Alppimaja relocates to former bank premises in Ruokolahti amid demolition concerns

Finland is home to a variety of unique cafés and restaurants, one of which is Alppimaja, located in Ruokolahti, South Karelia. This establishment has been serving customers since 1977 and was housed in a former cooperative store. During the early 1980s, it saw its peak in visitor numbers, although it has continued to attract customers in the years since. In 2018, the restaurant hosted a meeting for a local culinary club, highlighting the traditional method of thickening a local dish with rye flour.

This autumn, locals faced concern when it was announced that the old cooperative building would be demolished. In response, Tomi Raijas, the restaurant’s owner, decided to relocate Alppimaja just 100 meters away into the former bank premises after discussions about the move. According to Raijas, there are limited buildings available in the vicinity, prompting the urgent need for a solution.

The new establishment has a significantly different ambiance, lacking the alpine charm of its predecessor. Instead, the remnants of the bank, including an operational ATM, are still present in the building. The sounds of cash withdrawals can be heard from within the restaurant, which Raijas finds pleasant.

The bank’s thick vault, with walls approximately 35 centimeters thick, required modifications for ventilation during the move. This robust security feature leads to curiosity about its current use. Raijas humorously notes that while it’s meant to store some of the restaurant’s assets, it primarily houses beer.

Despite the changes, locals have welcomed the continuation of Alppimaja’s legacy in its new location.