Our Story

A Restaurant for the Benefit of People

In the early 1950s, a group of determined Helsinki women decided to turn their dream into reality: a café whose proceeds would be donated to charitable organizations. They raised the initial capital by collecting bottles and newspapers.

In the Olympic year of 1952, their goal was achieved, and Ursula was established on the shores of Kaivopuisto. At the time, it was no larger than a small summer cottage. Today, Ursula has become a Helsinki institution, cherished by generations of locals. The restaurant has expanded considerably over the years and continues to warmly welcome both city residents and visitors.

The stunning seaside setting, delicious food, and cheerful service leave a lasting impression, ensuring that most guests return time and time again.

A Story of Goodness

The origin of the name Ursula can be traced back to the Ursin swimming facility and the Ursa Observatory, both of which were located in the area. These places inspired the creation of a feminine name for the café on the shores of Kaivopuisto. The final name was chosen in honor of a British saint: Saint Ursula has for centuries been a symbol of selflessness and helping others, and is thus regarded as the patron saint of charitable organizations and women in particular.

People have been enjoying coffee by the tip of the Kaivopuisto peninsula for a very long time. In the 19th century, a café called Veduta (Italian for “view”) operated there. The Kaivopuisto Spa, designed by Carl Ludvig Engel, attracted not only Helsinki residents but also many foreign visitors, including members of the Russian aristocracy.

Both the café and the spa were destroyed in the spring of 1942 during the war. Then, in 1952, things began to happen: Terttu Sainio and Anu Karvinen established Café Ursula as a summer café and recreational spot in anticipation of the Helsinki Summer Olympics. The café was a success, and in 1986 it was transformed into a year-round café-restaurant.

Ursula Today

From the very beginning, Ursula has served real coffee, even though it was a rare luxury in post-war Helsinki. This same commitment to quality continues in Ursula’s restaurant offering: locally sourced food and high-quality ingredients are a matter of pride for the Ursula kitchen. Today, Ursula is a welcoming lunch restaurant and café for all Helsinki residents—a place where you can also proudly bring international guests to enjoy the cuisine, the sea views, and, on selected days, high-quality live music.

Tradeka-Yhtiöt Oy is the owner of Oy Ursula. Tradeka-Yhtiöt Oy is a limited company responsible for the ownership management of the businesses within the Tradeka cooperative group. In addition to Ursula, it wholly owns Tradeka-sijoitus Oy, Restel Oy, Med Group Oy, Lehtipiste Oy, and A-Katsastus Group Oy.

Ursula’s tradition of giving back continues. Tradeka-Yhtiöt Oy donates 10% of its annual profit to support the public good and non-profit activities.