Hanki Restaurant
Hanki is a modern Korean restaurant in central Rovaniemi. It blends classic Korean flavours with local Lapland ingredients and keeps the room calm and cosy for families. The menu is compact and well executed, with vegetarian and vegan choices. Book at busy times, especially December and February. Early sittings work best with children. This guide explains where Hanki is, what families tend to order, how to handle spice levels and allergies, and how to fit Hanki into a simple winter day.
At a glance
Central location: Korkalonkatu 2, short walk from many hotels
Lunch and dinner service; closed on Sundays (check current hours)
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Card payments accepted; parking nearby
Compact dining room suited to early family dinners
Booking advised in peak weeks
Where it is and how to book
Hanki sits on Korkalonkatu 2, close to shops and hotels. Winter pavements can be snowy, so allow a few extra minutes if you have a buggy. Reserve for 17:00–18:00 to keep the room quiet for children. Mention a high chair or buggy space when you book so staff can plan seating.
The concept and room
Hanki cooks Korean dishes with a Lapland twist. Expect clean flavours, good produce and neat presentation. The dining room is small, warm and simply decorated. Coats and snowsuits can go on a rack or behind your chair. Keep hats and mittens in a bag so nothing goes missing. If children arrive chilly after outdoor play, start with hot tea or warm juice and order food once everyone settles.
Menu overview for families
The menu is not long, which helps with decision-making after a busy day in the snow. You will usually find a handful of starters, one or two stews, grilled chicken or pork, a fish option and rice or noodles. Sauces are flavourful rather than overpowering. Portions are fair and sharing works well.
Easy choices for younger eaters
Mild grilled chicken with rice and vegetables
Salmon or Arctic char dishes when available
Dumplings or a simple starter trio to share
Rice and mild sides if a child wants something small
Ask for mild seasoning and sauces on the side. Staff can guide you to the gentlest options.
For adventurous children and parents
Kimchi stew on a cooler spice level
Pork dishes with crisp edges and balanced sauce
Seasonal specials that use Lapland ingredients
If spice is a concern, request low heat and taste a small spoonful before mixing sauces into rice.
Allergies, diets and spice levels
Vegetarian and vegan choices are available. Many dishes can be adapted gluten-light, but always check preparation and soy sauce use. Tell staff about allergies when you book and again on arrival. If you carry an EpiPen or need a strict approach, bring a short allergy card in English to show when you order. Spice can be dialled down for children.
Prices and payments
Hanki sits in the $$–$$$ range for Rovaniemi. You pay for quality ingredients and careful cooking. Card and contactless payments are standard. Service is included in Finnish menu prices. Tipping is optional and at your discretion.
Facilities and practicalities
The room is compact, so mention a buggy when booking. Ask about high chairs if you need one. Toilets are warm and clean. Parking is available nearby. If you need hot water for a bottle, staff will help. Free Wi-Fi is common in town; save maps and your booking confirmation before you head out in the cold.
Fitting Hanki into a winter day
Keep the rhythm simple. Plan one short activity in the morning near a warm hut, a rest and snack in the afternoon, then an early dinner at Hanki. Korean food pairs well with winter appetites: warm rice, grilled meats and soups that bring heat without heaviness. After dinner, enjoy a quiet walk back to the hotel and an early night.
Example orders for mixed tastes
Cautious child: mild grilled chicken with plain rice, sauce on the side
Adventurous child: small bowl of kimchi stew at low heat, extra rice
Parents: pork with crisp edges or a seasonal fish dish, shared side salad and kimchi
For everyone: warm tea, berry juice or still water
Winter tips for families
Dress in layers you can remove easily. Floors near the door can be damp from snow. Spare socks help with small children. Bring a small table activity for waiting times between courses. If an activity runs late, call the restaurant to adjust your time.
FAQs
Do we need to reserve a table in winter?
Yes. Book for December, February and weekends. Early sittings are calmest with children.
Is there a kids’ menu?
There is no formal kids’ menu, but the kitchen can do mild grilled dishes, rice and smaller portions.
Can dishes be made less spicy?
Yes. Ask for low heat and sauces on the side.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes. Vegetarian and vegan choices are available and staff can advise.
Can gluten-free diners eat here?
Some dishes can be adapted. Check soy sauce and marinade ingredients with staff before ordering.