Juttutupa

In general

In general


As one of Helsinki’s oldest restaurants, Juttutupa has possessed a laid back atmosphere since its original opening in 1908.

Although it boasts a lengthy history, Juttutupa’s atmosphere is one of a relaxed nature. It’s the perfect place to meet individuals from all walks of life. From budding musicians & artists to locals, from groups to individuals, Juttutupa offers each and every one the opportunity to enjoy its leisurely ambience.

Come and enjoy a drink or two after work in our captivating historical setting. You’re bound to want to stay longer!



Juttutupa

With an Ala Carte menu crammed full of delicious treats, Juttutupa is the perfect place to treat yourself, family or friends to an evening of fine food amidst a superb atmosphere.

In addition to our a la carte menu, Juttutupa provides its patrons with an exciting 3-course theatre menu. As time is of the essence, our convenient fixed menu will allow you to enjoy our delicious fares without missing out on your theatre performance.

Lunches are served daily from Monday to Friday 10.33-14.30. Our daily- changing lunch menus include a fresh salad bar, bread, soup, a delicious main course, plus tea and coffee. Main courses include a vegetarian, home style, fish and meat option. With such a wide selection it’s no wonder that Juttutupa is a favourite for all hungry lunch goers!



A Chronology of Juttutupa & Graniittilinna

1884
Juttutupa’s roots can be traced as far back as 1884, when HTY (Helsinki Workers Society) opened a private restaurant/bar for society members on Kaivokatu.

1898
In 1898, the society decided to relocate its premises from Kaivokatu to Yrjönkatu. During this time the restaurant continued to function as a private facility. It was here the name “Juttutupa” (direct translation - place for informal discussions) was conceived. The original restaurant on Kaivokatu was subsequently rented out to another company, who in turn promptly opened a spirits and beer establishment.

1906
Once again the society moved, but this time to it’s current location, Siltasaari, which is situated on the edge of Töölö Bay (Töölölahti). In 1908, architect Karl Lindahl completed the remarkable new structure, with its castle-like features, romantic balconies and towers, Lindahl succeeded in transforming an area of local granite rock into an impressive granite castle.

1908
On the 19th September 1908 at 4.00pm, Juttutupa was officially opened. Originally the restaurant consisted of two separate seating areas, men sat near the outer edge by the windows, whilst women sat further inwards. Fortunately these seating arrangements are no longer in use! It may be said that two of the most famous patrons of Juttutupa are undoubtedly Otto-Ville Kuusinen (Finnish socialist theorist) and the Bolshevik leader- Vladimir Lenin! The same table around which these men sat is still referred to today as the “revolution” table.

1908-1930
Present day Restaurant Graniittilinna has previously functioned as a sports hall for the Helsinki Workers Society as well as a sports club named Jyry.

1917
During the Finnish Civil War in 1917, the “Red Guards” (working class army) utilised the ground floor of Grannittilinna as living quarters, whilst the sports hall was used as a gun warehouse.


1919
During the civil war Juttutupa was bombed and was subsequently occupied by the “Whites”
(middle-class army). Following the war, reconstruction began on the damaged tower. In 1919, Juttutupa was re-opened, but due to the prohibition law the restaurant was unable to sell alcohol.


1930
Activities continued under the prohibition law until the so-called “March of the Peasants” when the authorities decided to close Juttutupa due to the unsettling situation existing in the country. In the same year the SDP (Social Democratic Party) established a sports club, Tarmo, which consequently moved to Granniitilinna restaurant in 1931.

1932-1934
In 1932 Prohibition law was abolished and the sale of strong beer was re-introduced. In 1934, against considerable opposition, Juttutupa received a full liquor and beer license. Unfortunately, prohibition supporters’ regained power in Finland and the sale of alcohol was suspended. During this time Juttutupa was transformed into a warehouse for a publishing company, Tammi, and later a storing facility for the Social Democratic Party.