Reykjavík’s culinary landscape has transformed dramatically over the past decade. What was once a city of lamb soup and pylsur has grown into a vibrant destination for food lovers, with everything from casual food halls to world-class fine dining. In 2026, the capital offers an exciting mix of traditional Icelandic ingredients, international influences, and innovative cooking techniques. Whether you’re on a budget or splurging on a special meal, this guide will help you navigate the best places to eat in Reykjavík. For broader planning, see our Reykjavík on a budget: what to skip and where to splurge.

Food halls: the heart of Reykjavík’s casual dining scene

Food halls have become a central part of Reykjavík’s dining culture, offering a wide variety of cuisines under one roof. They’re perfect for groups with different tastes, solo diners, or anyone wanting to sample multiple dishes in one visit.

Grandi Mathöll (Grandi Food Hall)

Located in the revitalised Grandi harbour area, Grandi Mathöll opened in 2017 and remains one of the most popular food destinations. The hall features around ten permanent stalls and a rotating pop-up. Highlights include:

  • Messinn – Specialising in pan-fried fish with seasonal vegetables and butter sauce. Main courses range from 2,900–4,500 ISK.
  • Sæta Svínið (The Sweet Pig) – Known for its slow-roasted pork belly sandwiches (around 1,800 ISK) and Icelandic craft beers.
  • KronKron – Offers gourmet hot dogs with toppings like caramelised onions and remoulade (1,200 ISK).
  • Valdís – A popular ice cream stand serving unique flavours like liquorice and skyr (single scoop 600 ISK).

Grandi Mathöll is open daily from 11:30 to 21:00 (later on weekends). It’s a 10-minute walk from the city centre or a short bus ride on route 14.

Hlemmur Mathöll

Housed in the former Hlemmur bus terminal, this food hall opened in 2018 and quickly became a local favourite. Its central location at Laugavegur 107 makes it easy to reach. Standouts include:

  • Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur – The legendary hot dog stand’s first indoor outlet. A classic pylsa with everything costs 620 ISK.
  • Fjallkonan – Icelandic lamb soup (2,500 ISK) and traditional flatkaka with smoked lamb.
  • Sushi Samba – Fresh sushi rolls and poke bowls (from 1,900 ISK).
  • Kaffi Vinyl – Coffee and vinyl records; a great spot for a latte (650 ISK) and a pastry.

Hlemmur Mathöll is open daily 11:00–22:00. It’s a great option for a quick lunch before exploring the city.

Kolaportið Flea Market Food Court

For a more rustic experience, visit Kolaportið (the flea market) on weekends. The small food court inside offers Icelandic street food like fermented shark (hákarl), dried fish (harðfiskur), and rye bread ice cream. Prices are low: a bowl of lamb soup costs around 1,500 ISK. The market is at Tryggvagata 19, open Saturday and Sunday 11:00–17:00.

Traditional Icelandic cuisine: where to taste the classics

If you want to try authentic Icelandic dishes, several restaurants in Reykjavík focus on traditional recipes with modern twists.

Íslenski Barinn

Located at Ingólfsstræti 1a, this cosy restaurant serves classic Icelandic fare in a pub-like setting. Must-tries include the “Icelandic meat soup” (2,690 ISK), fish and chips made with haddock (3,290 ISK), and the famous “Plokkfiskur” – a creamy fish stew served with rye bread (2,990 ISK). They also offer a tasting platter for two (9,900 ISK) with samples of lamb, fish, and skyr. Open daily 11:30–22:00.

Þrír Frakkar (Three Coats)

This intimate restaurant on Baldursgata 14 has been serving traditional Icelandic dishes since 1989. Specialities include whale steak (though controversial, it’s still on the menu), puffin breast, and horse tenderloin. Prices are high: main courses range from 5,000–8,000 ISK. Reservations are essential, especially in summer. Open Monday–Saturday 11:30–22:00, closed Sunday.

Matur og Drykkur

Located in the Grandi area (Grandagarður 8), this restaurant is dedicated to reviving historic Icelandic recipes. The menu changes seasonally but often includes fermented lamb, skyr with berries, and rye bread ice cream. A three-course dinner costs around 9,900 ISK. Open for dinner Wednesday–Sunday 18:00–22:00.

Fine dining and high-end experiences

Reykjavík boasts several high-end restaurants that have gained international recognition, including Michelin stars.

Dill

Dill, located at Hverfisgata 12, was the first Icelandic restaurant to receive a Michelin star (in 2017) and retains it in 2026. Chef Gunnar Karl Gíslason focuses on Nordic cuisine with local ingredients like wild herbs, fish, and lamb. The tasting menu (10–12 courses) costs 19,900 ISK, with a wine pairing at 13,900 ISK. Dill is open Thursday–Saturday 18:00–23:00. Reservations must be made weeks in advance.

Óx

Óx, at Þingholtsstræti 5, is an intimate 11-seat restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. The tasting menu changes daily based on what’s available from local farms and waters. The price is 24,900 ISK per person, including drinks. Open Wednesday–Saturday 19:00–23:00. Booking is essential.

Grillið

Perched on the 4th floor of the Radisson Blu Saga Hotel (Hagatorg), Grillið offers fine dining with panoramic views of the city and Faxaflói Bay. The menu features Icelandic lamb, langoustine, and Arctic char. A three-course dinner costs around 12,000 ISK. Open daily 18:00–22:00.

International cuisine and fusion

Reykjavík’s international food scene has expanded, with excellent options for Asian, Middle Eastern, and Italian cuisine.

Kopar

Located at Geirsgata 3 in the old harbour, Kopar blends Icelandic ingredients with international techniques. Dishes like seared scallops with cauliflower purée (3,500 ISK) and lamb fillet with rhubarb (5,500 ISK) are highlights. The restaurant also offers a “Food & Fun” menu during the annual festival. Open daily 11:30–22:00.

Noodle Station

For a quick, affordable meal, Noodle Station (two locations: Laugavegur 86 and Skúlagata 15) serves hearty bowls of noodle soup with beef, chicken, or vegetables. A large bowl costs 1,890 ISK. Open daily 11:00–22:00.

Arabian Taste

At Hallarmúli 2, this family-run restaurant offers authentic Middle Eastern food. Shawarma wraps (1,490 ISK) and falafel plates (1,790 ISK) are popular. Open daily 11:00–22:00.

Cafés and bakeries: coffee culture and sweet treats

Reykjavík has a thriving coffee culture, with many independent cafés serving excellent brews and pastries.

Reykjavík Roasters

With locations at Kárastígur 1 and Frakkastígur 6, this is arguably the best coffee in town. A flat white costs 650 ISK. They also sell their own beans. Open daily 08:00–18:00.

Brauð & Co.

Famous for its cinnamon rolls (690 ISK) and sourdough bread, Brauð & Co. at Frakkastígur 16 is a must-visit. Arrive early to avoid queues. Open daily 07:00–18:00.

Sandholt

This bakery-café at Laugavegur 36 has been a staple since 1920. Try the rye bread with butter (450 ISK) or a slice of skyr cake (850 ISK). Open daily 07:00–22:00.

Practical tips for eating in Reykjavík

  • Prices: Eating out in Reykjavík is expensive. Budget at least 3,000–5,000 ISK per meal for a casual sit-down restaurant. Fine dining can cost 10,000–25,000 ISK per person. For overall trip budgeting, see our Iceland on a budget: realistic 2026 daily cost.
  • Tipping: Not expected; service charges are included in the bill.
  • Reservations: Essential for popular restaurants, especially on weekends and during summer.
  • Opening hours: Many restaurants close on Sundays or have limited hours. Always check ahead.
  • Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available, but inform the restaurant in advance for stricter diets.

For more comprehensive travel information, see our The Complete Guide to Iceland 2026. Also check out our guide to Reykjavík neighborhoods: 101 vs 105 vs Vesturbær explained for more context on the city.

Related articles

  • The Complete Guide to Iceland 2026
  • Reykjavík Food Halls: a local’s guide
  • Icelandic Cuisine: traditional dishes explained
  • Reykjavík on a budget: money-saving tips