The ho-ho-holiday season is finally here! Let’s welcome December and make the most of it with tantalising Nordic food and vibrant Christmas markets. 🎄

01 • OVERBRØD

(Photo adapted from: Daniel Food Diary and HungryGoWhere)

Of course, you could go to IKEA Alexandra for Swedish meatballs, but have you discovered this hidden gem just a stone’s throw away? OVERBRØD is a quaint Scandinavian cafe that offers an impressive array of Swedish and Danish-inspired food.

Kick off your culinary expedition with the iconic Smørrebrød. It’s Denmark and Norway’s famous open-faced sandwich served on buttered rye bread. Next, try the juicy Frikadeller meatballs before ending your meal with Gravadlax and Toast Skagen sandwiches.

📍 Address: 370 Alexandra Road, #01-14A, Singapore 159953
⏰ Opening hours: Mon to Fri, 10am – 3pm and 5pm – 10pm | Sat and Sun, 10am – 10pm
🍴 Halal status: Not halal
🌐 Website: instagram.com/overbrod

02 • Brasserie Astoria

(Photo adapted from: Spirited Singapore and TimeOut)

Brasserie Astoria is the brainchild of Swedish Michelin star chef Björn Frantzén. Set against the grandeur of Victoria Concert Hall, the restaurant’s first international outlet beckons guests to revel in a symphony of flavours.

The menu masterfully blends authenticity and modernity by redefining traditional Swedish dishes like the butter-fried Råraka and the classic Swedish Toast Skagen, which features succulent Norwegian king crab.

📍 Address: 11 Empress Place, Singapore 179558
⏰ Opening hours: Mon to Sun, 12pm – 2.30pm and 6pm – 10pm
📞 Contact: 9619 1567
🍴 Halal status: Not halal
🌐 Website: brasserieastoria.sg

03 • Konditori Artisan Bakes (halal)

(Photo adapted from: Burpple and Singapore Foodie)

Craving European delights with a halal touch? Look no further than Konditori, an artisanal bakery in the heart of Singapore offering a delectable array of Scandinavian pastries.

Sink your teeth into the delightful Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish, with crushed pistachios, powdered sugar, and a burst of fresh fruits. Their croissants with flavours like Smoked Salmon, Salted Caramel, and Black Forest will keep you wanting more. All in all, you’re in for a baking good time!

📍 Address: 33 Bussorah Street, Singapore 199451
⏰ Opening hours: 10am to 7.30pm daily
📞 Contact: 6209 8580
🍴 Halal status: Halal
🌐 Website: konditori.sg

04 • Fika Swedish Cafe & Bistro (halal)

(Photo adapted from: All About City and InaKoran)

Step into the welcoming embrace of Fika Swedish Cafe & Bistro for a halal experience surrounded by cosy ambience that’ll remind you of home.

You’ll find bestsellers like the quintessential Nordic breakfast known as Gravlax and Kale and Potato Pancakes. Remember to also try the Pan-Seared Cod with Portobello and Root Vegetables and the Kryddbaked Lax Med Rodbetor Och Sparris — it’s a mouthful to say, but this dish promises the fresh flavours of herb-crusted salmon accompanied by mashed potatoes and honey-ginger glazed beetroot.

📍 Address: 257 Beach Road, Singapore 199539
⏰ Opening hours: Sun to Thurs, 11am – 10pm | Fri and Sat 11am – 11pm
📞 Contact: 6396 9096
🍴 Halal status: Halal
🌐 Website: fikacafe.com

05 • Furama Riverfront Market

(Photo: Instagram)

Discover a vibrant festive market at Furama RiverFront, where you’ll find a treasure trove of unique finds from local artisans and small businesses.

From handmade treasures and vintage décor to captivating crafts and original artworks from independent creators, there’s much to check out and snag. You can also purchase organic luxurious cosmetics, bath products, adorable children’s clothes, and more. Embrace the joy of giving this holiday season by choosing gifts that carry the heart and soul of Singapore’s local artisan community! 💌

📍 Address: 405 Havelock Road, Ground Floor Lobby, Singapore 169633
⏰ Event timings: 13 November to 2 January, 11am – 6pm
📞 Contact: Contact form
🌐 Website: wearecrane.com

06 • Makers’ Market

(Photo: INVADE)

The outdoor space beside PLQ Mall will transform into an artisanal wonderland! Prepare to be wowed by handmade crafts from the local community. They include earrings, bracelets, postcards, keychains, crochet items, and more. If you’re looking for unique gifts for your loved ones this Christmas or New Year, this is the place to go. 🎁

📍 Address: PLQ Mall, 10 Paya Lebar Road, Singapore 409057
⏰ Event timings: 1 December to 31 December, Fri to Sun, 11am – 9pm
📞 Contact: Contact form
🌐 Website: invade.co

07 • Space Fest Weekend Market

(Photo: Singapore Expo)

Blast off into a cosmic celebration at this indoor space-themed carnival! There are over 20 rides and games by Uncle Ringo, retail booths, food trucks selling lip-smacking fare, stage performances, and plenty of other fun activities. What’s more, admission is free for all.

📍 Address: Singapore Expo, 1 Expo Drive, Singapore 486150
⏰ Event timings: 2 to 31 December, Mon to Thu, 1pm – 9pm | Sat and Sun, 11am – 9pm
📞 Contact: Contact form
🌐 Website: singaporeexpo.com.sg

08 • Mistletoe Alley

(Photo: Secret Singapore)

Mistletoe Alley Market is back with a more diverse selection of holiday treasures this year. Wander through enchanting light displays, snap a photo with Santa under the massive Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay, and take home handmade scented candles, cute succulents, and more. Here’s to experiencing a European market without leaving Singapore!

📍 Address: Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953
⏰ Event timings: 1 December to 1 January, 6.30pm – 11pm
📞 Contact: Contact form
🌐 Website: christmaswonderland.sg

(Featured photo adapted from: HungryGoWhere, EatBook.sg, Singapore Expo, Wonderwall.sg)