Reykjavik Restaurants

The dining scene in Reykjavík has diversified a great deal in the past few years: traditional Icelandic restaurants now face competition from restaurants serving Asian, Italian, Mexican, Indian, and vegetarian fare. A recent trend has seen the emergence of several upscale establishments emphasizing locally grown ingredients and new Nordic cuisine.

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  • 1. Austur-Indíafjelagið

    $$$$ | Indian

    Long before Reykjavík could boast of its cosmopolitan culture, this outstanding restaurant was busy with loyal local customers who enjoy authentic Indian cuisine. The gormandizing gets underway in a luxuriously decorated lounge where colorful, golden-brocade cushions, Tanjore painting, and teakwood walls frame a collection of Hindu deities. Here you can sip on a cool Cobra beer or Mysore masala cocktail, nibble on poppadoms (seasoned dough), and browse a menu of popular Indian classics with enough obscure regional dishes to impress any thali aficionado. The seafood dishes are worthy of consideration, too: the tandoori lasooni lobster and hariyali salmon are scrumptious, as are kozhi mappas chicken and achari gosht lamb.

    Hverfisgata 56, Reykjavík, 101, Iceland
    - 552–1630
  • 2. Brauð & Co

    $ | Miðbær

    Ágúst Einþórsson is the baker behind this local favorite, with its full displays full of simple yet perfect pastries and other baked goods. It's the kind of unflashy spot you stumble upon and can't get out of your head long after you return home.

    Frakkastígur 16, Reykjavík, Capital Region, 101, Iceland
    354-456–7777

    Known For

    • Superfresh cinnamon buns
    • Buttery croissants
    • Early open hours

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: No dinner
  • 3. Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

    $ | Miðbær

    In a parking lot facing the harbor, this tiny yet famous fast-food hut is known for serving the original Icelandic hot dog—and a single person serves about a thousand of them a day from the window. Ask for eina með öllu (pronounced "ayn-ah med utl-lou"), or "one with everything," which gets you mustard, tomato sauce, rémoulade (mayonnaise with finely chopped pickles), and chopped raw and fried onions.

    Tryggvagata and Pósthússtræti, Reykjavík, Capital Region, 101, Iceland
    354-511–1566

    Known For

    • Quick service
    • A wide variety of locally loved condiments
    • Incredibly helpful hot dog holders on the nearby tables
  • 4. Café Loki

    $$ | Miðbær

    This Icelandic food haven is a must-stop for many people around the world—just take a look at their guest book. Do yourself a favor and visit after taking in the views from the iconic Hallgrímskirkja; you'll feel like you're in the center of a Nordic movie set.

    Lokastígur 28, Reykjavík, Capital Region, 101, Iceland
    354-466–2828

    Known For

    • Location across from Hallgrímskirkja
    • Delicious homemade dishes
    • Friendly service
  • 5. Dill Restaurant

    $$$$ | Miðbær

    There's only one option at Dill: a tasting menu with a modern spin on traditional Icelandic dishes. In 2017, Dill was the first restaurant in Iceland to be awarded a Michelin star, with chef Gunnar Karl Gíslason at the helm. The spot is known around town for precision, and making a reservation here will win you brownie points with locals.

    Laugavegur 59, Reykjavík, Capital Region, 101, Iceland
    354-552–1522

    Known For

    • Spectacular tasting menu
    • Careful attention to detail with presentation
    • Downright delicious takes on Icelandic dishes

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. and Mon. year-round, Sat. every other week, and Tues. every other week. No lunch
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  • 6. Flatey Pizza

    $ | Vesturbær

    This spot serves up Neapolitan-style pies with slow-rising sourdough made on-site. Most of the menu stays relatively traditional when it comes to toppings, but the Pizza of the Week tends to be a bit more creative.

    Grandagarður 11, Reykjavík, Capital Region, 107, Iceland
    354-588–2666

    Known For

    • Unusual pizza of the week toppings (like dates)
    • Home-fermented pizza dough
    • Flavorful tomato sauce
  • 7. Flóran Garden Bistro

    $$ | Laugardalur

    This bistro has a truly unique location inside the botanic gardens of Reykjavík. Of course, much of what you'll find on the menu is grown in the gardens, and you can learn all about the sustainable practices of the kitchen.

    Grasagarðinum Laugarda, Reykjavík, Capital Region, 104, Iceland
    354-553–8872

    Known For

    • Organic ingredients
    • Truly unique atmosphere
    • Beautiful dish presentation
  • 8. Grái Kötturinn

    $$ | Miðbær

    This plain and simple breakfast spot has won the hearts of many politicians who work nearby—as well as Björk—and it tends to get quite busy. If you feel like taking on a huge meal, give "the Truck" (pancakes, eggs, bacon, fried potatoes, tomatoes, and toast) a go. All of the books on the shelves surrounding the tables are free for perusal while you wait for your food.

    Hverfisgata 16a, Reykjavík, Capital Region, 101, Iceland
    354-551–1544

    Known For

    • Signature "the Truck" breakfast
    • Frequented by local celebrities
    • Lots of books to read while you wait

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed weekends. No dinner
  • 9. Grandi Mathöll

    $ | Vesturbær

    This beautifully designed food hall may not be that big, housing just seven food stations, but it brings together some of the most exciting spots to eat in the city. Come here to check out Garlic, the Gastro Truck, Kore Grandi, Grandi's Pasta Shop, Annapurna Asian Spices, The Sheepfold, The Cold Store, and Fjárhúsið.

    Grandagarður 16, Reykjavík, Capital Region, 107, Iceland
    354-787–6200

    Known For

    • Variety of options
    • Design-forward space
    • Some of Reykjavík's best vendors in one space
  • 10. Grillmarkaðurinn

    $$$$ | Miðbær

    A collaborative project by well-known culinary innovators Hrefna Rós Sætran (founder and owner of the Fish Market) and Guðlaugur P. Frímannsson, Grillmarkaðurinn serves seasonal, organic, and locally grown ingredients in a beautifully designed interior that's heavy on natural materials such as wood and stone. The menu is equally "earthy," featuring lots of smoked, grilled, and barbecued meat dishes. For something classic, try the grilled chicken wings or grilled pork ribs; for something more unique, order the minke whale steak.

    Lækjargata 2A, Reykjavík, Capital Region, IS-101, Iceland
    354-571–7777

    Known For

    • Creative dishes using tried-and-true local ingredients
    • Traditional dishes served with a modern twist
    • Noteworthy tasting menus
  • 11. Hlemmur Mathöll

    $ | Miðbær

    This food hall features eight vendors loved by locals: Brauð & Co., Fuego, SKÁL!, Micro Roast Te & Kaffi, Flatey Pizza, Kröst, Fjárhúsið, and Báhn Mí. It's a great place for groups and kids.

    Laugavegur 107, Reykjavík, Capital Region, 101, Iceland
    354-577–6200

    Known For

    • Local favorites
    • Wide variety of options
    • Kid-friendly atmosphere
  • 12. Holt Restaurant

    $$ | Miðbær

    Icelandic art covers the walls of this restaurant in the Hótel Holt, within walking distance of downtown; the cocktail lounge and bar showcase drawings by Jóhannes Kjarval. It has long been at the forefront of Icelandic dining, with impeccable service and mouthwatering wild-game and seafood dishes—favorites include gravlax and reindeer. The bar's whiskey selection is as diverse as any in Europe.

    Bergstaðastræti 37, Reykjavík, Capital Region, 101, Iceland
    354-552–5700

    Known For

    • Impressive reserve wine list
    • Welcoming vibe
    • Diverse whiskey selection
  • 13. Hornið

    $$ | Miðbær

    This welcoming bistro is light and airy, with lots of natural wood, potted plants, and cast-iron bistro tables. The emphasis is on pizza and pasta, but there's also a selection of meat and fish dishes. Try the seafood soup, a favorite for lunch. Their delicious cakes can be enjoyed with the obligatory espresso at any time of day.

    Hafnarstræti 15, Reykjavík, Capital Region, 101, Iceland
    354-551–3340

    Known For

    • Large pizza menu
    • Cozy interior
    • Excellent seafood soup
  • 14. Íslenski Barinn

    $$ | Miðbær

    From traditional fish pie and meat soup to a spectacular waffle fry, Íslenski Barinn covers a lot of ground on its menu, but the focus is local at this restaurant and bar. You'll also find only beers and spirits made in Iceland—so don't come here looking for imports.

    Ingólfsstræti 1a, Reykjavík, Capital Region, 101, Iceland
    354-517–6767

    Known For

    • Delicious fish pie
    • Hyperlocal beer and spirit options
    • Perfect place to mix with the locals
  • 15. Kaffibrennslan

    $ | Miðbær

    By day, Kaffibrennslan is a cozy café, with a menu full of sandwich and soup options and every coffee drink you could imagine. At night, the scene changes and you're more likely to be taking a shot with the bartender than asking them which sandwich they prefer—no matter what, you're in for a great time. The second floor is an intimate loft area with window seating that overlooks the busy street below.

    Laugavegur, Reykjavík, Capital Region, Iceland
    354-511–5888

    Known For

    • Friendly bartenders
    • Cozy seating in the loft
    • Substantial sandwiches
  • 16. Kaffivagninn

    $ | Vesturbær

    Way back before the Grandi area was cool, this value restaurant with exceptional harbor views served up good, old-fashioned, hearty Icelandic food for a league of local fishermen. Although it’s still mainly patronized by marine-industry natives, an increasing number of tourists now venture through its humble doors to enjoy the quality fish balls and other tasty dishes.

    Grandagarði 10, Reykjavík, Capital Region, 107, Iceland
    354-551–5932

    Known For

    • Fresh seafood stew
    • Vegetarian friendly options
    • Standout fish-and-chips
  • 17. Kaktus Espressobar

    $

    Two friends came together to open this café, which specializes in Italian coffee and baked goods. The interior is airy and lively, the perfect spot to plan your day of adventures.

    Vitastígur 12, Reykjavík, Capital Region, Iceland
    869–3030

    Known For

    • Excellent coffee
    • Great value
    • Traditional coffeehouse vibes
  • 18. Kol Restaurant

    $$$ | Miðbær

    Sipping on a refreshing "Donkey" cocktail will add a spicy warmth to your cheeks while you take in this friendly spot's sights, sounds, and aromas, which intensify as the evening progresses. Each dish is carefully paired with wine and delivered with a detailed narrative by well-informed staff. Send your senses into overdrive with dishes like fruits de mer, charred salmon, or an assemblage of popular desserts aptly titled "Simply the Best."

    Skólavörðustíg 40, Reykjavík, Capital Region, 101, Iceland
    354-517–7474

    Known For

    • Incredibly cozy interior
    • "Simply the Best" desserts
    • Inviting and inspired cocktail list
  • 19. Kopar

    $$$$ | Scandinavian

    Kopar means "copper" in Icelandic—an element well represented in this handsome harborside restaurant, where the cocktails like the "Ginger Rabbit" are as refreshing as can be. The restaurant is frequented by both travelers and local businesspeople, who bring clients they wish to impress. The vintage touches and carnival-style string lights create an atmosphere that invites lingering over your meal. The best views are upstairs, where a large picture window surveys the bustling harbor and beyond. A popular experience is the "Kopar Adventure"—a multicourse meal, featuring a superb menagerie of seafood, meat, and delicious desserts.

    Geirsgata 3, Reykjavík, IS-101, Iceland
    -567–2700
  • 20. La Primavera Ristorante

    $$$ | Vesturbær

    Nestled on the first floor of the art-centric Marshall House, La Primavera's impressive interiors give you a taste of what's to come on the upper floors. If you never thought you'd find Italian dishes in Iceland to rival those you'd find in Italy, think again.

    Grandagarður 20, Reykjavík, Capital Region, 107, Iceland
    519–7766

    Known For

    • Authentic Italian cuisine
    • Impressive interior design
    • Excellent wine menu

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. and Mon.

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