Viru Lokaal — Restaurant in Tallinn

As a solo female traveler, I often dine alone. I have to say that in 13 years, 6 continents and countless meals, tonight was one of the worst experiences I have had. The meal was decent for the price. The service was ... well, have you ever felt ghosted by a server?

I get that service at the booths is more profitable with groups and was content to sit at the worst, by the toilets, wobbly table. I was not okay with the avoidance of eye contact and service. I was definitely annoyed when I asked for the bill ... twice ... and after 10 minutes, I got up and went to the bar. This was after trying to get the server's attention yet again. She was not busy and within spitting distance (and I was close to it by that point). She seemed to make a real effort to avoid seeing me. Perhaps thinking I would not leave a tip? She got that right.

I should note I was at this same establishment in October, but with another traveler. And it was great. Which is why I returned. Never again.

Solo female...

We landed in Tallinn, excited to explore! First stop? Viru Local, a gem of a bar that looked like it was plucked from a fairy tale—cozy wooden interiors, candlelight, and the kindest staff ever. 🕯️🌲 #HyggeGoals

Of course, we had to go full glögg-mys mode. 🍷🔥 The glögg? Divine. The soup? Heavenly. Mats is convinced it might’ve been enchanted because it was that good. Meanwhile, I decided it was the perfect time to dabble in Estonian. 🗣️😂 Spoiler: It’s like trying to sing opera backwards—so harsh but fun! The bartender? Absolute MVP. He patiently endured my linguistic disaster with a smile. 🙏🇪🇪

Honestly, we could’ve stayed there forever, sipping glögg and living our best cosy lives. 🍂❤️ If Tallinn were a hug, this bar would be it. 10/10 would totally butcher Estonian again for another round of this magical glögg. #CosyDreams...

Lovely !!

Recommended to come here for lunch by our hotel staff and we were impressed.

Warm personable service and delicious food to boot. We had the Estonian sprats on rye bread, wild mushroom soup and creamy chicken pasta. The meals were beautifully plated, ingredients fresh and pasta was truly cooked al detente and the cream sauce was perfectly balanced.

Special mention to Maarja who served us with such warmth that it made our day. And we were even served with warm water with a slice of lemon without charge. As this was our first time in Talllinn, we were so happy we came here.

I also noticed that when the winds started to get a bit chilly, the staff came out to offer blankets eventhough it was just lunch time. Can't beat that for service:)

Highly...