The 5 Best Restaurants in Reykjavik

Our tips on where to eat in Iceland's capital. Even if you choose to eat out just once while you're there, make sure it's at one of the best restaurants in Reykjavik.

Lava

Overlooking the bubbling natural springs of the Blue Lagoon and incorporating the volcanic rock into its design, Lava has an unbeatable setting. A three-course lunch of contemporary cuisine here is the perfect way to top off a geothermal soak. Well worth the drive from the city.

Grillmarket

A favourite in Reykjavik, and rightly so – Grillmarket is a must-visit for carnivores. The best option here is the tasting menu, so don’t fill up on the fruit bread with Icelandic butter and lava salt. The ambience is cool and the service diligent.

Matarkjallarinn

My personal favourite. The service and the food – with cocktail pairing – combine magically in this cellar, located in the heart of the old town. The chef’s tasting menu is the way to go, often showing off fish, fowl and meat across different courses.

ÒX

A really special dining experience in a beautiful old Icelandic kitchen. There is room for just 11 diners, and you’ll be seated around the chef as he prepares your plates and awakens your senses. Eating here is an Icelandic adventure of another sort, with incredible ingredients, textures and flavour combinations making their way onto the plate. It’s not cheap, but for something totally unique, ÒX is hard to beat.

Fish Company

With arguably the most impressive setting of the city centre restaurants, Fiskfélagið continues the theme of strong Icelandic flavours and with a focus on fish, the cuisine here is modern Nordic fusion. The biggest decision is whether to follow their menu ‘Around the World’ or ‘Around Iceland’.

Baejarins Beztu Pylsur

We couldn’t resist sneaking a sixth one in here – and you’ll thank us when you try the hot dogs here. Touted as the best in Europe, they are worth the queue. Just ask Bill Clinton, who put the stand firmly on the map.