Being the capital of Iceland, Reykjavik is a relatively small city. Nevertheless, it has a lot of interesting spots for visitors, and seafood restaurants are among them. Seafood and fish are the most important ingredients of Icelandic cuisine – they make dishes incredibly tasty and diverse. So, where is it better to try it in Reykjavik? Here are some of the best culinary establishments offering iconic dishes cooked according to Icelandic recipes…
Fiskfelagid
The fans of sea delicacies should set off to Fiskfelagid, which is one of the best fish restaurants in Reykjavik. On a sunny day, you can enjoy seafood right on the summer terrace. This place is considered to be the main gastronomic attraction of Reykjavik.
(photo by Chris Goldberg)
Fiskfelagid features a cozy atmosphere: there’s a huge map of the world on one of the walls, photographs taken in different countries, old window panes borrowed from the church, and rustic sheep blankets that are used as curtains. In order to enjoy not only the excellent taste of dishes, but also excellent serving, each table is equipped with an individual lighting system.
The restaurant’s menu provides a huge selection of exotic fish delicacies and sushi, as well as special offers – ‘Taste of Iceland’ and “Taste of the World”. These are two unique sets created from the local ingredients and inspired by international cuisine. The menu is designed in such a way that the visitor could make a gastronomic trip not only around Iceland, but also all over the world without leaving the table.
Address: Vesturgata 2a, Grófartorg
Hours: Monday-Friday 11.30am-2pm, 5.30pm-1am, Saturday-Sunday 5.30pm-12am
Average bill: $50-100/person
Humarhusid
Specializing in seafood and fish dishes, Humarhusid Restaurant is surrounded by dense vegetation. This establishment is considered to be one of the oldest and most respected in Reykjavik. A quiet and tranquil atmosphere of Humarhusid is very suitable for enjoying sea delicacies.
(photo by hsili)
The restaurant is placed in the building of the 19th century, which gives it a special character and authenticity. Humarhusid opened its doors in 1993, and for 20 years of work the establishment has gained an impeccable reputation – it continues to impress the visitors with superbly prepared delicacies.
The menu offers a variety of seafood, fish, and meat dishes as well as such original delicacies as ‘Whale with ginger jelly’ and ‘Octopus carpaccio’. The main dish of the restaurant is a lobster, which can be cooked according to a dozen of different recipes.
Address: Amtmannsstígur 1
Hours: Monday-Friday 11.30am-3pm, 5pm-10pm, Saturday 11.30am-3pm, Sunday 5pm-10pm
Average bill: $20-50/person
Kopar
Kopar Restaurant specializes in sea delicacies. This is a great place to enjoy freshly cooked fish, as well as to admire the beautiful marina and fishing boats.
(photo by Rich Renomeron)
You can choose a table in the main hall, where you can admire the departing ships through a large panoramic window, and on the veranda, where it’s so pleasant to enjoy the cooked dishes in the fresh sea air. The decor of the establishment is impeccable, stylish and cozy: leather seats and soft lighting. The menu of the restaurant offers a variety of Icelandic dishes: from seafood to juicy lamb. The restaurant pays special attention to the quality of products, so all ingredients are purchased from farmers and fishermen. In the menu there is a special section ‘Kopar Adventure’, which offers the best traditional dishes of Iceland. Also, visitors can choose the ‘Fisherman’s Collection’ – the collection of whiskey and world-class cognac coupled with local delicacies.
Address: Geirsgata 3
Hours: Monday-Saturday 11.30am-2pm, 6pm-10.30pm, Sunday 6pm-11.30pm
Average bill: $25-70/person
Kjallarinn Kitchen Bar
Kjallarinn Kitchen Bar is a hidden pearl in the heart of Reykjavik old town. It’s placed in the basement of one of the most beautiful houses of the city. This spot is ideal for romantic evenings where you can enjoy deliciously prepared dishes and a wonderful atmosphere with your sweetheart.
(photo by Chris Goldberg)
The restaurant is decorated in a modern style with the use of natural colors: muted lights, brick walls, wooden floors and leather furniture. In the center of the hall there is a large aquarium built into the bar. The menu offers premium dishes cooked from meat and freshly caught fish, as well as unusual delicacies, prepared according to French recipes. Visitors will be able to taste pizza-sushi, lobster with chili sauce and other unique dishes. An experienced sommelier will help you to choose the right drink for a particular delicacy.
Address: Aðalstræti 2
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11.30am-2.30pm, 6pm-10pm, Friday-Saturday 11.30am-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm
Average bill: $20-60/person
(photo by Patty Mitchell)
Fish and seafood is undoubtedly the basis of local cooking and the most varied and rich category of Icelandic cuisine. Of course, this is because fishing is the main occupation of the locals. In the above-mentioned restaurants of Reykjavik you can taste dishes cooked from different sea inhabitants: from banal herring and cod to exquisite trout or exotic stingray. Want to try them during your trip to Reykjavik? Then use Reykjavik car rental in order to reach the required restaurant.
