Iceland’s best restaurants serve both traditional and high-quality takes on global cuisines, like Kaffivagninn tavern on the harbor which features three and five course tasting menus as well as a la carte dishes at dinner time.
Matholl Sudurlands outside of the capital offers a food hall known as’matholl’ which offers various cuisines, including their popular salty-licorice ice cream flavor! Also, enjoy their variety of other food offerings.
Fiskmarkadurinn
Fiskmarkadurinn offers some of the finest seafood in Iceland. Situated in a historic house near Reykjavik, its cozy yet upscale decor and friendly staff ensure guests can enjoy delicious meals and drinks such as chardonnay and liqueur; menu selections include deliciously prepared fried salmon, scallops and lobster soup as well as delectable desserts; service is outstanding as well.
For seafood enthusiasts, this trendy eatery and wine bar is an absolute must. Their chef has created an unforgettable menu of freshly caught seafood dishes combined with locally-grown vegetables from nearby farms. Don’t miss their famous Shiitake Mushroom Burger which comes complete with vegan cheese, caramelized onions, red cabbage and truffle ketchup for something different!
Brut is one of Reykjavik’s premier restaurants, providing high-end dining at an affordable price. Renowned for their creative dishes and beautiful setting, making Brut an ideal venue to commemorate special occasions or just dine casually for dinner a la carte or on their three and five course tasting adventure dinner menus – they even have their own wine list exclusive to them!
Kaffivagninn
Kaffivagninn restaurant can be found along Reykjavik’s picturesque harbor and offers cozy atmosphere and delicious breakfast options, along with gorgeous harbor views. Kaffivagninn also provides breathtaking harbor views for an ideal place to unwind after an active sightseeing day; plus, Icelandic dishes and desserts that highlight local ingredients are offered.
Established in 1935, this restaurant is the oldest operating in the country and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily for its guests. They can also indulge in their signature cakes and pastries while sipping a cup of coffee in its cozy interior which has maintained much of its classic aesthetic while modernising to meet customers’ demands.
Kaffivagninn is widely recognized as one of the premier restaurants in Iceland due to its authentic Icelandic cuisine. Their menu offers traditional Icelandic fare such as skyr and hangikjot (smoked lamb), as well as modern interpretations of classic dishes made with locally-grown ingredients. Their meals can also be complemented with wine, beer and premium coffee selections.
Narfeyrarstofa
Kaffivagninn restaurant stands as an irreplaceable piece of Icelandic history and culture. Reportedly, this historic space served as the meeting point for sailors, fishermen and dockworkers in its past life – hence inspiring its name Kaffivagninn (The Coffee Wagon).
Food at this restaurant is delicious and features both local ingredients with contemporary flair, such as the delicious lamb tenderloin with blueberry demi-glace and delectable dishes like smoked salmon benedict. Additionally, service is outstanding and atmosphere at the restaurant is warm and welcoming.
Reykjavik is home to some great Icelandic food, and this restaurant is the ideal place for anyone wanting a taste. Their chef uses only fresh, top-quality ingredients that give their cuisine its special flavor, along with great coffee and delicious cocktails – offering wines, spirits and beers among other drinks options.
Sjavarpakkhusid
Sjavarpakkhusid Restaurant stands out among Iceland’s exceptional dining scene by showcasing its culinary legacy and seafood-oriented offerings. Situated in Stykkisholmur and located close to Stykkisholmur Harbour, Sjavarpakkhusid provides delicious fish-focused dishes sure to meet all your cravings, such as blue mussels in white wine (depending on availability), scallops, and halibut (the restaurant also provides local beverages such as beer and wine).
Moss Restaurant prides itself on supporting local farmers and fishermen, with an eye toward offering delicious fare in an inviting atmosphere. Their chefs offer exquisite service while the menu changes seasonally to reflect what produce is in season. In addition to an impressive a la carte selection, three and five course tasting adventures can also be booked at dinner time – think langoustine seasoned with black lava salt or seared cod with caviar served alongside Italian indulgences like truffle-infused butter or Sicilian olive oil! Its dimly lit dining room features gorgeous views over nearby lava fields making this an ideal spot for romantic dinner dates!
Otto
Otto Restaurant is an ideal family dining choice. Offering traditional and contemporary Icelandic cuisine, their menu boasts a selection of meat, seafood and vegetarian/vegan options as well as tempting cocktails and wines to complement their meal.
Fridheimar, one of Iceland’s premier tomato restaurants, can’t be missed when traveling through Iceland’s Golden Circle tour. Their greenhouses run off geothermal energy and offer delicious salads, soups and pasta made with tomatoes! Besides this amazing treat, you may even try their unique tomato-flavored beer! Don’t miss this must-see location.
Westfjords are an unspoilt region where few tourists venture, so to experience homegrown hospitality during your roadtrip stopover in this wild region, Litlibaer Cafe provides the perfect respite. This warm and welcoming cafe features an ambiance reminiscent of someone’s home; their signature dish is Danish open sandwich known as Smorrebrod that’s filled with fish and greens – truly an ideal pitstop on its own!
