Meet the Chefs Shaping the Tasting ExperienceErik Mansikka – The Chef behind the Coast & Archipelago menu
With extensive experience in culinary competitions, Erik was awarded the Finnish Chef of the Year title in 2013. He is a respected and forward-thinking developer of Finnish gastronomy, with a career rooted in local ingredients, long-term craftsmanship, and a Nordic fine dining philosophy that is deeply connected to place. His approach reflects a consistent focus on seasonality, precision, and a deep respect for the ingredients he works with. Erik is the founder of the acclaimed Restaurant Kaskis in Turku, named one of the best restaurants in Finland.

Kaskis was awarded a Michelin star in 2022. The award was especially notable, as it marked the first Michelin star in Finland awarded outside the capital, Helsinki. In 2025, Kaskis was also recognized for its sustainability efforts when it received a Michelin Green Star.

Joel Manninen – The Chef behind the Lapland menu
Chef Joel Manninen represents a new generation of leading Finnish culinary talent. He gained national recognition after winning the Finnish Young Chefs Championship in 2025, and further established his international standing with a silver medal at the Young Chefs World Championship in 2026, organized by the prestigious gastronomic association Chaîne des Rôtisseurs.

His cuisine focuses on northern ingredients and a modern Arctic approach, where refined technical skill meets creativity and a distinct personal vision. Known for his contemporary interpretation of the North, he works at the intersection of flavor, technique, and the Arctic environment that shapes his cooking.

Joel is Head Chef at Sky Kitchen & View, a scenic restaurant set atop Ounasvaara fell in Rovaniemi, within Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara. The restaurant is widely regarded as one of the top dining establishments in Finland.

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