The Nordics • Insider guides • The Nordic hot list March 2025
Stay informed and stay inspired! The Nordic hot list is your monthly dossier of what’s shaping the cultural and creative landscape across the Nordics. From smart new openings and design-forward projects to events worth pencilling into your diary, we spotlight the ideas and initiatives that matter. Whether you’re a local with a keen eye on your surroundings or a traveller seeking authentic inspiration, this is your curated guide to the things that are getting our attention (and deserve your’s, too).
Top photography courtesy of PoMo
01
PoMo, Trondheim’s new contemporary art museum, occupies the city’s historic 1911 Art Nouveau Post Office. Designed by India Mahdavi with Norwegian architect Erik Langdalen, the space merges bold colour with heritage. A hot-pink metal entrance contrasts the original brick façade, while a rooftop rainbow sign reads ‘our magic hour’. Inside, a salmon-pink gift shop nods to Norwegian seafood, and a mandarin-orange staircase recalls riverside warehouses. With three gallery floors and a strong focus on women artists – at least 60% of acquisitions – PoMo houses works by Louise Bourgeois, Franz West, and Sol LeWitt, under the direction of Marit Album Kvernmo.
Photography courtesy of PoMo
02
Akmē brings a fresh perspective to Copenhagen‘s dining scene with its innovative French-Japanese fusion cuisine. Led by chefs Emil Hassan Lyngbæk and Valdemar Junge Norvang, both alumni of esteemed establishments, the restaurant offers an intriguing blend of culinary traditions. The interior design reflects the minimalist elegance characteristic of both French and Japanese aesthetics. The menu showcases dishes that seamlessly merge the two influences, including a delicate miso-infused bouillabaisse, highlighting the depth and balance of flavours. Akmē continues to push boundaries, offering a dining experience that embraces both precision and creativity.
Photography courtesy of Akmē
03
Located in the region of Vestland, Norway, Lilløy Lindenberg is a marvel of luxury on its secluded island, surrounded by the expansive Northern Sea. This remote treasure, a collaboration between acclaimed interior designers Vera & Kyte and the visionary Lindeberg hotel group, opens its doors. The Norwegian duo Vera & Kyte are celebrated for their dynamic and innovative style, masterfully blending modern sophistication with the unspoiled beauty of nature.
Photography courtesy of Lilløy
04
Ikigai in Copenhagen is an offshoot of Madlab, serving breakfast, lunch, coffee and daily specials, focusing on Japanese-inspired flavours. Alongside its café offerings, Ikigai provides catering for private and corporate events. The menu highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients with dishes that reflect a thoughtful approach to Japanese cuisine. Signature options include delicate donburi bowls and carefully prepared onigiri. The café doubles as a learning hub, encouraging engagement with food through hands-on workshops.
Photography courtesy of Ikigai
05
In Stockholm‘s Vasastaden district, Swedish designer Gustav Winsth, in collaboration with Max Stjerna, has transformed Bobo’s showroom into a multifunctional space that serves as both a display area and an after-work bar. A bespoke terrazzo bar, equipped with distinct red and gold taps, offers negronis and beers, respectively. Illuminated stainless steel shelves showcase Bobo’s minimalist glassware collection, while a custom solid ash table on lockable wheels provides versatility for various events.
Photography courtesy of BoBo
06
Levantin, the Middle Eastern bistro on Copenhagen’s vibrant Værnedamsvej, has quickly made a name for itself with its refined take on Levantine cuisine. Now expanding into brunch, the restaurant blends Eastern Mediterranean flavours with the charm of a French bistro. The new brunch menu offers both a sharing option and à la carte dishes. Highlights include hummus, salted lemon, cheese and pickles, alongside reimagined brunch classics like eggs florentine and scrambled eggs. Freshly squeezed orange or grapefruit mimosas complete the experience.
Read the full article on Levantin.
Photography courtesy of Levantin
07
Grød, the Danish porridge bar founded by Lasse Skjønning Andersen, has arrived in Oslo’s Grünerløkka, bringing its signature take on wholesome grains to a city where porridge is firmly on everyone’s lips. Designed by Omhu, the interior blends warm terracotta floors, golden wood tones and exposed brick, with Frama’s oak communal tables and Hay’s Bruno Rey chairs encouraging shared dining. The open kitchen, finished with dark green Moroccan tiles and stainless steel, reflects Grød’s focus on simple, honest ingredients.
Photography courtesy of Grød
08
Kontion Leipomo, a beloved bakery and café in Rauma, Finland, collaborated with Shaw Interiors to revitalise its space. The redesign introduced earthy tones and natural materials, enhancing the cosy atmosphere that patrons have cherished since its establishment in 1959. Situated in old Rauma, in Finland’s Satakunta region, the café now features a charming courtyard where, during summer months, you can enjoy freshly prepared vanilla doughnuts. The updated interior features traditional Finnish design elements and contemporary touches, creating an inviting environment.
Photography courtesy of Kontion Leipomo
09
Photography courtesy of Fabriken by Pontus Frithiof
Share this
Sign up for the latest hotspot news from the Nordics.