Most travelers arrive in Reykjavik with one thing on their mind: the natural wonders. But after spending considerable time exploring the city's dining landscape—from cozy neighborhood bistros tucked down quiet side streets to innovative fine dining concepts that showcase Iceland's pristine ingredients—we've discovered something many visitors overlook entirely. Reykjavik's restaurant scene isn't just good; it's genuinely world-class, and frankly, it rivals the natural attractions as a reason to visit.
When we first started researching Icelandic restaurants a few years back, we expected hearty comfort food and expensive tourist traps. What we found instead was a thriving culinary community where chefs blend Nordic tradition with bold international influences, where locally-sourced ingredients tell a story of Iceland's unique terroir, and where you can have an extraordinary meal regardless of your budget or how adventurous your palate is. From Michelin-starred tasting menus to casual food halls brimming with global cuisines, street-level hot dog stands with cult followings, and traditional taverns serving recipes that have been passed down for generations, Reykjavik offers a dining experience that feels both authentically Icelandic and surprisingly cosmopolitan.
Ahead, we're sharing our curated recommendations for the best restaurants in Reykjavik across every category—whether you're hunting for the perfect breakfast before a glacier adventure, seeking an intimate dinner with views over the harbor, or simply craving a meal that captures the essence of what makes Iceland's capital a food destination worth planning around.
Dill Restaurant
What is it? Iceland’s pioneering New Nordic fine-dining address, showcasing hyper-seasonal Icelandic ingredients through a poetic tasting menu in an intimate, design-forward room.
Why we love it: The kitchen’s clarity and restraint let local products sing, from wild herbs and sea greens to Arctic char and sustainably raised lamb, with a wine and non-alcoholic pairing program that’s as thoughtful as the cuisine.
Pro tip: Book as far ahead as you can and allow at least three hours; if the weather is calm, arrive a little early to enjoy a stroll along Laugavegur before your seating.
Address: Laugavegur 59, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 19,000–29,000 ISK per person for the tasting menu; pairings extra.
Opening hours: Tue–Sat 18:00–24:00; closed Sun–Mon.
ÓX
What is it? A tiny, chef’s-counter speakeasy with a single seating format where an intimate team cooks a seasonal tasting in front of you for just a handful of guests.
Why we love it: The narrative-driven menu, warm hospitality, and direct interaction with the chefs make it one of the most personal culinary experiences in Reykjavík.
Pro tip: Expect limited seats and strict start times; if you can, choose the later seating to linger without feeling rushed.
Address: Laugavegur 28, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 29,000–39,000 ISK per person; beverage pairings are significantly extra.
Opening hours: Wed–Sat dinner only with fixed seatings; limited Sun–Tue pop-ups.
Fiskmarkaðurinn (Fish Market)
What is it? A contemporary fine-dining seafood house blending Icelandic product with Japanese techniques, known for pristine crudi, robata-grilled fish, and signature miso cod.
Why we love it: The raw bar and wood-fire grill deliver depth and smokiness without masking delicacy, and the cocktail program is one of the city’s best.
Pro tip: If you’re hungry, the tasting menu is strong value; otherwise pair two starters with a grilled main to sample the kitchen’s range.
Address: Aðalstræti 12, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 9,000–18,000 ISK per person à la carte; more for tasting with pairings.
Opening hours: Daily dinner from 17:00; closes 22:00–22:30 depending on night.
Grillmarkaðurinn (Grill Market)
What is it? Reykjavík’s destination for lava-grilled meats and seafood sourced from local farmers and fishers, served in a dramatic room of wood, basalt, and fire.
Why we love it: High-heat grilling coaxes char and tenderness from Icelandic lamb, beef, and seafood, while the menu retains room for playful signatures and seasonal specials.
Pro tip: Reserve early and ask for a booth; the sharing set menus are ideal for groups who want to taste widely.
Address: Lækjargata 2a, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 8,000–16,000 ISK per person; more with steaks or tasting menus.
Opening hours: Daily 17:30–22:00/22:30; slightly shorter hours Sun–Mon.
Fiskfélagið (Fish Company)
What is it? A beloved fine-casual institution inside one of Reykjavík’s oldest houses, marrying Icelandic seafood with global spice routes and polished presentation.
Why we love it: From lobster tempura rolls to charcoal-grilled monkfish, the kitchen balances comfort and creativity, and the cozy cellar setting feels quintessentially Reykjavík.
Pro tip: Consider the “Around the World” tasting if your group enjoys variety; at lunch, the set menus are excellent value.
Address: Vesturgata 2a, Grófartorg, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 9,000–16,000 ISK per person; lunch sets from lower.
Opening hours: Lunch most days 11:30–14:30; dinner daily 17:00–22:30/23:00.
Matarkjallarinn (Food Cellar)
What is it? A stylish cellar brasserie with piano bar vibes, serving deft Icelandic plates alongside steaks, seafood, and a strong craft cocktail list.
Why we love it: The setting is atmospheric yet relaxed, the service polished, and the menu broad enough to please mixed groups without sacrificing finesse.
Pro tip: Time your reservation with live piano sets for the full ambiance, and don’t skip the house cocktails.
Address: Aðalstræti 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 8,000–14,000 ISK per person.
Opening hours: Lunch on select days; dinner nightly 17:00–22:00/22:30.
Apotek Restaurant
What is it? A chic, all-day European brasserie in a former apothecary, known for smart Icelandic produce, bistro classics, and a lively bar program.
Why we love it: Versatility is the draw—come for brunch, a two- or three-course lunch, or a celebratory dinner—with consistently sharp execution.
Pro tip: The fixed-price lunch is one of downtown’s best values; the pastry team makes desserts worth saving room for.
Address: Austurstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 7,000–12,000 ISK per person; lunch deals lower.
Opening hours: Daily 11:30–22:00/23:00; brunch on weekends.
Matur og Drykkur
What is it? A love letter to traditional Icelandic cooking, reimagined through modern technique, with a focus on local fish, lamb, and time-honored preservation methods.
Why we love it: Signature plates like cod’s head with browned butter and celeriac, or decadent fish soup, prove heritage dishes can be both comforting and refined.
Pro tip: If available, take the tasting path to see the full scope of old-and-new; tell the team if you prefer to avoid more adventurous items.
Address: Grandagarður 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 6,000–10,000 ISK à la carte; 11,000–19,000 ISK for tastings.
Opening hours: Tue–Sat 17:30–22:30; closed Sun–Mon.
Messinn
What is it? A seafood specialist famed for family-style “fish pans” of sizzling Arctic char, cod, wolffish, and plokkfiskur served with buttered potatoes and salad.
Why we love it: Straightforward, generous, and deeply satisfying, it’s the spot to taste fresh Icelandic fish without pretense.
Pro tip: Portions are large; share a pan and start with the beloved cognac lobster soup.
Address: Lækjargata 6, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 4,500–7,500 ISK per person; sharing lowers cost.
Opening hours: Daily 11:30–22:00; weekend openings from 12:00.
Sjávargrillið (Seafood Grill)
What is it? An upscale yet cozy seafood restaurant marrying local catch with thoughtful sauces, produce, and a strong wine list.
Why we love it: Service is attentive, the plates elegant, and the cooking consistent, making it a reliable choice for a relaxed seafood dinner.
Pro tip: Ask for the fish of the day and a recommendation from the cellar for spot-on pairings.
Address: Skólavörðustígur 14, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 7,000–12,000 ISK per person.
Opening hours: Lunch on select weekdays; dinner nightly 17:00–22:00.
Höfnin Restaurant
What is it? A harborfront institution for refined Icelandic comfort food with maritime views, featuring lamb, fish, and classic desserts.
Why we love it: The location on the old harbor is postcard-perfect, and the kitchen treats staples like fish stew and lamb with care and polish.
Pro tip: Time a sunset seating to watch the harbor lights come up over a glass of wine.
Address: Geirsgata 7, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 6,000–11,000 ISK per person.
Opening hours: Daily lunch 11:30–14:00; dinner 17:30–21:00/22:00.
Sægreifinn (Seabaron)
What is it? A laid-back quayside canteen famed for its creamy langoustine (lobster) soup and choose-your-own skewers of ultra-fresh fish.
Why we love it: It’s fast, friendly, and delicious, with a salty-sea-dog charm and harbor atmosphere you can’t fake.
Pro tip: Order the lobster soup first, then share two or three different fish skewers to compare textures.
Address: Geirsgata 4a, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 3,500–7,000 ISK per person depending on skewers.
Opening hours: Daily 11:30–17:00 and 18:00–22:00.
Café Loki
What is it? A homey café opposite Hallgrímskirkja serving traditional Icelandic plates, rye bread bakes, trout, lamb, and the infamous fermented shark for the curious.
Why we love it: It’s an easy, affordable way to sample heritage flavors, with warm service and a location that’s perfect for sightseeing days.
Pro tip: Try the rye bread ice cream and, if you dare, hákarl with a shot of Brennivín.
Address: Lokastígur 28, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 3,000–6,000 ISK per person.
Opening hours: Daily 08:00–22:00.
Íslenski Barinn (The Icelandic Bar)
What is it? A lively gastropub championing Icelandic beers and a menu of local comfort fare, from lamb and fish to adventurous bites like reindeer and whale.
Why we love it: It’s central, casual, and convivial, ideal for a relaxed meal that still feels distinctly Icelandic.
Pro tip: Come for happy hour and stay for dinner; live music nights add to the buzz.
Address: Ingólfsstræti 1a, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 4,000–8,000 ISK per person.
Opening hours: Daily 11:30–01:00 or later on weekends.
Reykjavík Kitchen
What is it? A warm, modern dining room serving seasonal Icelandic dishes with a contemporary touch, plus a friendly wine and cocktail list.
Why we love it: The menu balances approachable classics and lighter plates, making it a dependable choice for couples or small groups.
Pro tip: Book dinner ahead in peak season; lunch menus can be a value play.
Address: Rauðarárstígur 8, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 5,000–10,000 ISK per person.
Opening hours: Daily lunch 11:30–15:00 on select days; dinner 17:00–22:00.
MAR Seafood Reykjavík
What is it? A casual seafood kitchen focused on quality local catch prepared simply and well, from halibut to wolffish.
Why we love it: Honest cooking, generous portions, and fair pricing make it a smart pick for a relaxed seafood lunch or dinner.
Pro tip: Ask about halibut or wolffish if available; both are local favorites when in season.
Address: Frakkastígur 8b, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 5,000–10,000 ISK per person.
Opening hours: Daily 11:30–21:00; Fri–Sat until 22:00; Sun dinner only.
Kol Restaurant
What is it? A fashionable grill-and-cocktail spot near Hallgrímskirkja, serving steaks, lamb, fish, and polished small plates.
Why we love it: The bar is excellent, the room buzzy, and the kitchen nails crowd-pleasing mains and seasonal sides.
Pro tip: Early dinner seatings are calmer if you prefer conversation over a scene; weekend brunch can be lively.
Address: Skólavörðustígur 40, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 7,000–12,000 ISK per person.
Opening hours: Daily dinner; weekend lunch/brunch.
Sümac Grill + Drinks
What is it? A Levant-inspired grill blending Icelandic produce with Middle Eastern spice profiles, set in a dim, urban-chic space.
Why we love it: Smoky vegetables, charred meats, and bright dips deliver a fresh flavor palette that contrasts beautifully with Nordic classics.
Pro tip: Share broadly—mezze and grilled mains are designed for the table—and ask about off-menu seasonal vegetables.
Address: Laugavegur 28, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 6,000–11,000 ISK per person.
Opening hours: Tue–Sat 17:00–22:30; closed Sun–Mon.
ROK Restaurant
What is it? A stylish small-plates restaurant opposite Hallgrímskirkja offering Icelandic produce with global twists and a strong wine-by-the-glass list.
Why we love it: The format encourages sharing and exploration, and the terrace is charming in summer.
Pro tip: Book a window or terrace table for church views; arrive early for the best selection of specials.
Address: Frakkastígur 26a, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 5,000–10,000 ISK per person.
Opening hours: Daily 11:30–22:30.
Snaps Bistro
What is it? A beloved neighborhood bistro for French-leaning comfort food—think moules frites, steak, and fish—served in a greenhouse-like dining room.
Why we love it: It’s the sort of place locals return to weekly, with fair prices, good wines, and friendly service.
Pro tip: Walk-ins are possible at off-hours, but prime-time bookings are essential.
Address: Þórsgata 1, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 6,000–11,000 ISK per person.
Opening hours: Daily 11:30–23:00.
Kopar Restaurant
What is it? A harborside brasserie specializing in seafood and seasonal Icelandic produce, with comfortable classics and a strong dessert program.
Why we love it: The waterfront setting and balanced menu make it great for groups and families who want something for everyone.
Pro tip: Consider the tasting of starters followed by a fish main to cover more of the menu.
Address: Geirsgata 3, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 7,000–12,000 ISK per person.
Opening hours: Daily lunch and dinner; hours vary by season.
Icelandic Street Food
What is it? A cheerful canteen for budget-friendly bowls of lamb soup, fisherman’s stew, and lobster soup with free refills.
Why we love it: It’s quick, authentic, and kind on the wallet by Reykjavík standards.
Pro tip: Get your soup in a bread bowl and ask about the free beer voucher for the sister bar next door.
Address: Lækjargata 8, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 2,000–3,500 ISK per person.
Opening hours: Daily 11:00–22:00.
101 Reykjavík Street Food
What is it? A straightforward spot near Rainbow Street serving hearty Icelandic soups, fish and chips, and fisherman’s favorite.
Why we love it: Portions are generous, the vibe is friendly, and prices are fair for downtown.
Pro tip: The lobster soup and meat soup are local favorites; free refills make it a smart lunch.
Address: Skólavörðustígur 8, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 2,000–3,500 ISK per person.
Opening hours: Daily 11:00–22:00.
Kaffivagninn
What is it? Reykjavík’s oldest restaurant, a seaside diner in the Grandi district serving classic Icelandic breakfasts, fish plates, and daily specials.
Why we love it: Honest cooking, harbor views, and a sense of history make it a soothing stop any time of day.
Pro tip: Come early for a fisherman’s breakfast before exploring the Grandi museums and galleries.
Address: Grandagarður 10, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 3,000–6,500 ISK per person.
Opening hours: Typically 07:30–21:00; shorter hours on Sundays.
Sæta Svínið Gastropub
What is it? A lively downtown gastropub doing upgraded pub classics, local fish, and Icelandic beers in a roomy, central space.
Why we love it: It’s easygoing, good for groups, and a reliable late lunch or casual dinner option near many sights.
Pro tip: The Icelandic tasting plate is a playful way to share; reserve for peak weekend hours.
Address: Hafnarstræti 1–3, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.
Expect to pay: 5,000–10,000 ISK per person.
Opening hours: Daily from late morning through late evening; hours extend on weekends.
