Quick answers — eating in Reykjavik
- Best restaurant overall
- Dill Restaurant
- Best value
- Tapas Barinn (ISK 8,000-12,000 | USD 60-90)
- Strongest cuisines
- Nordic, Spanish, Steak & grill
- Dishes to try
- Kjötsúpa (Icelandic Lamb Soup), Pylsur (Icelandic Hot Dog), Plokkfiskur, Hákarl (Fermented Shark)
- Booking window
- For Michelin-starred restaurants like Dill and ÓX, book 1-3 months in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Cancellation policies are strict, often requiring full payment or a significant deposit upon booking.
Reservations are essential for fine-dining establishments, often several weeks in advance, especially for weekends. Dress codes typically lean towards smart casual, eschewing overly formal attire but encouraging thoughtful presentation. Tipping is not customary or expected in Iceland, as service charges are included. Dinner hours generally run from 6 PM to 10 PM.
Nordic
Best Nordic restaurants in Reykjavik
New Nordic kitchens work with a short local season — foraged herbs, fermentation, seafood — and usually serve one long tasting menu with no à la carte.
Dill Restaurant
One MICHELIN StarNew Nordic · Hafnarhús · ISK 25,000-35,000 | USD 180-250
Kári Þorsteinsson
Dill is an intimate, influential pioneer of New Nordic cuisine in Iceland, focusing on foraged and meticulously sourced ingredients. The tasting menu offers a narrative of the Icelandic landscape, presented in a minimalist yet warm setting. It's a journey through the country's unique flavors and culinary heritage, highlighting fermentation and ancient cooking techniques.
Order: Dried fish, Angelica schnapps
ÓX
One MICHELIN StarModern Icelandic · Laugavegur · ISK 28,000-38,000 | USD 200-270
Þráinn Freyr Vigfússon
ÓX offers a highly exclusive, interactive dining experience for a mere 17 guests around a chef's counter. The focus is on exceptional Icelandic ingredients, prepared with precision and flair, often right before your eyes. It's an evening of stories, culinary artistry, and perfectly paired wines, feeling more like a private dinner party than a restaurant.
Order: Crayfish and Scallops, Lamb with Juniper
Moss Restaurant
MICHELIN SelectedModern Icelandic · Blue Lagoon (Grindavík - near Reykjavik) · ISK 20,000-30,000 | USD 145-215
Agnes Sigurðardóttir
Located at the iconic Blue Lagoon, Moss Restaurant offers an elevated dining experience celebrating Icelandic produce within a stunning volcanic landscape. The tasting menu thoughtfully showcases seasonal ingredients with refined technique. The minimalist design and panoramic views create a serene and memorable atmosphere, complementing the inventive dishes derived from nature.
Order: Langoustine with Arctic Herbs, Reindeer Tartare
Matur og Drykkur
Bib GourmandModern Icelandic · Old Harbour · ISK 10,000-15,000 | USD 75-110
Gísli Matthías Auðunsson
Matur og Drykkur revives forgotten Icelandic culinary traditions with a modern twist, drawing inspiration from old cookbooks. Located in a renovated salt fish factory, the atmosphere is cozy and unpretentious. Dishes are creative, flavorful, and often feature lesser-used ingredients, offering an authentic taste of Iceland's culinary past reimagined for today's palate.
Order: Cod's Head, Grandma's Fish Soup
Apótek Kitchen + Bar
MICHELIN SelectedModern European/Icelandic · Downtown · ISK 10,000-18,000 | USD 75-130
Snædís Júlía Jóhannesdóttir
Housed in a beautiful historic building that was once an apothecary, Apótek offers a sophisticated yet energetic dining experience. The menu features a fusion of Icelandic and European flavors, with a strong emphasis on cocktails and an impressive wine list. It’s a stylish choice for both casual bites and a full-course meal, known for its consistency and vibrant atmosphere.
Order: Icelandic Char, Lamb Fillet
Fiskmarkaðurinn (Fish Market)
MICHELIN SelectedAsian-Icelandic Fusion · Downtown · ISK 12,000-20,000 | USD 90-145
Haukur Már Örvarsson
Fiskmarkaðurinn is a pioneer in Icelandic-Asian fusion, offering exquisitely prepared fresh seafood alongside innovative sushi and other creative dishes. The vibrant, multi-level dining room provides a dynamic backdrop to the culinary artistry. It's a consistently popular choice for those seeking high-quality, inventive seafood preparations and a buzzing atmosphere in the heart of Reykjavik.
Order: Crispy Crab, Sushi and Sashimi Selection
Kol Restaurant
MICHELIN SelectedModern Icelandic · Skólavörðustígur · ISK 10,000-18,000 | USD 75-130
Kjartan Einarsson
Kol Restaurant offers a stylish and modern setting, known for its creative approach to Icelandic ingredients, often incorporating global influences. The cocktail bar is a highlight, serving innovative drinks. Dishes are beautifully presented and full of flavor, making it a great spot for a contemporary dining experience in a trendy part of the city. The atmosphere is upscale yet relaxed.
Order: Lobster & Crab Salad, Lamb Ribeye
Spanish
Best Spanish restaurants in Reykjavik
Spanish dining runs late and sociable: tapas standing at the bar, then a proper sit-down at 9pm or later. Basque kitchens in particular sit among the best in Europe.
Tapas Barinn
MICHELIN SelectedIcelandic Tapas · Downtown · ISK 8,000-12,000 | USD 60-90
Tapas Barinn offers a unique Icelandic take on Spanish tapas, providing a convivial atmosphere to sample a wide array of local ingredients in small, shareable plates. From puffin to lamb and various seafood, the menu is diverse and designed for exploration. It's a lively spot perfect for experiencing multiple facets of Icelandic flavors in a casual setting.
Order: Puffin with Blueberry Sauce, Mini Lamb Fillet
Steak & grill
Best steak and grill restaurants in Reykjavik
Grill rooms are about sourcing and fire: ask where the beef comes from, how long it was aged, and order one cut to share rather than two on separate plates.
Grillmarkaðurinn (Grillmarket)
MICHELIN SelectedGrill/Modern Icelandic · Downtown · ISK 12,000-20,000 | USD 90-145
Hrefna Rósa Sætran
Grillmarket is renowned for its use of local Icelandic ingredients, often cooked on an open grill, giving dishes a distinctive smoky flavor. The vibrant interior design, inspired by Icelandic nature, complements the rustic yet refined menu. It's a popular choice for both locals and tourists seeking high-quality steaks, seafood, and a lively dining experience.
Order: Whale steak, Lobster spring rolls
Budget
Where to eat cheaply in Reykjavik
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur
A legendary hot dog stand serving Icelandic lamb hot dogs with various toppings (ketchup, sweet mustard, fried onion, raw onion, remoulade). Expect to pay around ISK 600-800 per hot dog.
Noodle Station
A bustling spot for quick, delicious, and warming Thai-style noodle soups with chicken, beef, or vegetables. Portions are generous and flavorful, perfect for a cold day. Mains range from ISK 1,500-2,000.
Fish & Chips Vagninn
Located by the Old Harbour, this food truck offers excellent quality, fresh Icelandic cod and chips. Simple, perfectly fried, and served with a smile. A meal typically costs around ISK 2,500-3,000.
Brauð & Co
An organic bakery famous for its sourdough bread, cinnamon buns (snúður), and other pastries. A perfect stop for a quick breakfast or snack. A cinnamon bun costs around ISK 600-800.
Reykjavík Roasters
A popular coffee shop known for its high-quality, ethically sourced beans roasted on-site. Enjoy excellent coffee, pastries, and a cozy atmosphere. A coffee typically costs ISK 600-800.
Local dishes
What to eat in Reykjavik
Kjötsúpa (Icelandic Lamb Soup)
A hearty, traditional lamb soup, rich with chunks of tender lamb, potatoes, carrots, and various root vegetables, seasoned with Icelandic herbs. It's a warming and comforting dish, particularly popular during colder months. Find authentic versions at Icelandic Street Food or most traditional Icelandic restaurants.
Pylsur (Icelandic Hot Dog)
More than just a hot dog, Iceland's version is typically made from a blend of lamb, pork, and beef, often served with raw onions, crispy fried onions, sweet mustard, and remoulade. It's a beloved fast-food staple. The most famous place to try it is Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur.
Plokkfiskur
A traditional Icelandic fish stew made from boiled fish (often cod or haddock), potatoes, and onions, mashed together and often bound with béchamel sauce. It's usually served with dark rye bread and butter. Messinn is renowned for its delicious and authentic Plokkfiskur.
Hákarl (Fermented Shark)
A challenging but iconic Icelandic delicacy. Greenland shark or basking shark is fermented for several months and then hung to dry. It has a very strong ammoniacal taste and pungent odor. Often served in small cubes with a shot of Brennivín. You can sample it at some traditional restaurants or local markets like Kolaportið.
Skyr
A cultured dairy product, similar to Greek yogurt but with a milder, creamier texture and higher protein content. It's been a staple of the Icelandic diet for over a thousand years, typically enjoyed plain or with fruit, honey, or a sprinkle of sugar. Widely available at supermarkets and cafes like Brauð & Co.
Rúgbrauð (Rye Bread)
A dense, dark, and slightly sweet rye bread, traditionally baked in a pot buried near a hot spring or in a geothermal oven. It's often served with butter, smoked salmon, or pickled herring. Try it fresh from a local bakery or as an accompaniment to Plokkfiskur.
Harðfiskur (Dried Fish)
Wind-dried fish, usually cod, haddock, or catfish, resembling jerky. It's a high-protein snack, traditionally eaten with a generous smear of butter. You'll find it in supermarkets and sometimes served as an appetizer in restaurants. A true taste of Iceland's preservation heritage.
Kleina (Icelandic Doughnut)
A traditional Icelandic fried pastry, distinctively twisted into a knot shape. It has a slightly crisp exterior and a soft, cake-like interior, often flavored with cardamom. Perfect with a cup of coffee. Look for it in local bakeries and cafes across Reykjavik, such as Sandholt Bakery.
How to book a table in Reykjavik
- · For Michelin-starred restaurants like Dill and ÓX, book 1-3 months in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Cancellation policies are strict, often requiring full payment or a significant deposit upon booking.
- · Consider weekday lunch menus at fine-dining establishments, if offered, as they often provide a more accessible price point to experience the chef's cuisine. Availability is typically better than dinner.
- · Be aware of no-show policies. Many top restaurants require credit card details to secure a booking and will charge a significant fee for no-shows or late cancellations, so plan accordingly.
- · For MICHELIN Selected restaurants, booking a few weeks ahead is usually sufficient, though spontaneous walks-ins might be possible during off-peak hours. Always check the restaurant's website directly for the latest availability.
FAQ
Reykjavik restaurant questions travellers ask
What is the best restaurant in Reykjavik?
Dill Restaurant in Hafnarhús is the benchmark table — New Nordic, led by Kári Þorsteinsson, one michelin star, around ISK 25,000-35,000 | USD 180-250 per person. Order the Dried fish, Angelica schnapps
Where is the best Nordic restaurant in Reykjavik?
Dill Restaurant in Hafnarhús is the Nordic table to book in Reykjavik (ISK 25,000-35,000 | USD 180-250 per person). Other strong options: ÓX, Moss Restaurant, Matur og Drykkur.
Where is the best Spanish restaurant in Reykjavik?
Tapas Barinn in Downtown is the Spanish table to book in Reykjavik (ISK 8,000-12,000 | USD 60-90 per person).
Where is the best steak and grill restaurant in Reykjavik?
Grillmarkaðurinn (Grillmarket) in Downtown is the steak and grill table to book in Reykjavik (ISK 12,000-20,000 | USD 90-145 per person).
Where can I eat well in Reykjavik without spending a fortune?
Tapas Barinn is the best-value table on this list at roughly ISK 8,000-12,000 | USD 60-90 per person. Beyond fine dining, locals point to Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, Noodle Station, Fish & Chips Vagninn.
How far in advance should I book restaurants in Reykjavik?
For Michelin-starred restaurants like Dill and ÓX, book 1-3 months in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Cancellation policies are strict, often requiring full payment or a significant deposit upon booking. Consider weekday lunch menus at fine-dining establishments, if offered, as they often provide a more accessible price point to experience the chef's cuisine. Availability is typically better than dinner.
What food is Reykjavik famous for?
Kjötsúpa (Icelandic Lamb Soup), Pylsur (Icelandic Hot Dog), Plokkfiskur, Hákarl (Fermented Shark), Skyr — the dishes most worth eating where they come from. A hearty, traditional lamb soup, rich with chunks of tender lamb, potatoes, carrots, and various root vegetables, seasoned with Icelandic herbs. It's a warming and comforting dish, particularly popular during colder months. Find authentic versions at Icelandic Street Food or most traditional Icelandic restaurants.
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