Located in the heart of Helsinki, more precisely at the iconic Aleksanterinkatu 13, which was once Finland's first fully commercial structure, Bouchon Carême introduces a fresh, sophisticated take on French bouchons, a type of traditional Lyonnaise restaurant known for its cozy, casual atmosphere and hearty, rustic dishes, in a landmark setting steeped in history. An emblem of urban elegance for over a century, the building underwent a significant three-year renovation, reopening its doors in the fall of 2024 as a contemporary commercial venue, with Bouchon Carême standing out as one of its most striking attractions. Designed by celebrated Finnish interior studio Fyra, the restaurant is the latest project by chefs Hans Välimäki, Maria von Graevenitz-Välimäki, Arto Rastas, and Miika Lönn, merging the charm of Lyonnaise dining with Helsinki’s historic ambiance.

The history of the location sets a captivating backdrop. Completed in 1900, Aleksanterinkatu 13 was Finland’s first fully commercial building. Designed in the style of grand German and Viennese department stores, it featured fully adaptable floor plans, high ceilings, intricate staircases, and expansive windows on all floors, a first in the city. The building received a jubilant reception at the time, as it was said to have changed the look of Helsinki into a modern European metropolis