What are the Best Restaurants in Reykjavik, Iceland?

Reykjavik, Iceland is one of the most beautiful places on earth, and it’s no surprise that it’s the home of some of the best restaurants on the planet. From incredible seafood to cozy cafes, this city has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for traditional Icelandic cuisine, pizza, burgers, or something more exotic, you can find it in Reykjavik.

But how do you know which Reykjavik restaurants are truly the best? To help narrow down your options and make sure you have an amazing culinary experience in this vibrant capital city, here are our top 5 picks for the best restaurants in Reykjavik.

1. Fishmarket

If you love seafood, then the Michelin-starred Fishmarket can’t be missed. With its spectacular view of Old Harbour, this restaurant offers some of the freshest and tastiest seafood in the city. You’ll find delicacies such as native Arctic char and smoked trout on the menu, along with a wide range of incredible dishes prepared with precision and served with care. And, true to its name, the restaurant has a fishmonger shop where you can purchase fresh seafood to take home.

2. Svinabudeyid

Nothing says Iceland quite like a traditional Icelandic feast – and at Svinabudeyid, that’s exactly what you’ll find. This family-friendly restaurant offers an array of delicious Icelandic dishes, ranging from smoked puffin and whale to hearty lamb stew. The comfy atmosphere and cozy ambiance only add to the experience.

3. Grillmarkaðurinn

Your Reykjavik food tour would be incomplete without sampling the delicious burgers at Grillmarkaðurinn. This popular eatery does burgers right, offering handcrafted beef patties to rival even the best burgers in America. You can also choose from a selection of vegetarian options and sides including a winning combination of crispy fries and truffle mayonnaise.

4. Le Bistro

For a taste of French cuisine in Reykjavik, we highly recommend a visit to Le Bistro. Cosy yet stylishly modern, this restaurant is run by husband and wife team Guillaume and Carmen Marre, who aim to bring a taste of Paris to their guests. The menu offers Gallic classics with an Icelandic twist; think Icelandic cod with dill hollandaise or seasonal tartares served with homemade condiments.

5. Sushisamba

Last but not least is Sushisamba, Reykjavik’s most popular Asian fusion restaurant. Here you’ll find a vibrant mix of traditional Japanese sushi and Brazilian-style samba cuisine, resulting in a truly unique and memorable dining experience. The decor is equally striking; large windows flood the interiors with natural light as guests can watch the chefs prepare their dishes in an open kitchen.

No matter what type of cuisine you hope to experience in Reykjavik, these five restaurants provide some of the very best food in the city – and indeed in all of Iceland. Book your table today at one (or more) of these spots, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable dining experience.

For more information about restaurants in Reykjavik, please visit the official website of Inspired By Iceland.

An Insider’s Guide to Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is a charming city renowned for its natural beauty, unique culture, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a quiet vacation or an adventurous trip, Reykjavik has got it all covered. Here’s an insider’s guide to help you make the most of your time in Reykjavik.

Exploring Reykjavik’s Attractions

The first thing you should do when you arrive in Reykjavik is to take a walking tour of the city’s main attractions. Start at the iconic Hallgrímskirkja, the largest church in the city, and take an elevator ride to the top for a fantastic view of the city. Then, head to the Harpa Concert Hall, a stunning glass building that offers a variety of performances and exhibitions. Make sure to check out the impressive artwork inside.

From there, walk to the Reykjavik City Museum to learn about the city’s history and culture. Don’t forget to visit the National Museum of Iceland, where you’ll find fascinating exhibitions on Iceland’s Viking past and its modern-day society.

Dining in Reykjavik: The Best Restaurants

Reykjavik has an exceptional food scene, with a range of options that will suit every budget and taste. Here are some of the best restaurants in the city:

1. Dill: This Michelin-starred restaurant serves contemporary Icelandic cuisine, with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.

2. Matur og Drykkur: Another restaurant that focuses on Icelandic cuisine, Matur og Drykkur serves traditional dishes with a modern twist.

3. Fish Market: As the name suggests, Fish Market is all about seafood. The restaurant’s menu features fresh catches inspired by traditional Icelandic and Asian cuisine.

4. Kopar: Located by the harbor, Kopar offers stunning views of the water as well as delicious seafood dishes and steak.

5. Snaps: A French-inspired bistro, Snaps offers a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of dishes, including vegetarian options.

Cultural Experiences in Reykjavik

Reykjavik also boasts several museums and galleries, showcasing the city’s cultural heritage and contemporary art scene. If you’re interested in literature, visit the Reykjavik City Library or the Nordic House, which has a vast collection of Nordic literature. The Icelandic Phallological Museum, albeit not for everyone, is also an unusual and humoristic experience.

For a unique cultural experience, visit the Laugardalur Valley. There you’ll find hot swimming pools, hot tubs, and steam baths. The locals love to visit the pools to relax and socialize. Take a dip in the thermal water, and there’s no better way to warm up and relax while experiencing a local pastime.

A History Lesson in Reykjavik

Reykjavik has a rich history that dates back to the Viking era, and there are several historical sites to explore in the city. Visit the Settlement Exhibition to learn about the first Viking settlers in Iceland. The museum offers an interactive experience that takes you back in time. The Arbaejarsafn Open Air Museum is also worth visiting, showcasing the history of the city and its inhabitants for the past centuries.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

If you want to get off the beaten path and explore some less-known areas, check out the nearby Elliðaárdalur Valley, where you can find an abundance of flora and fauna. Take a walk in the valley and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Reykjavik also has plenty of street art, and you can find some stunning murals in the city’s side streets. Take a walk around the Vesturbær neighborhood to see some of the best examples.

Lastly, for a unique experience, take a whale watching tour from Reykjavik’s harbor. During the tour, you’ll see humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, and puffins.

Conclusion

Reykjavik is a city that has managed to maintain its unique cultural heritage while embracing modernity. With its stunning natural scenery, exceptional food scene, and fascinating cultural offerings, Reykjavik is a destination that should be on any traveler’s bucket list.