April 2, 2025

Where to Find the Best Restaurants in Reykjavik

IcelandRestaurant Guides

It may be surprising to learn that Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland, is home to a thriving food scene that offers something for everyone -- even the foodiest travelers. On my first trip to Iceland in 2016, I honestly had no idea what Icelandic cuisine would be like. My expectations weren’t high, so I was pleasantly surprised to discover there is so much more than fish in Reykjavik. I have traveled to Iceland seven separate times, as part of my job as a tour guide & trip leader, so I am always sampling new Reykjavik restaurants.

From traditional Icelandic dishes made with locally grown or caught ingredients to creative fusion cuisine with international inspiration, there's no shortage of delicious options to choose from.

In addition to traditional Icelandic restaurants, Reykjavik is home to a number of trendy eateries and food trucks that offer a more casual dining experience. And of course, no trip to Reykjavik would be complete without trying some traditional Icelandic fare, such as fermented shark, lamb, or skyr.

In this blog post, I'll reveal some of the best restaurants and eateries in Reykjavik for each meal of the day, giving you a taste of the culinary delights that the city has to offer. So whether you're looking for a sit-down meal or a quick bite on the go, you'll find plenty of delicious options in Reykjavik.

Where to Find the Best Restaurants in Reykjavik

Coffee

Mokka Kaffi

Located on the rainbow road, Mokka Kaffi is the perfect spot to grab a cup of coffee and relax. Known for its cozy atmosphere with warm wooden accents and comfortable seating, you’ll see plenty of locals chatting over a latte or reading a magazine. You can also get coffee to go, if you just need a quick caffeine boost while exploring downtown. The espresso leans towards a dark, Italian style roast, but great quality nonetheless.

Find My Complete Reykjavik Coffee Guide

Reykjavik Roasters

Considered one of the finest coffee shops in Iceland, Reykjavik Roasters is a haven for coffee lovers. Known for its in-house roasting, this café delivers an authentic and aromatic experience with every cup. This is probably my favorite espresso in Reykjavik. The cozy, minimalist interior, adorned with second hand vintage furniture, creates a perfect space to relax. Popular with locals and visitors alike, Reykjavik Roasters is just steps away from Hallgrimskirkja so you can get your caffeine kick before see one of Reykjavik’s tourist highlights.

Bakeries

Brauð & Co

The brightly painted exterior of Braud & Co is a Reykjavik landmark – and the delicious pastries inside are equally as beloved. This trendy bakery and cafe is located steps away from the Hallgrímskirkja church. Specializing in sourdough breads, everything in the clear glass case will entice you. I asked the employee what her favorite item was, and she said the cardamom bun, so I ordered that, along with a croissant and a cinnamon bun (I didn’t skimp out). Honestly, everything was delicious! The texture of the breads is really what shines with large sourdough bubbles and flaky pastry dough.

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Sandholt

Everything about Sandholt is perfection. The aesthetic. The pastries. The vibes. I love it all. This family run bakery is in its 4th generation of artisanal baking, and the experience shows! Offering a wide range of patisserie items, breads and pastries, I can just about guarantee you will find an item (or 5) that you want to eat from Sandholt. I particularly like their savory items, such as the toad-in-a-hole breakfast croissant or their smoked salmon sandwich. Dine-in or take away options are available. They also happen to have fantastic espresso. The ambiance is impeccable. 

Lunch & Quick Eats

Le Kock

Known for its gourmet approach to fast food, Le Kock (which means chef in Icelandic) is the place to come for great burgers & sandwiches in Reykjavik. Founded by three chefs with fine dining backgrounds, the place has such a cool vibe with tattoo style art on the walls and punk music playing. 

The menu features items such as burgers, wings, and sandwiches, all crafted in-house using local Icelandic ingredients whenever possible. And vegetarians & vegans are welcome – they have the top rated vegan burger in Reykjavik for 3 years in a row! I ordered the big red machine, a spicy fried chicken sandwich with Japanese inspired toppings. The loaded potatoes are really good too! I ordered the parmesan potatoes, which come topped with pickles chilis, thai basil, and a garlic parmesan cream sauce.

Cafe Loki

Located directly in front of the Hallgrímskirkja church, Cafe Loki is a lovely choice for a simple and affordable lunch. The humble restaurant was started by two sisters, who slowly grew the business to include multiple floors and the building next store. If the upstairs is open, choose to sit up there. It has a really nice view of the church! The menu focuses on Icelandic home cooking, and many of the recipes have been adapted from their grandmother.

One of the must-try dishes on the menu is the rye bread ice cream. It is a local specialty based on their family’s love for volcanic baked rye bread. Bits of bread are crumbled into a simple vanilla ice cream batter, which is traditionally made with milk in Iceland instead of heavy cream. The texture is denser and icer, but the flavor of the bread is delightful.

  • Address: Lokastígur 28, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
  • Website: http://loki.is/

Sæta Svínið Gastropub

Sitting on the corner of Reykjavik’s bustling city square, Sæta Svínið is known for its innovative cuisine and cozy atmosphere. I would describe the interior as eating inside a stylish fisherman’s home. There are quirky paintings, nautical light fixtures, and polaroid photos adorned to the pillars. With a focus on locally-sourced ingredients prepared with modern techniques and international inspiration, there will be several dishes that appeal to you. I wound up ordering three different things – truffle fries, bang bang cauliflower and fish tacos – and loved them all! The gastropub also boasts an impressive selection of craft beers, making it a great choice for a casual lunch or fun evening out.

Hot Dog Spots

Víkinga Pylsur

With Hallgrimskirkja as a backdrop, Víkinga Pylsur serves up some of the best hot dogs in Reykjavik. Following the tradition of Icelandic "pylsur" (hot dogs), Víkinga Pylsur brings a new twist to the Reykjavik hot dog cart scene. I guess describing their best selling item as a hot dog is a bit misleading – it's more like shredded meat in a hot dog bun. And it is GREAT! I really loved the pulled lamb dog, which comes with bearnaise sauce and crispy onions. A popular food truck-style spot, Víkinga Pylsur offers a quick, budget-friendly bite with authentic Icelandic flair. There are picnic tables nearby to eat with a view!

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Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

After living in both Chicago and now Germany, I am something of an expert on all things hot dogs and sausages. So you can imagine my skepticism when someone told me that the best hot dog they ever ate was in Reykjavik. I knew I had to do some investigating. Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur is THE street food spot in Reykjavik, beloved by locals and tourists alike. Even Bill Clinton ate here once! It opens early and closes late, so you can come for a dog anytime of the day. On weekends or holidays, you’ll see a long line.

What is special about the Icelandic hot dog is the sausage itself – it is a lamb hot dog. Served in a soft bun, I recommend getting the works, which includes ketchup, mustard, remoulade, crispy onions and raw onions. I’m not going to say it is the best hot dog I’ve ever had, but it is a good one. The crispy onions and remoulade are especially nice additions.

Food Halls

Pósthús Food Hall

Food halls are such a great option for groups, especially when everyone has different tastes and budgets. Thankfully, Reykjavik has two recent food hall openings in the city center. Pósthús offers an elegant aesthetic, especially the wine bar. It is adorned with a tree! With options like Korean and Italian, it stands as a testament to the Reykjavik's culinary diversity and social vibrancy. There is always a buzzy atmosphere here, in no small part thanks to its three different bars. Pósthús Mathöll beckons you to explore, indulge and enjoy!

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Hlemmur Mathöll

This locally beloved spot doesn’t get a lot of tourist activity, but it definitely should. You can find it at the end of Laugavegur street, the major shopping and pedestrian area that runs through central Reykjavik. The food hall isn’t huge, but with its small size, it packs a punch. From pizza and wine to gelato and Vietnamese, there is a little something for everyone. You will find ample seating throughout the market, so this is a nice place to hang out, especially if the weather is unpleasant.

Icelandic Dinners

Íslenski Barinn

This laidback gastropub is THE place to come if you want to sample some of the iconic Icelandic dishes, such as fermented shark, puffin, whale, and herring. You’ll want to make a reservation, because it is always packed. There is usually a wait.

I’ve tried the fermented shark a few times and…. it’s not for me. But it’s one of those things nearly everyone tries on their first trip to Iceland. Chase it down with a shot of Brennivín, Iceland's signature spirit. It is a type of aquavit, distilled from fermented grain or potato mash and flavored with caraway, known for its strong taste. Brennivin is often nicknamed "Black Death".

I feel obliged to point out that there is a lot of controversy surrounding puffin and whale hunting. Please do your research before ordering! You can read up on puffin hunting and whale hunting – it’s your choice whether to eat them or not, but it’s important to make it an informed one.

Fjallkonan

With an excellent happy hour menu, this is a place where you will accidentally find yourself spending hours. The staff is friendly and the vibe is fun. Plus the location is super central. The stewed lamb shoulder flatbread is one of the best things I ate my entire time in Iceland. Slow cooked to perfection, the meat is rich, fatty and incredibly satisfying. It is served with a carrot puree, pickled onions, and a bright horseradish chimicurri to cut through the richness. The arctic char pancake is another great choice. Lightly cured arctic char and roe rests on a chickpea pancake with a yuzu elderflower dressing drizzled over the top.

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ROK

Blending modern Nordic cuisine with a touch of Icelandic tradition, ROK offers a chic dining experience in a contemporary space. This stylish eatery is known for its shareable small plates, such as arctic char tartare, Icelandic lamb skewers, and wild mushroom risotto. You can also sample an elevated version of Plokkfiskur, one of Iceland’s most beloved fish dishes. A standout on Reykjavik's culinary map, ROK is the perfect spot for foodies looking to indulge in the flavors of Iceland. 

Messinn

If you want to sample flavors that make Icelanders nostalgic for home cooking, Messinn is unbeatable. The mismatched furniture and rustic decor immediately makes you feel like you are dining in someone’s home. Specializing in traditional fish dishes, the food comes out family style in a hot skillet. Plokkfiskur is their signature dish. Flakey pieces of cod are mashed together with potatoes, onion, garlic, and celery into something resembling a fish cake. It is served with a white wine béarnaise sauce. This is a rich dish that will immediately elevate your mood. I also love the pan seared arctic char with cherry tomatoes and almonds in a honey butter sauce.

Skál!

The first time I ate at ​Skál, it was still located inside the Hlemmur Mathöll food hall. Known for its innovative approach to traditional Icelandic cuisine, Skal quickly gained recognition, earning the Michelin Bib Gourmand award in 2019. In 2024, the restaurant relocated to a dedicated space. The menu is limited, focused on small plates whereby each dish is chosen intentionally. I thought the dishes here were beautiful, both in taste and presentation. I asked the staff for recommendations and ordered their top choices. 

The raw scallops were delicious, presented in the shell with a red currant granita, dill oil and horseradish cream. Even better still was the grilled baby gem lettuce. This little salad was my favorite thing I ate on my March 2025 trip. The lettuce had a beautiful char flavor, softened with a creamy vinegar dressing and sunchokes, pistachios & apple.

KOL

For a swanky date night in Reykjavik, Kol is a great choice. There are several set menus to choose from, each highlighting different inspirations and techniques from the kitchen. I would describe the food as Icelandic fusion. Local ingredients such as salmon and lamb, grace the menu but prepared with flavors from Thailand, India and all around the world. The langoustine soup here is to die for! The cocktails are excellent too.

Solon Islandus

Set in a historic building in downtown Reykjavik, Solon Islandus pairs Icelandic and international flavors in a trendy, upscale setting. The restaurant’s design is very aesthetic, especially the arched bar, massive round booths and mid-century tiled wall. A diverse menu features everything from fresh seafood dishes to juicy steaks, all prepared with high-quality, local ingredients. Popular with both locals and visitors, Solon Islandus is also known for its fantastic cocktails and lively atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for a fun night out. 

International Dinners

Sümac

Established in 2017 by chef Thráinn Freyr Vigfússon, Sümac specializes in a unique fusion of Middle Eastern culinary techniques and Icelandic ingredients. The restaurant is beautifully designed with an industrial ambiance featuring an open kitchen, exposed ductwork, and thoughtful tableside lighting. Because the kitchen is completely open, you can smell the smoke the minute you walk in. Nearly every dish on the menu features some kind of a grilled or smoked element. It is one of the restaurant signatures. Dishes are heavily seasoned with sumac, sesame seeds & za'atar. I really liked the red pepper dip and the grilled cabbage salad.

Fish Market

Dim lighting, swanky styling and intimate tables set the stage for an excellent seafood-forward meal at Fish Market restaurant. Every dish here is a knockout! The Japanese inspired menu features a range of options, from nigiri and sushi to more elaborate dishes like grilled salmon and seafood platters. Every dish is plated beautifully with creative flavor combinations and sauces. The restaurant also has a well-stocked bar with a full list of cool cocktails to accompany your dishes.

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Tapas Barinn

The restaurant pitches itself as a Spanish eatery that crafts Icelandic tapas with an Iberian flair. Fully decked out in Spanish decor, music and art, it does have a feeling of a small tapas or pintxos restaurant in Madrid or Pamplona. The menu, however, is stocked with Icelandic favorites like arctic char, lamb and root vegetables. With a variety of tasting menu options, I did the ‘Journey into the Unknown’ menu. Offering 8 courses, I can guarantee you will leave absolutely stuffed but deeply satisfied. Wash everything down with a pitcher of one of their housemade Sangrias.

Monkeys

I am obsessed with the aesthetic and general vibes of this restaurant. The decor is a quirky mix of Victorian accents, brightly colored prints, and jungle decor. Focused on small plates, the kitchen at Monkeys follows Nikkei cooking, which is a unique fusion of Japanese and Peruvian food. It combines the best of each cuisine, such as the respect for the raw ingredients and strong seasoning & flavors. I especially loved the mushroom soup and salmon tiradito.

Dessert 

Valdis Ice Cream

Valdis is Reykjavik’s go-to destination for ice cream lovers, renowned for its ever-changing array of inventive and delicious flavors. From traditional vanilla and chocolate to Icelandic-inspired creations like skyr (a creamy yogurt-like delicacy) and licorice, every scoop is handcrafted with premium ingredients. I especially like the rye bread flavor here. The brightly painted (and Instagrammable!) exterior is unmissable.

Gaeta Gelato

Established in 2020 by Italian immigrants, Gaeta brings authentic Italian gelato to Reykjavík. Utilizing fresh, locally sourced Icelandic ingredients, they craft a variety of flavors, including traditional options like Stracciatella and pistachio as well as more innovative creations such as yuzu caramel and Blueberry Skyr gelato. Their commitment to quality has quickly garnered a loyal customer base, and there are multiple locations around Reykjavik. 

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Omnom Chocolate & Ice Cream Shop

Located within their chocolate factory in Reykjavík's Grandi Harbor area, Om Nom caters to people with a sweet tooth. Their bean-to-bar chocolates are award-winning, crafted from organic cacao beans and Icelandic milk. What has really brought viral fame to Omnom though is their elaborate animal-themed ice cream sundae concoctions. All toppings, soft-serve ice creams, and sauces are made in-house by their pastry chefs. I found this place a bit Instagrammy and too focused on aesthetics, but I still enjoyed it. I probably wouldn’t make the trek out to the harbor location just for the sundaes, but if you’re in the Grandi area already, its a fun place to stop.

This post was originally published in November 2022 and updated in April 2025 after return trips to Reykjavik.

Have thoughts or questions about this Reykjavik food guide? Tell me in the comments!

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