Hõlm

The story

Hõlm – Modern Cuisine in Tartu, Estonia | Michelin Recommended

Modern Cuisine in the Heart of Tartu

Hõlm is a modern cuisine restaurant located in the historic Hotel Lydia, just behind Tartu’s Town Hall square. It has been recognised by the MICHELIN Guide (2025 Recommended) and the White Guide Nordic as one of the best restaurants in Northern Europe. The kitchen is led by head chef Sven Pärn, who brings over twenty years of experience, including stints in Australia, Norway, and several Michelin-starred kitchens. He emphasises local ingredients and traditional techniques like marinating and fermenting.

The atmosphere is elegant yet welcoming. The dining room is spacious with large windows offering views of the park, and tables are well-spaced for comfortable conversation. An outdoor terrace is available in warmer months. The restaurant also has a private room for events and a dedicated playroom for children, complete with a separate kids’ menu.

The Food

The à la carte menu changes seasonally. Starters range from pigeon with smoked bacon and foie gras (€18) to buckwheat blini with whitefish and sour cream (€16), and scallops with squid and zucchini (€17). Main courses include grilled Berber duck breast with olive pesto and currant sauce (€28), and venison with celery-maltose cream and lingonberry sauce (€33). For those who prefer a lighter option, there is a grilled halloumi from Uustla Farm with romaine lettuce and pistachio emulsion (€22).

A five-course tasting menu (€85, with wine pairing €73 or €50 for non-alcoholic) is available until 8:30 PM. The menu features dishes like gnocchi with mushrooms and Parmesan, and lemon sole with artichoke cream and tomato. The wine list is curated by sommelier Alar Pärn, who has a playful approach to pairing – he says he can find the right drink for you “in a couple of sentences and the direction of the wind.”

The Team

Beyond the kitchen, the front-of-house team, led by Riina Märtson, ensures a warm and professional service. The restaurant’s philosophy is that hospitality starts with people, and the staff at Hõlm are dedicated to making every guest feel welcome. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, the team’s attention to detail is evident.

Hõlm is a place where modern cuisine meets genuine hospitality, earning its place among the best in Estonia.