TOKO

The story

TOKO Tartu – Michelin Recommended Modern Cuisine on the Emajõgi River

The Setting

TOKO sits on the banks of the Emajõgi River in Tartu, a relaxed spot that feels both central and quietly removed from the bustle. The restaurant describes itself as a “mõnus restoran” – a place where genuine flavours, fresh drinks and a cheerful team come together to create an enjoyable experience for you and your friends. It is open year-round, with outdoor seating in warmer months and air-conditioned comfort inside.

The Food

The kitchen, led by head chef Klaus Lemmatsi, focuses on modern cuisine that builds on classic Estonian ingredients and techniques. The à la carte menu changes with the seasons, but signature dishes include a beef tartare with quail egg and flying fish roe, and Faroe Islands salmon with spinach, hollandaise and beurre blanc. Venison fillet with potato-ramsons purée, lingonberries and pepper sauce is another standout. Desserts like passion fruit cheesecake and raspberry soufflé with chocolate ganache round out the meal.

Chef’s Tasting Menu

For a deeper look into Lemmatsi’s cooking, the chef’s degustation menu offers a curated sequence of four courses. It begins with an amuse-bouche of beetroot tartare with hummus and cedar, followed by Faroe salmon ceviche with furikake and tiger’s milk. Duck breast with leek and hollandaise leads into a passion fruit cheesecake. The menu is priced at €39 per guest and is served to the whole table at once – a convivial way to experience the kitchen’s range.

Michelin Recognition

TOKO’s commitment to honest, well-executed modern cuisine has earned it a place in the Michelin Guide’s Recommended list for 2026. The award reflects the restaurant’s ability to deliver a consistently satisfying meal in a setting that feels both unpretentious and carefully considered. It is one of several restaurants in the group that includes NOA, Tuljak and FUME, but TOKO has its own distinct identity rooted in Tartu’s riverside character.

Practical Notes

The restaurant uses only free-range eggs and offers a separate children’s menu. Gift cards are available for all nine restaurants in the group. TOKO is open Monday to Thursday 12:00–23:00, Friday and Saturday 12:00–00:00, and Sunday 12:00–22:00. Reservations are recommended, especially for the chef’s tasting menu.