If you are coming to visit the island, the odds of you spending some time in the capital city are good. And you cannot possibly visit the capital without sampling the local cuisine at some of the best restaurants in Reykjavík.
So, are you keen to explore Iceland's capital city whilst indulging in food that will make your taste buds dance with delight? We’ve compiled a list of the top Reykjavík restaurants you need to try in 2023!
We also tell you exactly where they’re located and what you can expect price-wise (from $ - extremely affordable, $$ - affordable, to $$$ - expensive). So, without further ado, let’s dive in!
Apotek Restaurant
Location: Austurstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík
Price Range: $$-$$$
Apotek Restaurant offers diners a smart-casual dining experience. They serve delicious dishes ranging from brunch and afternoon tea to dinner. Dishes consist of both local as well as more traditional food.
If you're looking to grab a quick drink in a sleek setting, the bar is an excellent option. The restaurant is also conveniently located in Reykjavík’s city center.
Fiskfelagid aka the Fish Company
Location: Vesturgata 2a, Grofartorg, 101 Reykjavík
Price Range: $$-$$$
As the name suggests, this restaurant’s specialty is fish, though you’ll find other traditional dishes too. Fiskfelagid offers not only a great culinary experience but also beautifully plated dishes. It's only open a few days a week with limited hours, so booking in advance is recommended.
Reykjavík Kitchen
Location: Raudararstigur 8, 105 Reykjavík
Price Range: $$-$$$
This family-owned restaurant offers Icelandic food in a warm, welcoming environment. Reykjavík Kitchen focuses on local fish and meat dishes and offers an à la carte or three-course menu.
Old Iceland Restaurant
Location: Laugavegur 72, 101 Reykjavík
Price Range: $$-$$$
Old Iceland Restaurant is among Reykjavík’s top spots for local cuisine. With a small, intimate setting, the dishes are exquisite.
Matarkjallarinn aka the Foodcellar
Location: Adalstraeti 2, 101 Reykjavík
Price Range: $$-$$$
Matarkjallarinn is located in a historic building and serves delicious dishes with local ingredients, along with signature cocktails. They cater to vegetarians, with a few vegetarian options available.
Mama Reykjavík
Location: Laugavegur 2, 101 Reykjavík
Price Range: $-$$
Mama Reykjavík offers amazing Indian cuisine, fully vegan and one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Reykjavík.
Primo Ristorante
Location: Thingholtsstraeti 1, 101 Reykjavík
Price Range: $$-$$$
If you love authentic Italian food, Primo Ristorante delivers some of the best pizza in Reykjavík. Enjoy a slice of pizza or a forkful of pasta with a glass of wine.
Icelandic Street Food
Location: Lækjargata 8, 101 Reykjavík
Price Range: $-$$
Icelandic Street Food specializes in homestyle local cuisine with recipes from the owner’s grandmother’s cookbook.
Sæta Svinid aka the Sweet Pig
Location: Hafnarstræti 1-3, 101 Reykjavík
Price Range: $$-$$$
Sæta Svinid offers a casual, fun dining experience with a selection of local craft beers and a variety of local dishes.
Snaps Bistro
Location: Porgata 1, 101 Reykjavík
Price Range: $$-$$$
For French cuisine in Iceland, Snaps Bistro is the place. Their cocktails are also highly recommended. Make sure to book a table in advance.
Grandi Food Hall aka the Food Hall by the Harbor
Location: Grandagardur 16, 101 Reykjavík
Price Range: $-$$
Grandi Food Hall is a collection of street food options, from Korean and Indonesian to Icelandic, making it one of the best affordable spots in Reykjavík.
Perlan Restaurant & Café
Location: Varmahlid 1, 105 Reykjavík
Price Range: $$-$$$
Perlan Restaurant & Café is a revolving restaurant with great views and dishes like Fish & Chips, Pizza, and Chicken Salad.
Kol Restaurant
Location: Skolavördustigur 40, 101 Reykjavík
Price Range: $$$
Kol Restaurant offers a fine dining experience with local cuisine, a tasting menu, and wine pairings.
Islenski Barinn aka the Icelandic Bar
Location: Ingolfsstræti 1a, 101 Reykjavík
Price Range: $-$$
Islenski Barinn is a great choice for affordable, authentic Icelandic dishes, local beers, and Icelandic music.
Time to Wine and Dine!
Now that you know where to eat in Reykjavík, start working your way through our list of the best restaurants. Be sure to book a table in advance as these popular spots fill up quickly, especially during the summer season.
