Restaurant alcohol prices in Finland drive drinkers to parks and homes

Alcohol sales in Finnish restaurants have slumped as customers increasingly buy drinks from shops to consume at home or in parks, according to the industry association MaRa.

Last year, more than 300 restaurants filed for bankruptcy, with the decline in alcohol sales cited as the single biggest factor. A decade ago, alcohol accounted for just over half of restaurant revenue; now it makes up only a third. Food sales, by contrast, rose to nearly 70% of turnover in 2025, up from under 50% at the turn of the millennium.

MaRa notes that Finland’s alcohol tax rates are the highest in the EU. A litre of 100% alcohol from beer is taxed at €36.71, compared to €1.99 in Spain.

Customers interviewed in Helsinki’s Tokoinranta park said restaurant prices were “painful” or “salty.” Many now pre-drink at home before going out, or skip licensed venues entirely. Some still dine in restaurants weekly but avoid alcohol there, citing cost.