Arctic Tasting

A delightful food event for food enthusiasts of all kinds! In Arctic Tasting, local restaurants and cafés compete against each other to create the most delicious tasting dish. The winner is voted by the customers.


Arctic Tasting Sep 23 – 26, 2026

The Arctic Tasting, part of the European Capital of Culture Oulu2026 programme, will take place from 23 to 26 September. The event aims to highlight the food culture and local ingredients of the Oulu2026 region, while also lowering the threshold for customers to try new restaurants.

For the event, participating restaurants and cafés will create a special tasting dish. The winner will be selected based on customer ratings.

Both savoury and sweet dishes, as well as drinks, are welcome in the competition. The tasting dishes will be priced at €5 and €7. Participating restaurants and their dishes will be announced on this website on 1 September.

For restaurants and cafés

Restaurants and cafés are now invited to take part in the Arctic Tasting. You can register via the following form.

Register here

The tastiest events from Oulu2026

Arctic Tasting has been organised since 2022. The event celebrates the richness and expertise of northern food culture, offering savoury and sweet treats to enjoy at lunchtime or in the evening. Each dish brings out the values of the Arctic Food Lab: local ingredients, unique flavours and nuances of the northern culinary tradition. This event invites you to taste local producers, restaurants and delicacies – flavours born in the Arctic and prepared with great passion.

It’s awesome that great restaurants in Oulu are being highlighted! (visitor feedback)