic States and is renowned for its exceptional service and panoramic sea view. Advance reservations are required.
Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Lithuania
Džiaugsmas – The Jewel of Lithuanian Cuisine
Each season brings a new interpretation of traditional recipes, using only the finest local ingredients. A creative menu, signature cocktails, and attentive service create an atmosphere of culinary celebration and aesthetics. Džiaugsmas has been repeatedly recognized as one of the most promising places on Lithuania’s gastronomic map.
Nineteen18
Located at Dominikonų Street 11 in Vilnius, Nineteen18 offers contemporary cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. The restaurant has been awarded one Michelin star, confirming the high quality of its dishes. It operates from Wednesday to Saturday, 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Pas mus
Pas mus (translated from Lithuanian as “At our place”) is located at Piles Street 28 in Vilnius. This establishment is known for its informal and creative atmosphere, offering guests a seasonal tasting menu curated by chef Vita Bartininkaitė. In 2024, the restaurant was awarded one Michelin star. It is open from Wednesday to Saturday, 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Demo
Demo, a restaurant in Vilnius, offers innovative cuisine and was awarded a Michelin star in 2024. Chef Tadas Eidu-kevičius received the “Young Chef” award for his creative approach to gastronomy. The restaurant operates as a café during the day and transforms into a fine dining venue in the evening. Table reservations are recommended.
The Baltic Culinary Scene and Awards
The Baltic culinary scene also includes establishments recognized with the Bib Gourmand award—a mark of quality for restaurants offering high-standard cuisine at affordable prices. Among such restaurants in Latvia are Snatch, Shōyu, and Milda, which attract both local gourmands and international tourists with their affordability and original dishes.
National Cuisine of the Baltic States
Each Baltic country has its own unique culinary heritage, reflecting the climate, history, and traditions of the region.
Latvian Cuisine
One of the most famous Latvian dishes is gray peas with bacon, where smoked pork fat and fresh peas create a rich taste. The menu always includes freshly prepared fish dishes (such as fresh sprats), aromatic rye bread, and various soups that reflect the region’s traditions.
Lithuanian Cuisine
Lithuanian cuisine is famous for cepelinai—large potato dumplings with a meat filling, as well as kugelis, a baked dish made from grated potatoes, bacon, and onions. Dessert lovers will appreciate the famous Lithuanian cake šakotis (“Tree Cake”) and traditional soups, including cold beet soup.
Estonian Cuisine
Estonian culinary traditions feature dishes such as Mulgikapsad—stewed cabbage with meat—as well as various pies with meat and vegetable fillings. Traditional Estonian rye bread, smoked fish, and seasonal dishes prepared according to ancient recipes are also must-tries.
Why Take a Gastronomic Tour of the Baltics
A gastronomic tour of the Baltic States offers a unique opportunity to:
- Immerse yourself in rich culinary culture: Experience traditional recipes passed down through generations and taste dishes prepared using unique local techniques.
- Appreciate culinary mastery: Visit Michelin-starred restaurants and Bib Gourmand-awarded establishments to savor exquisite cuisine crafted by the region’s top chefs.
- Learn about local products: The tour introduces you to markets, farms, and producers whose products form the foundation of Baltic cuisine.
- Participate in masterclasses: Engage in hands-on cooking sessions under the guidance of professionals and discover the secrets of Baltic cuisine.
- Enjoy cultural and historical landmarks: In addition to gastronomic discoveries, explore ancient cities, museums, and monuments that make the region unique.
Gastronomic Programs for Gourmets by DMC VIA Baltic
For those who want to discover the Baltics from a culinary perspective, the tour operator DMC VIA Baltic offers unique “tasty” programs:
- Local product tastings: Sample the freshest delicacies, from traditional rye bread to authentic meat and fish dishes made with eco-friendly ingredients.
- Immersion in national cuisine: Tours and visits to local markets provide insight into the history and traditions of Baltic cuisine, along with tastings of region-specific dishes.
- Masterclasses by top chefs: Program participants get a chance to personally learn the art of fine dining and discover culinary secrets passed down through generations.
- Michelin restaurant tastings: Visit elite Michelin-starred establishments to enjoy world-class service and cuisine.
These programs are designed to ensure that your journey is not just about traveling but fully immersing yourself in Baltic culinary culture, gaining new impressions, and learning how modern techniques can be combined with traditional recipes.
For more details on the Michelin restaurant guide, visit https://guide.michelin.com
B2B tour operator DMC VIA Baltic offers various programs for food enthusiasts, tastings of local products, national cuisine and master classes, as well as tastings in Michelin-class restaurants.