Best Restaurants in Reykjavik: The Current List

Reykjavik's culinary scene has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past two decades, evolving from a modest selection of traditional fish-and-lamb establishments to one of Europe's most dynamic and innovative dining destinations. Today's Reykjavik offers everything from Michelin-starred tasting menus showcasing New Nordic cuisine to bustling casual spots serving exceptional street food, all whilst maintaining deep connections to Iceland's distinctive culinary heritage.

Fine Dining Excellence

Dill Restaurant

Located at Hverfisgata 12, Dill stands as Iceland's first and only Michelin-starred restaurant, a recognition it has maintained since 2017. Chef Gunnar Karl Gíslason champions the New Nordic movement with seasonal tasting menus that showcase Iceland's pristine ingredients. The seven-course evening menu costs 22,800 ISK (approximately €155), with wine pairings adding another 13,500 ISK. Reservations open exactly 30 days in advance and typically sell out within hours.

Grillmarkaðurinn (The Grill Market)

Situated at Lækjargata 2a, Grillmarkaðurinn occupies a beautifully restored 1930s building and specialises in flame-grilled Icelandic ingredients. Their signature "Taste of Iceland" menu features reindeer, puffin, and langoustine, with main courses ranging from 4,200-8,900 ISK. The restaurant's dramatic interior, featuring volcanic rock and driftwood, creates an atmosphere as memorable as the food.

Fishmarket

At Aðalstræti 12, Fishmarket combines Icelandic seafood with Asian fusion techniques. Their sushi selection features local Arctic char and sea trout alongside imported selections, whilst the robata grill produces exceptional lamb and seafood dishes. The chef's tasting menu costs 14,900 ISK, with individual mains ranging from 3,800-7,200 ISK.

Contemporary Icelandic Cuisine

Matur og Drykkur

Located at Grandagarður 2 in the harbourfront Grandi district, this restaurant occupies a former salt fish factory and focuses on reimagining traditional Icelandic recipes. Chef Gísli Matthías Auðunsson transforms heritage dishes like fermented shark into approachable modern plates. The tasting menu costs 12,900 ISK, whilst à la carte mains range from 3,200-5,800 ISK.

Snaps Bistro

This intimate French-inspired bistro at Þórsgata 1 has been a Reykjavik institution since 1999. The menu changes seasonally but consistently features excellent preparations of Icelandic lamb, fresh fish, and game birds. Main courses range from 3,900-6,200 ISK, and the wine list offers excellent selections from small European producers. Book well ahead, as the 30-seat dining room fills quickly.

Kopar Restaurant

Perched at Geirsgata 3 overlooking Reykjavik's old harbour, Kopar specialises in modern interpretations of Nordic seafood. Their location in a restored 1950s warehouse provides stunning views of Mount Esja across Faxaflói Bay. The restaurant sources directly from day boats, ensuring exceptional freshness. Tasting menus cost 13,900 ISK, with seafood-focused mains ranging from 4,200-6,800 ISK.

Casual Dining Champions

Messinn

With locations at Lækjargata 6b and Grandagarður 8, Messinn serves some of Reykjavik's finest fish dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. Their signature pan-fried fish served directly from cast-iron skillets costs 2,890-3,490 ISK and easily feeds two people. The Arctic char with honey-glazed vegetables represents exceptional value for money.

Sjávargrillið (Seafood Grill)

Located at Skólavörðustígur 14, this restaurant focuses exclusively on Icelandic seafood prepared simply but expertly. Their langoustine soup (2,200 ISK) is considered among the city's finest, whilst their grilled monkfish with Icelandic herbs (4,200 ISK) showcases the kitchen's technical skill.

Forréttabarinn

This small plates restaurant at Laugavegur 24b offers an extensive selection of Icelandic and international dishes perfect for sharing. Most plates cost 1,200-2,800 ISK, making it possible to sample widely without breaking budgets. Their weekend brunch (Saturday-Sunday, 11:00-16:00) is particularly popular with locals.

International Flavours

Ox Restaurant

At Laugavegur 54, Ox serves exceptional steaks and charcuterie in a dimly lit, intimate setting. Their dry-aged Icelandic beef comes from highland cattle and costs 6,200-8,900 ISK depending on cut and weight. The restaurant also produces its own charcuterie and maintains an extensive wine cellar.

Austur-Indíafélagið

This Indian restaurant at Hverfisgata 56 has operated since 2003 and consistently delivers authentic subcontinental flavours using both imported spices and local ingredients like Icelandic lamb. Curry dishes range from 2,200-3,800 ISK, with generous portions that often provide two meals.

Practical Considerations

Reykjavik restaurants typically open for dinner at 17:00, with kitchens closing around 22:00 Sunday-Thursday and 23:00 Friday-Saturday. Lunch service generally runs 11:30-14:00. Reservations are essential for fine dining establishments and recommended for most other restaurants, particularly during summer months (June-August) when tourism peaks.

Tipping is not expected in Iceland, as service charges are included in menu prices. However, exceptional service is sometimes acknowledged with a 10% gratuity. Most restaurants accept credit cards, though some smaller establishments prefer cash.

The Reykjavik dining scene continues evolving rapidly, with new openings each season. This dynamism, combined with Iceland's exceptional raw ingredients and the creativity of local chefs, ensures that the city's culinary reputation will only continue growing.

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