Top 5 Places to Eat in Reykjavik

Written by Elsa Holm, Julien Lambert
02/09/2025
Aerial view of Reykjavik, Iceland, showcasing colorful houses and a stunning sunset.
Stephen Leonardi, Pexels

Reykjavik's dining scene is a vibrant fusion of traditional Icelandic ingredients and modern culinary techniques, providing options for every taste and budget.

1. Óx Restaurant

Cuisine: New Nordic / Tasting Menu

Dining at Óx is an exclusive and intimate experience, often feeling like a private meal with the chef. Seating only 10-17 guests around a counter, the focus is entirely on Chef Thrainn Freyr Vigfússon's meticulously crafted tasting menu, featuring standouts like reindeer tartare and smoked Arctic char, showcasing Iceland's seasonal bounty. The atmosphere is sleek and understated, allowing the innovative dishes and personal interaction with the culinary team to take center stage.

Price: ISK 30,000+ / USD 200+ per person (Tasting menu)

Getting There: Located in downtown Reykjavik, walking distance from the main area.

2. Fiskmarkaðurinn (The Fish Market)

Cuisine: Icelandic-Japanese Fusion Seafood

Fiskmarkaðurinn presents a stylish, lively atmosphere across two floors, adorned with elegant Asian-inspired lanterns. The menu skillfully blends fresh Icelandic seafood with Japanese culinary techniques, offering a range of dishes from delicate sashimi and maki to rich lobster soup and robata-grilled minke whale. This is an excellent choice for those seeking an upscale dining experience with vibrant flavors and a buzzing social ambiance.

Price: ISK 8,900+ / USD 65+ for tasting menu; individual dishes vary (main courses ~ISK 4,500 / USD 35)

Getting There: Located in downtown Reykjavik, walking distance from the main area.

3. Reykjavik Kitchen

Cuisine: Traditional Icelandic with Modern Twist

Reykjavik Kitchen offers a friendly and relaxed setting, perfect for experiencing classic Icelandic flavors. The family-run restaurant prides itself on fresh local fish and meat, with dishes like hearty 'kjötsúpa' (meat soup), perfectly pan-fried cod, and succulent Icelandic lamb. They also thoughtfully include vegan options and delightful desserts such as Icelandic vínarterta cake. A 3-course menu is available, making it a wonderful spot for a complete culinary journey.

Price: ISK 4,000 - 8,000 / USD 30 - 60 per person

Getting There: Situated in the heart of Reykjavik, walking distance from the main area.

4. Le Kock

Cuisine: Gourmet Burgers & Sandwiches

Le Kock offers a trendy, urban eatery experience with a cool, youthful vibe, featuring street art and punk music. Known for its gourmet approach to fast food, the chefs, with fine dining backgrounds, craft high-quality burgers and sandwiches using local Icelandic ingredients. The top-rated vegan burger is a standout, as is the spicy fried chicken sandwich. It is a perfect spot for a satisfying and flavorful casual meal.

Price: ISK 2,000 - 3,500 / USD 15 - 25 per person

Getting There: Located in downtown Reykjavik, walking distance from the main area.

5. Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

Cuisine: Icelandic Hot Dogs

This legendary hot dog stand is a must-visit for anyone in Reykjavik, beloved by both locals and visitors. The famous Icelandic hot dogs are made primarily from lamb and are best enjoyed 'with the works' – a delightful combination of ketchup, sweet mustard, remoulade (a mayonnaise-based relish), crispy fried onions, and raw onions. It's a quick, delicious, and quintessential Reykjavik experience, often accompanied by a lively queue.

Price: ISK 700 - 1,000 / USD 5 - 8 per hot dog

Getting There: Centrally located in downtown Reykjavik, easily accessible by foot.

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