The Best Restaurants In Iceland 2023: A Culinary Journey

Iceland is known for its stunning landscapes and unique culture, but its food scene has gained traction in recent years as well. From traditional Icelandic dishes to modern fusion cuisine, the country offers a diverse range of dining options. In this article, we’ll explore the top restaurants in Iceland that are sure to tantalize your taste buds in 2023.

Introduction

Iceland is a country that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural diversity. This is reflected in its food scene, which has evolved over the years to incorporate a range of international cuisines while still staying true to its roots. Whether you’re looking for traditional Icelandic fare or innovative fusion cuisine, there’s something for every palate in Iceland.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the best restaurants in Iceland that are sure to make your gastronomic journey an unforgettable one. From mouth-watering seafood dishes to hearty meat platters, these restaurants showcase the best of Icelandic cuisine, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create unique and delicious dishes. Join us on this culinary adventure as we explore the top restaurants in Iceland for 2023.

What makes Icelandic cuisine unique?

Icelandic cuisine is unique in many ways, reflecting the country’s history and culture. Here are some of the key characteristics that set Icelandic cuisine apart:

Characteristics
Examples

Use of local ingredients
Fresh seafood, lamb, wild berries, root vegetables

Preservation techniques
Smoking, pickling, fermenting

Traditional dishes
Hákarl (fermented shark), hangikjöt (smoked lamb), rúgbrauð (rye bread)

These unique characteristics are what make Icelandic cuisine so special and why it has gained a following around the world. Let’s now explore the best restaurants in Iceland to experience this cuisine firsthand.

The Best Restaurants in Iceland 2023

1. Dill Restaurant 🍴

Dill Restaurant is located in the heart of Reykjavik and is known for its innovative and contemporary take on Icelandic cuisine. The restaurant has been awarded a Michelin star and prides itself on using local and seasonal ingredients to create unique and flavorful dishes. Some of their standout dishes include the langoustine with chamomile and the Icelandic cod with smoked mussels.

2. Matur og Drykkur 🍴

Matur og Drykkur, which means food and drink in Icelandic, is a restaurant that specializes in traditional Icelandic cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant is located in a historic building in downtown Reykjavik and offers a cozy and intimate setting. Their menu features traditional dishes such as lamb, fish, and fermented shark, as well as a range of vegetarian options.

3. Fish Company 🍴

Fish Company is a restaurant that specializes in seafood and offers a creative and contemporary take on traditional Icelandic dishes. The restaurant is located in a historic building in the heart of Reykjavik and has a warm and inviting atmosphere. Some of their standout dishes include the salted cod with potato foam and the pan-fried langoustine with fennel and citrus.

4. Kol Restaurant 🍴

Kol Restaurant is a modern and stylish restaurant located in downtown Reykjavik. The restaurant offers a range of dishes that draw inspiration from both Icelandic and international cuisine. Their menu features fresh seafood, meats, and vegetables, and they are known for their wood-fired grill and homemade sourdough bread.

5. Kopar Restaurant 🍴

Kopar Restaurant is located in the heart of Reykjavik’s old harbor and offers stunning views of the ocean and mountains. The restaurant specializes in seafood and uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create unique and flavorful dishes. Some of their standout dishes include the Icelandic lobster soup and the grilled Icelandic salmon with potato purée and dill sauce.

6. Slippbarinn 🍴

Slippbarinn is a bar and restaurant located in the trendy Marina Hotel in Reykjavik. The restaurant offers a range of dishes that draw inspiration from both Icelandic and international cuisine. Their menu features fresh seafood, meats, and vegetables, and they are known for their creative cocktails and cozy atmosphere.

7. Geiri Smart Restaurant 🍴

Geiri Smart Restaurant is located in the beautiful Hotel Borg in downtown Reykjavik and offers a unique and elegant dining experience. The restaurant is known for its use of local and seasonal ingredients and its creative and inventive dishes. Some of their standout dishes include the Icelandic lamb with black garlic and the grilled Arctic char with beetroot and horseradish.

8. Grillmarkadurinn 🍴

Grillmarkadurinn is a restaurant located in downtown Reykjavik that specializes in grilled meats and seafood. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere and features an open kitchen where guests can watch their food being prepared. Their menu features a range of dishes, including dry-aged beef, lamb, and fresh seafood.

9. Fiskfelagid 🍴

Fiskfelagid, which means fish company in Icelandic, is a restaurant located in downtown Reykjavik that specializes in seafood. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate setting and offers a range of dishes that showcase the freshest local ingredients. Some of their standout dishes include the pan-fried cod with lobster sauce and the Icelandic scallops with cauliflower purée.

10. Vox Restaurant 🍴

Vox Restaurant is located in the elegant Hilton Reykjavik Nordica hotel and offers a sophisticated and refined dining experience. The restaurant is known for its use of local and seasonal ingredients and its innovative and creative dishes. Some of their standout dishes include the slow-cooked Icelandic lamb with fennel and the pan-fried Arctic char with smoked tomato compote.

11. Sjavargrillid 🍴

Sjavargrillid is a restaurant located in downtown Reykjavik that specializes in seafood. The restaurant has a cozy and inviting atmosphere and features an open kitchen where guests can watch their food being prepared. Their menu features a range of dishes, including fresh seafood, meats, and vegetables.

12. Nostra Restaurant 🍴

Nostra Restaurant is a modern and stylish restaurant located in downtown Reykjavik. The restaurant offers a range of dishes that draw inspiration from both Icelandic and international cuisine. Their menu features fresh seafood, meats, and vegetables, and they are known for their creative and innovative dishes.

13. Apotek Restaurant 🍴

Apotek Restaurant is located in a historic building in downtown Reykjavik and offers a unique and elegant dining experience. The restaurant is known for its use of local and seasonal ingredients and its creative and inventive dishes. Some of their standout dishes include the Icelandic lamb with smoked onion and the pan-fried cod with celeriac purée.

FAQs

1. What is the best time of year to visit Iceland for food?

The summer months, from June to August, are the best time to visit Iceland for food. This is when the country’s many food festivals and farmers’ markets take place, and when you can sample the freshest local produce.

2. Is Icelandic cuisine expensive?

Icelandic cuisine can be expensive, especially if you’re dining at high-end restaurants. However, there are also many budget-friendly options available, such as food trucks and casual eateries.

3. What is fermented shark?

Fermented shark is a traditional Icelandic dish that is made from the meat of the Greenland shark. The shark is buried in sand for several months to ferment, giving it a pungent odor and flavor.

4. Can I find vegetarian or vegan options in Icelandic restaurants?

Yes, many Icelandic restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options. However, it’s always best to check the menu beforehand to ensure there are options available.

5. What is rye bread?

Rye bread is a traditional Icelandic bread that is made from rye flour, water, and a small amount of sugar. The bread is typically baked in a pot buried in the ground, giving it a unique flavor and texture.

6. What is the traditional Icelandic Christmas meal?

The traditional Icelandic Christmas meal is typically a platter of smoked and cured meats, including lamb, ham, and ptarmigan. The meal is served with potatoes, beets, and other vegetables, as well as a variety of desserts.