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The Nordic Nomad

Reykjavík, Iceland

Reykjavík’s 15 best restaurants (and must-try dishes)

The Nordics • Eat & drink • Reykjavík’s 15 best restaurants (and must-try dishes)

The ultimate guide to Reykjavík’s top restaurants

Looking for the best eats in Reykjavik? Look no further – we’ve done the hard work for you (i.e. the eating) and have compiled a list of the top restaurants in the city. Our curated list spans a spectrum: from innovative takes on Icelandic cuisine to traditional Nordic delights, and from luxurious fine dining to casual, laid-back eateries. With each recommendation, we’ve highlighted must-try dishes that truly capture the essence of Reykjavik’s diverse food scene. So, ready your taste buds for a rich and varied journey through the city’s best eateries. Enjoy your meal!

Dill

Stepping into Dill feels like entering an extension of Iceland’s wild landscapes. The minimalist design, with natural wood accents and soft lighting, mirrors the rugged yet serene beauty outside. Chef Gunnar Karl Gíslason takes you on a culinary journey with dishes like wolf fish and malted barley, where each bite reveals the island’s seasonal bounty. The open kitchen, where the chef’s meticulous craft unfolds, adds a personal touch to this intimate experience. Don’t miss the herb-infused butter with fresh rye bread – a simple yet profound taste of Iceland.

Dill
Laugavegur 59
Reykjavík
Iceland

Photography courtesy of Dill

Óx

Hidden within Sumac, Óx offers an exclusive, intimate experience that feels like dining in a chef’s private kitchen. The decor is sleek, with subtle Icelandic influences, allowing the focus to remain on the artfully prepared dishes. Chef Thrainn Freyr Vigfússon’s tasting menu is a sensory journey through Iceland, featuring standouts like reindeer tartare and smoked Arctic char. The setting – just ten seats around a counter – ensures a personal interaction with the chef, making your meal feel like a true experience.

Óx
Laugavegur 55
Reykjavík
Iceland

Photography courtesy of Óx

Skál!

Relocated to a fresh downtown spot in 2024, Skál! continues to bring its signature buzz to Reykjavík’s vibrant food scene. The atmosphere is casual yet stylish, with an inviting space perfect for sharing bold, modern Icelandic dishes. The open kitchen remains a lively focal point, where chefs put a refined twist on familiar favourites like lamb tartare with wild herbs – a must-try that captures the essence of Icelandic cuisine. The menu, while familiar, steps up its game, and pairing a dish with a cocktail or craft beer completes the full Skál! experience in this contemporary setting.

Skál!
Njálsgata 1
Reykjavík
Iceland

Photography courtesy of Skál!

Matur og Drykkur

Situated by Reykjavik’s old harbour, Matur og Drykkur exudes rustic charm, with its wooden beams and nautical decor paying homage to Iceland’s maritime heritage. The menu breathes new life into traditional recipes, with dishes like cod’s head with dulse and bearnaise offering a nostalgic yet refined taste of the past. The cosy, welcoming atmosphere invites you to linger, making it the perfect spot to immerse yourself in Iceland’s culinary traditions.

Matur och Drykkur
Laugavegur 107
Reykjavík
Iceland

Photography courtesy of Matur och Drykkur

Grillmarkaðurinn

Grillmarkaðurinn is where Icelandic nature meets modern dining. The interior, featuring basalt stone and moss, brings the outdoors in, creating a warm, earthy ambiance. The open kitchen, with its roaring flames, sets the stage for a menu that celebrates local meats and seafood. Grilled puffin and reindeer are standouts, each dish expertly prepared to highlight the primal flavours of the land. The entire experience is a tribute to Iceland’s rugged beauty, both in design and taste.

Grillmarkaðurinn
Lækjargata 2a
Reykjavík
Iceland

Photography courtesy of Grillmarkaðurinn

Brút

Brút’s sleek, modern interior with its clean lines and muted tones sets a sophisticated stage for its seafood-centric menu. Located in the heart of Reykjavik, the restaurant offers more than just a meal – it’s a refined experience. Fresh Icelandic langoustine and pan-fried cod are presented with a delicate touch, allowing the natural flavours to shine. Large windows provide a glimpse of the bustling city outside, while the interior remains a tranquil escape for those who appreciate the art of seafood.

Brút
Pósthússtræti 2
Reykjavík
Iceland

Photography courtesy of Brút

Fiskfélagið

Located in a historic building near the harbour, Fiskfélagið offers a fusion of Icelandic seafood and global flavours. The dimly lit, maritime-themed interior, with its cosy nooks and wooden accents, invites diners to relax and savour each bite. Dishes like Arctic char, presented sushi-style, and tandoori monkfish surprise and delight with their inventive combinations. The warm, inviting atmosphere, coupled with the innovative menu, makes Fiskfélagið a standout for those seeking a unique culinary adventure.

Fiskfélagið
Vesturgata 2a, Grófartorg
Reykjavík
Iceland

Photography courtesy of Fiskfélagið

Kol

Just steps from Hallgrímskirkja, Kol offers a chic yet comfortable setting where modern European cuisine meets Icelandic ingredients. The dark wood and leather accents create an intimate space, perfect for enjoying dishes like beef tenderloin with truffle mashed potatoes. The miso-glazed cod is another highlight, its rich flavours balanced perfectly by the fresh Icelandic fish. An extensive cocktail menu adds a lively touch, making Kol an ideal spot for both dining and socialising.

Kol
Skólavörðustígur 40
Reykjavík
Iceland

Photography courtesy of Kol

Sumac Grill + Drinks

Sumac Grill + Drinks transports you to the vibrant streets of the Middle East and North Africa, right in the heart of Reykjavik. The warm, earthy decor, inspired by the region’s rich colours, creates an inviting atmosphere. Dishes like harissa-spiced lamb and roasted cauliflower with tahini bring bold, exotic flavours to the table. The cocktails, infused with spices and ingredients from the region, complement the food perfectly, making Sumac a sensory journey not to be missed.

Sumac Grill + Drinks
Laugavegur 28
Reykjavík
Iceland

Photography courtesy of Sumac Grill + Drinks

Mat Bar

Tucked away in Reykjavik’s city centre, Mat Bar is a small, unassuming bistro that delivers big on flavour. The cosy interior, with its simple, clean lines, provides a welcoming space to enjoy seasonal dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Beef tartare with smoked egg yolk and salt-baked celeriac are among the highlights, offering a fresh, modern take on Icelandic cuisine. The carefully curated wine list, featuring natural and biodynamic selections, enhances the experience, making Mat Bar a hidden gem for food lovers.

Mat Bar
Hverfisgata 26
Reykjavík
Iceland

Photography courtesy of Mat Bar

Tides

Located within the luxurious Reykjavik Edition hotel, Tides offers a dining experience as stunning as its views of the harbour. The sleek, contemporary design, with floor-to-ceiling windows, creates a light-filled space that feels both upscale and welcoming. Chef Gunnar Karl Gíslason presents modern Nordic cuisine with dishes like slow-cooked Arctic char and lamb with wild garlic, each plate a testament to his culinary prowess. Tides is perfect for those seeking an elegant, yet grounded, dining experience in Reykjavik.

Tides
Austurbakki 2
Reykjavík
Iceland

Photography courtesy of Tides

Kopar

Overlooking the harbour, Kopar offers a dining experience with a view. The rustic, nautical-themed interior, complete with wooden beams and maritime touches, echoes the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, local seafood. Lobster risotto and salted cod with chorizo are standout dishes, each bite capturing the essence of Iceland’s coastal cuisine. The warm, inviting atmosphere, combined with the stunning harbour views, makes Kopar a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

Kopar
Geirsgata 3
Reykjavík
Iceland

Photography courtesy of Kopar

Forréttabarinn

Forréttabarinn, located near the old harbour, specialises in creative small plates that are perfect for sharing. The exposed brick and wooden furnishings give the space a cosy, rustic feel, making it a great spot to relax with friends. Icelandic langoustine soup and slow-cooked pork belly are must-try dishes, each offering a unique twist on traditional Icelandic flavours. The casual, laid-back atmosphere and inventive menu make Forréttabarinn a go-to if a relaxed dining experience is what you are looking for.

Forréttabarinn
Nýlendugata 14
Reykjavík
Iceland

Photography courtesy of Forréttabarinn

Le Kock

Le Kock is a trendy, urban eatery that has become a favourite for its gourmet burgers and craft beers. The decor is quirky and modern, with street art and industrial touches adding to the vibrant, youthful vibe. The Le Kock burger, with its perfectly cooked patty and special sauce, is a crowd-pleaser, while the El Diablo burger packs a spicy punch with jalapenos. Le Kock’s fun, casual atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a quick but satisfying meal in Reykjavik.

Le Kock
Tryggvagata 14
Reykjavík
Iceland

Photography courtesy of Le Kock

Bakabaka

Bakabaka is a cosy bakery and café in the heart of Reykjavik, offering a warm, inviting space to enjoy freshly baked goods. The simple, rustic decor, with wooden tables and soft lighting, creates a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for a morning coffee or a light lunch. Sourdough bread and cinnamon rolls are among the highlights, each baked to perfection with a focus on quality ingredients. Bakabaka’s friendly vibe and delicious offerings make it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors.