Reykjavik’s food scene surprises nearly everyone who visits. In this small Nordic capital, chefs turn the raw beauty of Iceland into remarkable cuisine, from smoked lamb and Arctic char to skyr-infused desserts and rich seafood soups. The city’s dining culture blends tradition with innovation, offering everything from Michelin-star tasting menus to cozy harborside shacks. Whether you’re a fine-dining enthusiast or a traveler hunting local flavor, these ten restaurants deliver a delicious taste of Iceland’s culinary heart.
1. Dill Restaurant
Iceland’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, Dill, transforms local ingredients into edible art. Chef Gunnar Karl Gíslason crafts multi-course tasting menus that highlight Iceland’s wild herbs, Arctic char, and foraged greens. The minimalist Nordic setting mirrors the purity of its flavors. Each dish reflects the land and its changing seasons. With its creativity and respect for tradition, Dill remains Reykjavik’s most celebrated fine dining experience.
2. Fiskfelagid
Located in a cozy 19th-century cellar near the harbor, Fiskfelagid, or The Fish Company, offers seafood with international flair. Its globally inspired menu combines local fish with flavors from Asia, Africa, and the Mediterranean. Expect cod with chili and mango or Arctic char with spiced sauces. Warm lighting and stone walls create an inviting setting. This spot captures Reykjavik’s coastal freshness with an adventurous twist that food lovers adore.
3. Grillmarkadurinn
Grillmarkadurinn, or The Grill Market, blends Icelandic ingredients with bold, smoky flavor. The open kitchen showcases chefs grilling lamb, reindeer, and seafood over open flames. Local farms and fisheries supply everything on the menu, ensuring freshness in every bite. The modern yet rustic atmosphere buzzes with energy, making it ideal for groups or date nights. With creative cocktails and rich, hearty dishes, this restaurant is a Reykjavik staple.
4. Matur og Drykkur
Matur og Drykkur, meaning “Food and Drink,” celebrates traditional Icelandic recipes reimagined for modern palates. Classic dishes like fish soup, lamb stew, and skyr desserts are elevated through artful presentation. Set beside the old harbor, it offers a warm, nostalgic atmosphere filled with local charm. Every dish honors Iceland’s roots while embracing creativity. For a true taste of heritage with a contemporary twist, this restaurant is a must-visit.
5. Snaps Bistro
Snaps is one of Reykjavik’s most beloved local bistros, known for its casual French charm and inviting atmosphere. The glass-roofed dining room fills with natural light, perfect for brunch or evening wine. The menu features mussels, steak frites, and daily seafood specials, all served with Icelandic freshness. Locals love its lively energy and affordable prices. Snaps is where Reykjavik’s social scene meets simple, delicious European comfort food.
6. Saegreifinn
Saegreifinn, also known as The Sea Baron, is a humble harbor shack that’s become a Reykjavik icon. Its famous lobster soup is rich, creamy, and unforgettable. Diners choose skewers of freshly caught fish like salmon or monkfish, grilled to perfection. The wooden benches and nautical decor give it an old fisherman’s charm. Loved by both tourists and locals, Saegreifinn proves that simple, authentic food can be the most satisfying experience of all.
7. Apotek Kitchen and Bar
Housed in a historic pharmacy, Apotek combines chic elegance with Icelandic hospitality. The menu blends Nordic and European flavors, featuring dishes like duck confit, seafood risotto, and Icelandic lamb. Its cocktail bar is one of the city’s best, serving creative, pharmacy-inspired drinks. Stylish yet welcoming, Apotek is great for brunch, dinner, or late-night cocktails. It perfectly balances Reykjavik’s old-world history with modern sophistication.
8. Messinn
Messinn specializes in pan-fried fish served sizzling straight from the skillet, just as locals like it. The cozy, wood-filled dining room feels like a fisherman’s lodge, while the menu highlights Arctic char, cod, and wolffish cooked with herbs and butter. The portions are generous and the prices reasonable, making it a local favorite. Messinn offers true Icelandic comfort food in a warm, relaxed setting that’s perfect for families and travelers alike.
9. Kopar Restaurant
Set right along Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, Kopar delivers the perfect mix of fine dining and seaside warmth. Its glass-fronted dining room overlooks bobbing boats and sweeping views of Mount Esja, setting a beautiful backdrop for dinner. The menu celebrates Icelandic ingredients, think langoustine soup, seaweed butter, and tender lamb, with playful, modern touches. With exceptional service and a cozy atmosphere, Kopar feels elegant yet approachable, offering a true taste of coastal Iceland.
10. Reykjavik Street Food
Reykjavik Street Food proves that great Icelandic cuisine doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag. This popular downtown spot serves local favorites like lamb soup, fish stew, and creamy shellfish soup, all cooked with homemade flavor and warmth. The staff treats visitors like family, and generous portions make it an excellent value. It’s a welcoming stop for travelers exploring the city on foot, simple, hearty, and packed with authentic Icelandic taste that feels homemade in every spoonful.
