Iceland Restaurant Guide

On the hunt for the best restaurants in Iceland? Look no further. Here we’ve hand-picked some of our favorite places to wine and dine in Reykjavík and beyond.

Best fine dining restaurants in Reykjavík

Apótek
Austurstræti 16
A former pharmacy designed by a famous Icelandic architect is home to this trendy cocktail bar-cum-restaurant. Serves Icelandic staples such as lamb and salmon with a contemporary European influence.
Vegan/vegetarian options: Yes

Fiskfélagið
Vesturgata 2a
In the heart of the oldest part of Reykjavík, Fiskfélagið offers a fantastic selection of fish dishes in an atmospheric, stone-walled dining room. Multi-course tasting menus available.
Vegan/vegetarian options: Yes

Fiskmarkaðurinn
Aðalstræti 12
Its name means ‘Fish Market’ and this comes through strongly in this restaurant’s sushi-with-an-Icelandic-twist menu. Also offers a good selection of grilled dishes if raw fish isn’t your thing.
Vegan/vegetarian options: Yes

Grillmarkarðurinn
Lækjargata 2a
This fixture of the Reykjavík dining scene has built its reputation on a blend of Icelandic culinary tradition and modern techniques. Specializes in Icelandic steak and lamb. Highly atmospheric surroundings with décor inspired by Iceland’s nature.
Vegan/vegetarian options: Yes

Best casual restaurants in Reykjavík

Hressingarskálinn
Austurstræti 12
Affectionately known as Hressó, this place traces its roots back to the oldest café in Reykjavík. Like arriving at grandma’s house, Hressó offers traditional Icelandic fare in a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. Loved by locals and visitors alike. Also a great spot for coffee and cake.
Vegan/vegetarian options: Yes

Snaps
Þórsgata 1
Inspired by European bistros, Snaps is a great spot for a lazy brunch or a casual dinner. Brunch is served late into the afternoon on weekends. Extensive cocktail menu.
Vegan/vegetarian options: Yes

Sægreifinn
Geirsgata 4a
Originally a favorite of local fishermen, Sægreifinn or ‘Sea Baron’ offers fresh seafood cooked simply. Its signature dish is the langoustine soup with unlimited bread, but they also serve up seafood skewers with the catch of the day.
Vegan/vegetarian options: No

Top food halls in Iceland

Reykjavík

Hlemmur Mathöll
Laugavegur 107, Reykjavík
The one that kicked off the food hall trend in Iceland. In a former bus station at the end of the main street, there’s always a cool buzz about the place and an eclectic mix of fast food and fancier options.
Vegan/vegetarian options: Yes

Grandi Mathöll
Grandagarður 16, Reykjavík
This food hall is bang in the middle of the trendy fishpacking district of Grandi. Tasty bites and amazing views over the old harbor of Reykjavík and the mountains beyond.
Vegan/vegetarian options: Yes

Borg29
Borgartún 29, Reykjavík
In the heart of the capital’s financial district, this food hall serves up fresh, modern cuisine with influences from all over the world.
Vegan/vegetarian options: Yes

South Iceland

Mjólkurbúið
Eyravegur 1, Selfoss
Located in a rebuilt dairy, Mjólkurbúið is the best place to grab a bite in the town of Selfoss. Don’t forget to check out Skyrland, an interactive exhibit about Iceland’s most famous dairy export, in the basement.
Vegan/vegetarian options: Yes

Gróðurhúsið
Austurmörk, Hveragerði
Also known as ‘the Greenhouse’, this food hall sits alongside trendy gift shops and a brand-new hotel. Here the focus is on cuisine from around the world made with fresh Icelandic ingredients.
Vegan/vegetarian options: Yes