G.W.Sundmans Restaurant - History

The restaurant is named after its original owner, merchant ship captain Gustaf Wilhelm Sundman (1777-1835). The house (built between 1817 and 1820) was the work of architect Carl Ludvig Engel, the famed creator of Helsinki's historic imperial centre. In age-old tradition, the ground floor was reserved for shops and merchants, with the owner of the house residing upstairs. The Sundmans house is built in the St. Petersburg tradition of Russian empire style.

Gustaf Wilhelm Sundman rose in time to become one of the most influential people in Helsinki and played a major part in developing the Helsinki harbour. After his death, the house was for a long time property of the family heirs. In 1861 it became the sole possession of G.W.Sundman's son, the wealthy commercial counsellor Carl Wilhelm Ignatius Sundman.

Later on, Victor Ek and his heirs took over ownership of the Sundmans house for a lengthy period of time, during which it was also used as the headquarters of the family company Oy Victor Ek Ab. The first restaurant was opened in the Sundmans house upon completion of the basic repairs conducted in 1988-89.

The atmosphere and style of a wealthy 19th century bourgeoise home is ever present in the five rooms of the G.W.Sundmans Restaurant, creating a unique setting for culinary pleasures.