Are you looking for some amazing restaurants in the Reykjavik area? This is a list of the top restaurants in Reykjavik, and I’ve collaborated on it with a few other bloggers who are also friends of mine.
This is a list of the greatest restaurants in Reykjavik, and we have made an effort to include options that would appeal to a diverse audience. We can provide you with food from the street, a tasting menu at the highest level, or even the most renowned hot dogs in the city, so don’t worry about what you want to eat.
It is important to make the most of your time in Reykjavik by participating in some of the following activities, which will help you feel more at home in the city:
- Reykjavik Food Walk – Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland
- Iceland: Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik
- Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater
- From Reykjavik: South of Iceland Full-Day Trip
- From Reykjavik: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Trip
- Reykjavik: Northern Lights Luxury Yacht Tour
Contents
The 13 Best Reykjavik Restaurants:
SushiSocial
Þingholtsstræti 5 // +354 568 6600
Despite the fact that the name of this restaurant could lead one to believe that it only offers sushi, I decided to try a variety of Icelandic specialties at SushiSocial. These included puffin, whale, reindeer, and Iceland’s world-famous local lamb.
You may purchase meals a la carte, including the sushi, but if you truly want to sample a couple of the same one-of-a-kind regional delicacies that I did, I recommend that you book a tasting menu instead.
We went with the seven-course Icelandic feast, which maintains true to the restaurant’s aim by incorporating Japanese influences into the finest Icelandic cuisine.
Additionally, SushiSocial is known for its expertise in Japanese Wagyu beef, which comes directly from Japanese Black Cattle that have been bred in Japan.
Although it’s a bit of an indulgent supper, I think of it as an amazing opportunity to try a bunch of different regional foods all at once, so I think it’s well worth it.
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur
Tryggvagata 1 // 354 511 1566
The phrase “the finest hot dog in town” (Baejarins beztu pylsur) translates literally to that phrase. But judging by the number of residents and tourists that stand in line for them on a daily basis, it’s possible that this location delivers the finest hot dogs in the whole globe.
The hot dog stand, which has been in operation for more than sixty years, has evolved into something of an institution for tourists that come to Iceland. Not only has it been recognized as having the finest hot dog in Europe, but Forbes has also deemed the proprietor to be the most successful hot dog seller in the whole globe! Even former President Bill Clinton has been known to swing by and sample one for himself.
So, what is it about this hot dog that makes it so delicious? The sausage is made with pig, beef, and lamb, and it is served with not one, but two different kinds of onions: crispy fried onions, as well as raw onions. Ketchup, spicy mustard, and mayonnaise flavored with gherkins and capers are some of the condiments that are offered.
Make sure you get more than one, since I can almost promise that you’ll want at least two helpings of it!
GLÓ
Laugavegur 20b // +354 553 1111
Megan of Megan Starr is the source of this suggestion.
The idea of Gló was first conceived in 2008 by Sólveig Eirksdóttir and Elas Gumundsson, who are jointly credited as its creators. The two entrepreneurs built their first restaurant in 2013, and because to their commitment to serving organic and regional food, it was an instant success with both natives and visitors to the area.
Because Iceland does not have a large number of native components, for many decades, the country’s native products have been disregarded and pushed to the side in favor of imported and unusual commodities. But Gló was instrumental in cultivating an appreciation for Iceland’s unique and seasonal ingredients as part of an endeavor to make cuisine that was more flavorful, natural, and environmentally responsible.
The menu is always being updated and is different every day. Dishes that are suitable for raw diets, vegan diets, and other dietary preferences are always available on the menu. Gló has maintained its popularity among the locals and now has four separate locations, serving the residents of Reykjavik as well as those who travel from afar in search of good, substantial, and seasonal Icelandic cooking.
3 Frakkar
14 Baldursgata // +354 552 3939
Liliane of My Toronto, My World offered the following suggestion:
The restaurant known as 3 Frakkar has been in operation in Reykjavik since its establishment in 1989. Although fish courses are their speciality, they also provide a variety of other cuisines.
Because it is a more intimate restaurant with less than fifty seats, you may have to wait for a table depending on the time of day that you visit.
Because we had heard so much about the high cost of food in Iceland before coming there, we made it a point to steer clear of more upscale dining establishments until we reached the capital city of Reykjavik. We selected 3 Frakkar since their menu had several dishes that were unfamiliar to us.
Our party of six was able to sample a good portion of the restaurant’s offerings, including smoked puffin, whale, wild seabird, and even horse. The smoked puffin had a flavor that was reminiscent of sushi.
The remaining meals each had their own distinctive tastes and textures, but it wouldn’t be a waste of time to sample any of them. The restaurant has a pleasant ambiance, and if you are interested in sampling some of the more unusual delicacies that Iceland has to offer, then you should go to 3 Frakkar. This restaurant is highly recommended.
Kaffi Vinyl
Hverfisgata 76 // +354 537 1332
Gallivant Girl’s own Anastasia, who highly recommends it
On Hverfisgata, in the heart of Reykjavik, you’ll find the sleek and modern restaurant-turned-record-store known as Kaffi Vinyl. In addition to that, it is the only vegan restaurant in all of Iceland and in all of Reykjavik! .
Kaffi Vinyl is an establishment that combines the functions of a bar, a restaurant, and a record shop. You may have vegan meals, sweets, and beverages almost every night, and local DJs will be spinning records from the store’s vinyl collection in the background.
The restaurant serves substantial meals that are vegan and include noodle dishes, lasagna, and salads along with sandwiches, wraps, and soups on their concise yet comprehensive menu. You should also not pass up the coffee and pastries that are being offered.
The Kaffi Vinyl establishment transforms into a coffee shop and juice bar during the day. It’s a terrific spot to hang out, get some work done, and enjoy Iceland’s take on vegan food thanks to the free wi-fi, amazing music, and eccentric design.
Reykjavik Fish Restaurant
Geirsgata 4a // +354 578 5656
Recommendation from: Brianne, from the blog A Traveling Life
The laid-back eatery is well-known for its fish and chips as well as its fish soup, both of which, according to the website, are prepared with “plenty of love.”
I decided to have a large basket of freshly cooked fish and chips for twenty dollars in the United States, and it was just what I needed. The Arctic char and steamed mussels, as well as the rest of their meals, looked really mouthwatering.
Because the restaurant is situated just across from the port, you can be certain that every meal will be served fresh, and in addition, there are some beautiful views.
Be sure to get some of their dill sauce on the side with your fish, then wash it all down with a viking beer.
Caruso
Austurstræti 22 // +354 562 7335
Recommendation from: Sherrie, Travel and Tourism As a Result of a Sherrie Affair
On our very last night in Reykjavik, we went out of our way to locate a genuine Italian restaurant, which was really exciting for me as an Italian. The building that houses Caruso’s restaurant may be found in the old district of Reykjavik at the intersection of Laekjargata and Austurstrae.
As soon as we walked inside Caruso’s, I got the distinct impression that I had wandered into the living room of a stranger. There were hardwood floors and beams everywhere, as well as white tablecloths and napkins on each table. We were shown up to their second level, which turned out to be a beautifully designed attic area. There is a guy playing his guitar in the background as candles are lit, creating a really romantic atmosphere.
Pizza made on a wood-burning stove, spaghetti, lamb, and shellfish all on the menu at Caruso’s. Their seafood risotto was incredibly mouthwatering, and it could hold its own against any dish served in Italy. While I greatly enjoyed their fish of the day, my husband tore through the Bolognese like it was nothing. We ordered Caruso’s Liquid Chocolate Cake as a fitting capstone to a perfect evening, and it did not disappoint.
The staff was really pleasant and helpful, the ambiance was just the right amount of intimate and romantic, and the meal was outstanding. It’s no surprise that Caruso’s is a fan favorite!
Restaurant Reykjavik
Vesturgata 2 // +354 552 3030
Advised by Carole of the travel blog Travels With Carole
This sizable eatery can be found inside the walls of the ancient building known as Old Dock, which can be found in the heart of Reykjavik. It was constructed in 1863, making it the third oldest residence in the city.
The restaurant’s open atmosphere is filled with pleasant clusters of seating for groups of patrons, and the helpful wait staff does their best to keep things moving along in this environment. The cooks are really talented and are able to provide a huge quantity of delectable dishes each and every night (the restaurant is open only for dinner).
During my meal at this establishment, I decided to start with an appetizer of Arctic char, which was served with a velvety beet puree and was artfully arranged on the plate.
There are also other options available, such as smoked whale, herring in curry, and the more common coconut shrimp. My main course consisted of a delectable and filling monkfish topped with Hollandaise sauce and served beside a potato cake. There are a few options that are not seafood-based, such as turkey breast, which were similarly delicious and had an excellent level of freshness. I accompanied it with a delicious Pinot Grigio from Italy to round off the meal.
A gratifying piece of white chocolate cake with caramel paste was the perfect way to round up my dinner, but you could also complete your meal with cheesecake or a brownie if you want. It would be a dream come true if I could have another delectable meal at this bright yellow mansion someday.
Noodle Station
Laugavegur 103 // +354 551 3198
Michael of the website The World Was Here First offered the following suggestion:
We spent the most of our time in Iceland buying food from supermarkets and preparing it ourselves. This turned out to be a good technique for keeping our expenses down while we were there since it allowed us to save money. On the other hand, on the morning of our last day in Reykjavik, which was a brisk April day, we were eager to warm ourselves up and happened to stumble onto Noodle Station, a straightforward noodle soup restaurant.
The menu at Noodle Station consists mostly of noodle soup, which may be ordered with either beef, chicken, or veggies. However, the quality of the meals themselves is in no way reflected by their seeming lack of complexity. The proprietor of the business is from Thailand, and his family has a recipe for a soup that uses a combination of top-secret ingredients and is based on a traditional family recipe.
Noodle Station is a wonderful way to warm up and experience the delectable tastes of Asia in the Icelandic capital city of Reykjavik, despite the fact that Reykjavik has a cool temperature. It is also a wonderful spot to visit if you are on a tight budget; a bowl of noodle soup with veggies will run you less than one thousand ISK.
There are presently three Noodle Station locations in Iceland, one of which is located in the heart of Reykjavik and serves as an excellent place to grab lunch after a day of sightseeing.
Svarta Kaffið
Laugavegur 54 // +354 551 2999
Two Restless Homebodies, Luke and Meagan, are the ones who came up with this one.
When you go to Iceland in the winter, you should be prepared to spend your days gazing in amazement at the breathtaking natural scenery all around you… They crouched down to protect themselves from the stinging wind. What is the best treatment? a soak in the hot tub at the neighborhood fitness club or community center before making your way to Svarta Kaffid, which is located directly on Laugavegur in the heart of Reykjavik.
This pub-like establishment on the second floor has two enormous copper cauldrons filled with soup on its bar, which also features a comprehensive selection of local and international European beers. Even though the ingredients and recipes vary every day, we always make sure to have one soup that is vegetarian and another that is meat-based. The soups are rich and creamy, and they are served in fresh bread bowls that are just irresistible.
It’s one of the best meals you’ll find in this generally pricy town, and it only costs USD $18 per person (excluding alcohol), making it one of the more economical options as well.
A helpful piece of advice is to dine there outside of the typical supper rush, particularly on days when it is chilly. If you don’t do this, you’ll end yourself waiting in line that wraps around the block!
Studentakjallarinn
Háskólatorg – University Square, University of Iceland // +354 570 0890
Phenomenal Globe’s Lotte gives her stamp of approval.
On the campus of the University of Iceland is a dining option known as Studentakjallarinn (Student Cellar), which offers excellent food at reasonable prices. The cafe serves lunch and supper, both of which come in ample amounts, and the prices are reasonable.
You may find their vegan and vegetarian selections among other options, such as this burger that comes with a side of sweet potato fries and nachos. The meal surpassed our expectations, despite the fact that it was not really haute cuisine.
The restaurant caters mostly to student patrons, hence the environment tends to be quite laid back. In point of fact, when we went there, there was a bustling scene of people speaking while playing cards and drinking beer. The majority of the people there were foreign students.
In the near future, they also want to roll out a new brunch menu.
Satt
Nautholsvegur 52 // +354 444 4050
Submitted by: Natasha from Meldrums on the Move with the suggestion
The dishes at Satt, a restaurant that is authentically Icelandic in every way, are made using ingredients that are gathered from the region and provided by the most skilled farmers and fisherman. The recipes are traditional Icelandic fare, but with a contemporary touch and a focus on healthful and healthy ingredients.
Satt, which lies on the outskirts of the city and is located inside the well-known Icelandair Hotel Natura in Reykjavik, caters more toward visitors than it does to budget travelers. I thought it was rather elegant.
The restaurant serves lunch and supper every day of the week, as well as brunch on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Every meal is presented in the form of a buffet. The buffet features traditional brunch foods, as well as nutritious courses and many distinctive dishes, all in one convenient location.
The menu was quite restricted, but it had both regional and foreign dishes that were popular, such as fish and chips (served with sweet potato fries), carbonara, and Caesar salad. They also served some wonderful pizza cooked in a wood-burning oven.
Be sure to check out both their regular happy hours as well as their rotating specials offering two drinks for the price of one.
Icelandic Street Food
8 Lækjargata // +354 691 3350
Suggested by: Talek of Travels With Talek
Icelandic Street Food is a small, cozy restaurant in the center of Reykjavik. Inside, customers dine communally at long counters with wooden stools. And while the place may appear a bit unassuming from the outside, its looks are very definitely deceiving. The food is fantastic! Despite their name, they don’t serve typical street food. The restaurant specializes in shellfish and lamb soups served in an edible bread bowl.
What really makes Icelandic Street Food so appealing is the restaurant’s owner — a friendly, funny, pleasant guy in a bow tie who happily explained the characteristics of Icelandic food and treated us to a sample of his grandmother’s pastries.
Icelandic Street Food is a great place to take the chill off in this cold but warm-hearted city.
Which of these Reykjavik restaurants looks best to you? Let me know in the comments section below!
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FAQs
What is Iceland’s most popular food?
Fish, lamb, or Icelandic skyr are the staples of Icelandic cuisine. Skyr is a sort of yogurt (a type of yogurt). Since the beginning of recorded history, they have been the foundational components of the Icelandic cuisine. As a result of Iceland’s limited availability of farmable land in the past, the majority of Icelandic meals center on meat.
What are three of the most popular foods in Reykjavik Iceland?
The most prevalent types of fish are cod, salmon, and haddock, and langoustines, which are a favorite of the majority of gourmands in the area. “Lobster is widely considered to be one of Icelanders’ favorite foods. “The little Icelandic langoustine is extremely tender and tasty, and it is a favorite for many people, including myself, despite its high price tag,” joked Halldorsson.
What is the number one food in Iceland?
Lamb. Icelandic cuisine is characterized by the prominent use of lamb as a component. Due to the fact that their sheep are not confined by fences and are free to wander the hills, the lamb meat produced in this area is considered to be among the greatest in the world. The sheep are allowed to choose the tastiest morsels of grass, moss, and berries to graze on, and they drink from rivers that are sparkling from the melting glaciers.
What is a typical Icelandic breakfast?
The Icelandic word for thick oatmeal is hafragrautur, and a traditional Icelandic breakfast may include include Skyr with jam, bread with butter, and cod liver oil.
What time is dinner in Iceland?
Icelanders, like their counterparts in many other Scandinavian nations, often eat supper between the hours of six and eight o’clock in the evening. The traditional “meal hour” begins at 7 o’clock. Although you are free to eat at whatever hour you choose, the kitchens at the majority of Reykjavik’s restaurants are only open from six in the evening until twenty-two at night.