The 'lärvilautanen' holds its ground in Helsinki's nightlife

In the heart of Helsinki, along Yliopistonkatu, the tradition of consuming shots, particularly in large platter formats known as "lärvilautanen," persists. Shot Bar, a establishment in the city center, offers these multi-shot servings, with a six-shot platter priced at 35 euros and a thirteen-shot version at 65 euros.

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It has become common to take a lärvilauta with a group somewhere. Salmari is probably the best shot.

Despite a reported year-on-year decrease in binge drinking among younger demographics, this 1990s-era drinking concept appears to maintain its popularity in Helsinki's nightlife. The bar boasts an extensive menu of shot options, numbering in the dozens, if not hundreds, extending beyond traditional flavors to include various cocktail concoctions. Popular choices mentioned include "Wet Pussy," a mix of vodka, Triple Sec, lime, and cranberry juice, and "Hot Lesbian Action."

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People often stop by here for their first drinks of the evening. People also come here last at night.

Ensio Aho, visiting with friends for a birthday celebration, acknowledged drinking alcohol only on special occasions. He confirmed his familiarity with the "lärvilautanen," having partaken in them with groups in the past, favoring "salmari" (salmiakki liqueur) as his top shot choice. The bar's owner, Andro Shaita, noted that patrons often stop by for their initial drinks of the evening or as a final stop late at night.

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Yes, shots and lärvilautanen are consumed when it's a beautiful summer evening and the DJ is playing. A lärvilautanen belongs to summer.

Beyond Shot Bar, the concept extends to other venues. Lippa, an outdoor restaurant that opened last year, also features a "lärvilautanen" on its menu, offering eight shots for 50 euros. A supervisor there, Aale Teitto, commented that these platters are popular on pleasant summer evenings, especially with music playing, suggesting the "lärvilautanen" is a part of the summer experience. However, another supervisor, Marianne Pohto, emphasized that the platter is a "memory of the past" and intended for groups, stating, "We do not encourage anyone to drink."

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A lärvilauta and shots are a thing of the past for us. Except for Känkänen then.