Just found this thread: I have not been visiting too often Travel & Dining forums...

Anyway, in 2008 I had something like 50 dinners in downtown Helsinki area, some with customers but mostly with own money. My favourites are here:

• Kuurna - my favourite 'hole in the wall' restaurant in Helsinki and huge value for money. Three course dinner around 35 euro and wine list is also reasonably priced. Small (20+ seats) and a bit grungy look, but beautifully prepared simple mainly scandinavian food. Tends to loud and homely so don't expect quiet dinner. Same owners as with Atelje Finne (which is bit more upscale) but I like this more.
• Demo - Still my favourite in Helsinki although they have been getting more conservative now with the Michelin star. I recall times couple of years ago when they were still the 'hidden secret'. Modern scandinavian with international twist.
• Chez Dominique - Already mentioned here several times. I still think that CD lost it's 'soul' when they moved to a much larger room but still reliable.
• Mai Thai - For good Thai food, I go to Mai Thai. Nice place especially if you are just dining with own money. Comfort food.
• Olo - Chef Terävä has impressive resume in Finnish restaurant world and he delivers modern nordic cooking well. High quality with relaxed atmosphere.
• Juuri - recently reviewed by NY Times, traditional Finnish food with pride. Speciality is 'Sapas' = Finnish 'tapas'.
• Särkkä - best summer restaurant for crayfish party late in August (I had in total 5 crayfish dinners in NJK, Särkkä, Saari and Klippan this year with friends, relatives and customers - too many). Great atmosphere, great view, great old castle, great small ferry ride back to Kaivopuisto (as long it is a warm dark August night)
• Villetta and Benjam's bistro - best 'hole in the wall' Italian restaurants in Helsinki. Both close to my regular hotel Crowne Plaza in Töölö. For me, Villetta is for pizza and Benjam's for pasta.