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Top 35 Restaurants in Iceland

Top 35 Restaurants in Iceland

Arnar Tómas
By Arnar Tómas
Verified expert

A plate of hakarl and dried fish for tasting.

The best restaurants in Iceland range from Reykjavik’s acclaimed fine dining spots to cozy family-run kitchens in the countryside. This guide brings together top recommendations across all regions of Iceland, ordered by popularity, so you can enjoy authentic flavors wherever your travels take you.

Iceland’s dining scene is as exciting as its adventures, with options ranging from the Michelin-starred restaurants in Reykjavik to family-run kitchens in small towns. This guide highlights the best places to eat across the country, whether you’re planning a special night out in the capital or a quick stop during your self-drive journey along the Ring Road.

Iceland Restaurants: Trends, Tips, and Key Takeaways

  • Many top restaurants in Iceland are conveniently located near hotels or landmarks, making it easy to combine sightseeing with meals.

  • Reykjavik offers the highest concentration of fine dining and international cuisine, while smaller towns feature cozy, locally inspired eateries that showcase regional ingredients.

  • Traditional dishes like lamb, Arctic char, and skyr remain central, but modern chefs are increasingly blending global techniques to create unique interpretations.

  • Tasting menus and small plates are popular even outside high-end restaurants, allowing travelers to sample a variety of flavors in one meal.

  • Dining costs range from casual and affordable options to premium fine dining, with Reykjavik generally skewing higher and regional towns offering more budget-friendly experiences.

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Top 10 Restaurants in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a culinary hub where Icelandic ingredients meet international creativity. This list showcases the top restaurants in the capital, from fine dining to casual spots, so you can experience the best of Reykjavik’s food scene.

10. Grillmarket

$$$ | Icelandic, Grill, Seafood | Has vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options

The Grillmarket in Reykjavi­k is ideal for special occasions, dates, or a memorable dinner in the capital

The Grill Market is a top choice in Reykjavik for those seeking high-quality Icelandic cuisine with a focus on grilled dishes. The restaurant partners with local farmers to ensure fresh ingredients, offering popular dishes such as lamb chops, rib-eye steaks, burgers, and an array of seafood options. Sharing menus are available for larger groups, allowing everyone at the table to sample the restaurant’s best offerings. Grillmarket is ideal for special occasions, dates, or a memorable dinner in the capital.

Quick Facts About The Grillmarket

9. Sól Restaurant

$$$$ | New Nordic, Scandinavian, Farm-to-Table | Has vegetarian-friendly and vegan options 

Dining tables at Sól Restaurant with glass floor over greenhouse greens.Located in a glass-walled greenhouse in Hafnarfjordur, about 20 minutes from downtown Reykjavik, Sól Restaurant offers one of Iceland’s most memorable dining experiences. The restaurant specializes in New Nordic fine dining with seasonal, farm-to-table dishes such as Icelandic lamb, Arctic char, and inventive vegetarian plates. Guests enjoy ocean views, creative cocktails, and an elegant atmosphere that makes it ideal for a special occasion or romantic night out.

Quick Facts About Sól Restaurant

8. Kol

$$$$ | Modern Icelandic, International, Seafood | Has vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options

Kol Restaurant is a stylish restaurant located in downtown Reykjavik close to Hallgrimskirkja Church.

Kol is a modern fine dining restaurant just around the corner from Hallgrimskirkja Church, offering high-quality, creative dishes in a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. Its signature highlights include Icelandic lamb fillet, praised for its distinctive grass-fed taste, alongside excellent vegetarian and vegan options. Kol is also known for its inventive cocktail menu and is popular for both dinner and Reykjavik’s increasingly popular bottomless brunch.

Quick Facts About Kol

7. Litli Barinn

$$ | Icelandic, Small Plates, Bar Food | Has vegetarian-friendly and vegan options

Enjoy the cozy atmosphere at Litli Barinn after a day of exploring.Litli Barinn is a cozy bar and restaurant, conveniently located next to the Local 101 hotel, perfect for happy hour, dinner, or a relaxed evening in Reykjavik. Highlights include Icelandic lamb sausage and melted brie with honey, pistachio, and rosemary, alongside a wide selection of cocktails and wines. The restaurant emphasizes Icelandic culture, playing music exclusively by local artists and using regional ingredients whenever possible.

Quick Facts About Litli Barinn

6. Tres Locos

$$ | Mexican, Latin American | Has vegetarian-friendly and vegan options

Tres Locos is a fun restaurant to go with a group of friends to enjoy great food and colorful cocktails.

Tres Locos is a vibrant Mexican restaurant near Ingolfstorg Square. Known for its lively atmosphere and authentic Mexican dishes, Tres Locos offers some welcome Mesoamerican warmth to Iceland's cool climate. The menu features tacos, enchiladas, plantains, and fresh guacamole, alongside creative international dishes such as wagyu taquitos (which uses genuine A5 wagyu from Japan). Tres Locos also offers a range of Mexican-inspired cocktails, making it a perfect spot for dinner or a fun night out with friends.

Quick Facts About Tres Locos

5. Fish Market

$$$$ | Seafood, Icelandic, Japanese-inspired | Has vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free options

The Fish Market is a great place for a special night out.

The Fish Market is one of Reykjavik’s premier seafood restaurants, offering inventive dishes that blend Icelandic ingredients with Japanese culinary influences. Signature offerings include lightly salted cod, sushi platters, langoustine, and the ever-changing fish of the day. The sleek, contemporary décor creates a sophisticated dining atmosphere, complemented by Uppi Bar upstairs, which features one of the largest wine selections in Iceland. 

Quick Facts About The Fish Market

4. Tapas Barinn

$$ |Spanish, Icelandic-inspired tapas | Has vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options

Tapas Barinn is a Spanish restaurant in Reykjavik which offer tapas courses inspired by Icelandic and Spanish cuisine.

Tapas Barinn has been a staple of Reykjavik’s dining scene since the early 2000s, offering over 70 dishes inspired by Spanish tapas and made with fresh Icelandic ingredients. Diners can choose a la carte or enjoy curated menus, such as the “Icelandic Gourmet Feast” or “Journey into the Unknown,” which showcase a mix of fish, meat, and vegetable dishes in tapas style. The lively atmosphere, creative menu, and friendly service make Tapas Barinn a popular choice for both locals and visitors seeking a fun and flavorful dinner experience.

Quick Facts About Tapas Barinn

3. Apotek Kitchen + Bar

$$$ | Icelandic, European, International | Has vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options

Apotek Restaurant in a fun place to go for dinner, conveniently located in downtown Reykjavik.

Apotek Kitchen + Bar is a stylish restaurant located in a historic building in central Reykjavik, named after the city’s first apothecary. The menu features high-quality dishes such as Icelandic rack of lamb, tiger shrimp salad, dry-aged steaks, and Arctic char served on Himalayan salt blocks. Creative cocktails inspired by the apothecary’s heritage, including “Painkillers,” “Stimulants,” and “Placebo” for non-alcoholic options, complement the dining experience. Conveniently connected to the Apotek Hotel, visitors can enjoy easy access to the restaurant when staying in the city.

Quick Facts About Apotek Kitchen + Bar

2. Monkeys

$$$ | Nikkei (Peruvian-Japanese fusion), Small Plates | Has vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options

Monkeys restaurant in Reykjavik, providing delicious food inspired by Japanese and Peruvian cuisine.

Monkeys is a fun and trendy restaurant known for its colorful décor, creative cocktails, and small plates inspired by Nikkei cuisine, a blend of Peruvian and Japanese culinary traditions. Notable dishes include ceviche, sushi, and anticuchos (grilled skewers). The tasting menu offers a curated journey through the best of Nikkei flavors, ending with an impressive dessert selection. After dinner, guests can either take a photo on the playful champagne train, modeled after a 1920s railcar, or enjoy drinks at Kokteilbarinn, the restaurant’s own bar.

Quick Facts About Monkeys

1. Dill

$$$$ | Icelandic, New Nordic, Farm-to-Table | Has vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free options

Dill Restaurant is a great restaurant in Reykjavik with emphasis on tasty food and sustainability

Dill is Iceland’s pioneering fine dining restaurant, becoming the country’s first Michelin-starred establishment and remaining one of only three Icelandic restaurants to achieve this honor. The restaurant offers five- and seven-course seasonal tasting menus that change regularly, highlighting the freshest local ingredients and innovative New Nordic techniques. The minimalist, elegant setting complements the refined dishes, creating a sophisticated and memorable dining experience.

Quick Facts About Dill

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Top 5 Restaurants in South Iceland

Iceland's South Coast is one of the country's most popular regions to visit, with iconic sights such as the black sand beach of Reynisfjara and the waterfalls of Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss. Over the years, many great restaurants have emerged on the South Coast, becoming significant attractions on their own.

5. Fjöruborðið (Stokkseyri)

$$$ | Seafood, Icelandic | Has gluten-free options

Fjöruborðið is a go-to place for langoustine in Iceland.

Fjöruborðið is a charming seaside restaurant in Stokkseyri, famous for its langoustine dishes. Many visitors make the 50-minute drive from Reykjavik just to eat here, and if you’re exploring the South Coast, the short detour is worth it. The signature lobster soup comes brimming with rich flavor and generous portions of tender langoustine tails, while garlic-butter langoustine and fresh seafood plates round out the menu.

Quick Facts About Fjöruborðið

4. Rauða Húsið (Eyrarbakki)

$$$ | Seafood, Icelandic | Has vegetarian-friendly, gluten-free, and vegan options

Rauða Húsið is a fine-dining restaurant housed in a century-old building in Eyrarbakki.

Rauða Húsið, or “The Red House,” is a fine-dining restaurant housed in a century-old building in the historic seaside village of Eyrarbakki. Its signature Lobster Feast includes lobster soup, langoustine tails, and dessert, but the menu also features other Icelandic specialties such as lamb mains and non-seafood options. Known for its warm atmosphere and use of fresh ingredients from the nearby town of Thorlakshofn, Rauða Húsið is one of the South Coast’s best places to enjoy Icelandic cuisine in a memorable setting.

Quick Facts About Rauða Húsið

3. Næs (Westman Islands)

$$ - $$$ |Modern Icelandic, Nordic | Has vegetarian-friendly and vegan options

The facade of Næs restaurant in the Westman Islands, featuring a green and yellow wall with a table and chairs.

Næs in the Westman Islands offers a menu crafted with genuine care and creativity, designed for sharing and creating a true sense of community at the table. Guests can enjoy inventive dishes alongside a thoughtfully curated selection of cocktails and natural wines, all served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

As the sister restaurant to the renowned Slippurinn, which closed in September 2025 as its head chef launches an exciting new venture at Laugaras Lagoon, Næs proudly carries on the legacy of innovative Icelandic cuisine. Today, it stands on its own reputation, delighting diners with exceptional food and a memorable dining experience.

Quick Facts About Næs

2. Fröken Selfoss (Selfoss)

$$$ | Icelandic, Seafood, International | Has vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options

Fröken Selfoss is an inviting restaurant within the revamped old town center of Selfoss.

Fröken Selfoss is a stylish addition to the new old town center of Selfoss, offering a “suitably fancy” dining experience that blends sophistication with a laid-back atmosphere. Popular mains include salted cod, seafood pasta, and traditional Icelandic meat soup, while the bar has earned a reputation for serving some of the South Coast’s best cocktails. Desserts such as brownie or rhubarb-and-apple pie pair well with a post-dinner visit to Groovís, the retro-inspired ice cream shop run by the same owners.

Quick Facts About Fröken Selfoss

1. Black Crust Pizzeria

$$–$$$ | Pizza, Italian, Contemporary | Has vegetarian-friendly and vegan options

Black Crust Pizzeria is a great place to relax after a day of exploring.Black Crust Pizzeria in Vik is famous for its striking charcoal-infused pizza crust, inspired by the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara nearby. The crust’s subtle smokiness perfectly complements inventive toppings, making this one of Iceland’s most distinctive pizzerias. The restaurant’s stylish interior, with natural wood accents and lush greenery, provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Quick Facts About Black Crust Pizzeria

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Top 4 Restaurants in West Iceland

There is much to see in West Iceland. Many of the settlements here are incredibly charming and offer great food if you know where to look.

4. Settlement Center Restaurant (Borgarnes)

$$ - $$$ |  Icelandic / Café fare | Has vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options

The Settlement Center restaurant in Borgarnes, Iceland, with stunning mountains in the background.Part of the popular Settlement Center Museum in Borgarnes, this restaurant serves homestyle Icelandic comfort food in a cozy setting. Favorites include hearty lamb soup, seafood stew, and freshly baked bread, along with lighter salads and vegetarian options. It’s an excellent spot to refuel before or after exploring the museum’s exhibitions, and its welcoming atmosphere makes it equally suited for families and solo travelers on the road through West Iceland.

Quick Facts About Settlement Center Restaurant

3. Englendingavík (Borgarnes)

$$–$$$ | Icelandic / Seafood | Has vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options

The warm and cozy interior of Englendingavík restaurant in Borgarnes, West Iceland.

Englendingavík, or “Englishman’s Cove,” is a historic guesthouse and restaurant in Borgarnes, West Iceland's largest town. Housed in a charming timber building by the sea, it offers fresh Icelandic dishes like plokkfiskur (fish stew), lamb, and locally caught fish. The seaside terrace makes it one of the most atmospheric dining spots in town, where guests can enjoy stunning fjord views while savoring seasonal, locally inspired meals. For a full experience, you can also stay at Englendingavík and enjoy its cozy accommodations by the water.

Quick Facts About Englendingavik

2. Rock ’n’ Troll Bistro & Café (Fossatún)

$$ | Icelandic / International comfort food | Has vegetarian-friendly and vegan options

Cozy interior of Rock ’n’ Troll Bistro & Café, highlighting its unique ambiance.
Rock ’n’ Troll Bistro & Café is one of Iceland’s quirkiest dining experiences, located by the scenic Fossatun Waterfalls. Part of the famous Troll Park, it blends hearty Icelandic comfort food with a playful rock ’n’ roll theme. Expect lamb stew, burgers, and homemade cakes, served alongside troll stories and music memorabilia. Families and travelers alike will enjoy the offbeat atmosphere, and those who want to linger longer can book a stay at Fossatun Country Hotel for the full experience.

Quick Facts About Rock ’n’ Troll Bistro & Café

1. Húsafell Restaurant (Húsafell)

$$ - $$$ | Modern Nordic / Icelandic | Has vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options

Interior view of Husafell Restaurant, a top dining spot in Iceland, featuring elegant decor and a cozy atmosphere.Húsafell Restaurant offers refined Nordic cuisine inspired by the surrounding landscapes of glaciers, lava fields, and forests. The menu showcases seasonal Icelandic ingredients in creative dishes such as Arctic char, lamb, and wild herbs foraged locally. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame stunning views of the countryside, making it a dining experience as memorable as the food itself. For a full retreat in nature, you can also book a stay at Hotel Húsafell and enjoy world-class meals just steps from your room.

Quick Facts About Húsafell Restaurant

Top 5 Restaurants in Snaefellsnes Peninsula

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature” for its diverse landscapes of lava fields, glaciers, and fishing villages, also offers a surprisingly rich food scene. From harborfront seafood houses to cozy hotel restaurants with glacier views, dining here is as memorable as the sights.

5. Snjófell Restaurant (Arnarstapi)

$$ – $$$ | Contemporary American, Icelandic | Has some vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options

A picturesque view of Snjófell Restaurant with a majestic mountain in the background, known for its exceptional cuisine.Snjófell Restaurant is a welcoming eatery located at the Arnarstapi Center, near Snaefellsjokull National Park. The restaurant emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering dishes like seafood soup, lamb, and vegetarian options. Its cozy interior and panoramic ocean views make it ideal for unwinding after a day of hiking the peninsula’s trails or visiting nearby landmarks such as the Arnarstapi Cliffs, Londrangar Rock Formations, and the village of Hellnar.

Quick Facts About Snjófell Restaurant

4. Sker Restaurant (Olafsvik)

$$ – $$$ | Seafood / Icelandic comfort food | Has vegetarian-friendly options and a Kid’s menu

A beautifully arranged plate of food with a glass of wine on a table at Sker Restaurant, one of Iceland's finest.

Sker Restaurant, located in the fishing village of Olafsvik, combines stunning views of Breidafjordur Bay with a menu that highlights Icelandic seafood and international favorites. Guests can enjoy fresh fish dishes, burgers, or steaks in a bright, modern dining room overlooking the harbor. With its relaxed atmosphere, versatile menu, and dedicated children's options, it's a convenient and satisfying stop for anyone exploring the north coast of Snaefellsnes.

Quick Facts About Sker Restaurant

3. Narfeyrarstofa (Stykkisholmur)

$$ – $$$ | Traditional Icelandic / Seafood | Has vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options

Dining at Narfeyrarstofa provides beautiful views of Breidafjordur Bay.Narfeyrarstofa is a beloved restaurant in Stykkisholmur, located in one of the town’s oldest timber houses overlooking Breidafjordur Bay. Its menu highlights traditional Icelandic flavors with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, from succulent lamb and seafood to homemade desserts. The intimate, historic setting paired with attentive service makes it a favorite for both casual lunches and special dinners, giving travelers an authentic taste of Snaefellsnes hospitality.

Quick Facts About Narfeyrarstofa

2. Sjávarpakkhúsið (Stykkishólmur)

$$ – $$$ | Seafood / Icelandic | Has gluten-free options

A beautiful spot inside Sjávarpakkhúsið, featuring a wall full of pictures, wooden tables, and cozy benches.

Sjávarpakkhúsið, or “Seafood Packing House,” is one of Stykkisholmur’s most iconic restaurants, set in a beautifully preserved building by the harbor. Known for its creative seafood dishes, the menu features highlights like blue mussels in white wine, scallops, and hearty fish soup, all crafted from the freshest local catch. Guests can enjoy craft beers or wine while overlooking the bustling harbor, making this cozy yet refined spot a must-visit on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Quick Facts About Sjávarpakkhúsið

1. Bjargarsteinn Mathús (Grundarfjordur)

$$ – $$$ | Icelandic, International | Has vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options

The interior of Bjargarsteinn Mathús, featuring beautifully set tables.

Bjargarsteinn Mathús is a rustic yet elegant restaurant in the seaside village of Grundarfjordur, housed in a century-old timber building relocated from Akranes. Its ever-changing menu blends international inspiration with Icelandic ingredients, offering dishes like local lamb, fish, and creative seasonal plates. With panoramic views of Kirkjufell Mountain and the surrounding fjord, the dining experience here is as memorable as the food, making it one of the top culinary stops in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Quick Facts About Bjargarsteinn Mathús

Top 5 Restaurants in North Iceland

North Iceland is home to stunning natural areas and historical sites. Akureyri, the unofficial capital of the region, acts as a gateway to these sites, as well as a slew of fantastic restaurants strewn across settlements of varying sizes.

5. Jarlstofa Restaurant (Saudarkrokur)

$$–$$$ | Icelandic / European | Has vegetarian-friendly options and a Kid’s menu

Jarlstofa Restaurant is an excellent spot in Saudarkrokur for a nice Icelandic mealJarlstofa Restaurant, tucked inside Iceland’s oldest hotel, Tindastóll, is a cozy restaurant where historic charm meets modern Icelandic cuisine. Diners can expect changing two- or three-course menus made with local ingredients, plus vegetarian and children’s options. The antique décor creates a warm, old-world atmosphere, making Jarlstofa one of the most memorable dining stops in North Iceland.

Quick Facts About Jarlstofa Restaurant

4. Vogafjos Farm Resort (Lake Myvatn)

$$–$$$ | Icelandic, Farm-to-table | Has vegetarian-friendly options; some vegan and gluten-free choices

Dinner and a show at Vogafjos.Set on a family farm by Lake Myvatn, Vogafjós offers authentic farm-to-table dining in a converted cowshed where guests can peek at the resident cows through viewing windows. The menu includes smoked lamb, smoked trout, homemade cheese and pastries, Geysir rye bread, and fresh seasonal dishes. It’s both a dining spot and cultural experience — especially if you also book a room at Vogafjos.

Quick Facts About Vogafjos Farm Resort

3. Strikið (Akureyri)

$$–$$$ | Icelandic / International fusion | Has vegetarian-friendly, vegan, gluten-free options and a Kid’s menu

Strikið has phenomenal views of Akureyri.

Strikið, perched on the top floor of a central Akureyri building, combines Icelandic and international flavors with panoramic fjord and mountain views. Menu highlights include hearty lamb, seafood, and creative vegetarian dishes, served in generous portions at fair prices. On sunny days, the outdoor terrace transforms dinner into one of Akureyri’s most scenic dining experiences.

Quick Facts About Strikið

  • Hours: 

    • 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM on Monday through Thursday

    • 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM on Friday

    • 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday

    • Happy Hour is from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM daily 

  • Reservations: Recommended, especially on weekends and during peak season. Book your table at Strikið here.

  • Google Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars

  • Address: Skipagata 14, 5th floor, 600 Akureyri, Iceland. See directions for Strikið on Google Maps.

2. Rub23 (Akureyri)

$$$ | Seafood / Asian fusion | Has vegetarian-friendly, vegan, gluten-free options and a Kid’s menu

Rub23 is an excellent seafood restaurant in Akureyri.

Rub23 is one of Akureyri’s most acclaimed restaurants, blending Icelandic seafood with Asian flair, especially sushi and spice-rubbed fish and meats. The stylish dining room and creative cocktail bar make it a go-to for both locals and visitors. With a well-earned reputation and limited seating, booking ahead is essential.

Quick Facts About Rub23

1. Siglunes (Siglufjordur)

$$–$$$ | Mediterranean / Moroccan-inspired | Has vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options

Hotel Siglunes offers a blend of vintage and modern decorations.

Siglunes Restaurant, housed inside Hotel Siglunes, brings Moroccan and Mediterranean flair to the northernmost town on Iceland’s mainland, Siglufjordur. The chef’s North African background shines through in dishes like lamb tagine, seafood tagine, and seasonal vegetable tagines. Its intimate, elegant setting and glowing reviews make Siglunes one of North Iceland’s most unique culinary destinations.

Quick Facts About Siglunes

  • Hours: 

    • Open for dinner daily from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM 

    • Lunch served from 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays (February to July). Closed for lunch from August through January, except for pre-booked groups (reserve at least one day in advance).

  • Reservations: Recommended for dinner. Required for groups

  • Google Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars

  • Address: Laekjargata 10, 580 Siglufjordur, Iceland. Make your way to Siglunes via Google Maps.

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Top 6 Restaurants in East Iceland

The Eastfjords are a lesser-visited region of Iceland that is nevertheless full of natural beauty, with serene fjords and lovely waterfalls. But while it's easy to find places to visit for your travel itinerary, a very important question remains! Where do you find a delicious meal during your days of exploring?

6. Berunes Restaurant (Djupivogur)

$$–$$$ | Icelandic / Seasonal | Has vegan and vegetarian-friendly options available

In summer, the Berunes Restaurant offers a unique culinary experience surrounded by nature.Berunes Restaurant is set inside the charming countryside hostel near Djupivogur, Berunes HI Hostel. It provides a seasonal dining experience with menus that showcase local, summer ingredients from land and sea. Guests at this countryside hostel can enjoy a tranquil, fjord-view meal with fresh trout, lamb, seasonal produce, and house-made breads. 

Quick Facts About Berunes Restaurant

5. Gloð Restaurant (Egilsstadir)

$$–$$$ | Mediterranean / Icelandic fusion | Has vegetarian-friendly options and a Kid’s menu

Cozy interior of Glod Restaurant in Egilsstadir, featuring warm lighting and wooden furniture.

Located inside Hotel Valaskjalf, Glóð Restaurant offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with a menu blending Mediterranean influence and Icelandic ingredients. Expect dishes like fresh pasta, fish, steaks, and Roman-style pizzas, all crafted with care. Its central location in Egilsstadir makes it a convenient and delicious stop while exploring East Iceland.

Quick Facts About Gloð Restaurant

4. Skaftfell Bistro (Seydisfjordur)

$$–$$$ | Icelandic / International | Has vegetarian-friendly and vegan options

Skaftfell Bistro has a charming and cozy atmosphere.

Skaftfell Bistro, part of the Skaftfell Art Center in the village of Seydisfjordur, is housed in a historic 1907 timber building. The bistro serves a creative menu of hearty Icelandic and international dishes, small plates, pizzas, and desserts, using locally sourced produce from land and sea. Its casual yet vibrant atmosphere, art-center setting, and rotating menu make it a must-stop when visiting the colorful fjord town.

Quick Facts About Skaftfell Bistro

3. Norð Austur - Sushi & Bar (Seydisfjordur)

$$$ | Japanese / Sushi | Has vegetarian-friendly and some gluten-free options

The Norð Austur restaurant has a cozy interior.Norð Austur delivers world-class sushi in the remote fjords of East Iceland, using the freshest fish sourced directly from local fishermen. Guests can enjoy sushi rolls, nigiri, gyoza, and tempura, paired with sake or Japanese whiskey. Its surprising location and outstanding quality have made it one of East Iceland’s most talked-about restaurants.

Quick Facts About Norð Austur

2. Randulff's Sea House (Eskifjordur)

$$–$$$ | Traditional Icelandic / Seafood | Limited vegetarian-friendly options

Randulff's Sea House is a charming Eastfjord restaurant in a preserved old sea-house..Randulff’s Sea House is housed in a beautifully preserved old sea-house built in 1890, located on the shores of Eskifjordur. It offers hearty Icelandic cuisine with fresh local fish, reindeer, hakarl (fermented shark), dried fish, pickled herring, and more, in a charming maritime-museum atmosphere. With museum artefacts as part of its décor, plus the fjord views, it delivers both food and culture.

Quick Facts About Randulff's Sea House

  • Hours: 

    • Summer (June through September): Open for lunch and dinner daily from 11:30 PM – 9:00 PM 

    • Winter: Open only for pre-booked groups or special events

  • Reservations: Recommended, especially for dinner and during busy season

  • Google Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars

  • Address: Strandgotu 120, 735 Eskifjordur. See how to get to Randulff’s Sea House on Google Maps.

1. Nielsen Restaurant (Egilsstadir)

$$–$$$ | Scandinavian / Icelandic | Has vegetarian-friendly options

Nielsen Restaurant is located in the oldest house in Egilsstadir.

Housed in Egilsstadir’s oldest building, Nielsen Restaurant is the crown jewel of East Iceland’s dining scene. Run by a husband-and-wife duo, it serves a seasonal menu crafted from the region’s freshest ingredients, including local lamb, fish, and garden produce. With cozy interiors, warm hospitality, and outstanding reviews, Nielsen is a must-visit for travelers exploring the Eastfjords.

Quick Facts About Nielsen Restaurant

Dining in Iceland: What You Need To Know

Here are answers to the most common questions travelers ask before eating out in Iceland.

Is it expensive to eat out in Iceland?

Yes, eating out in Iceland is generally expensive compared to most countries. A main course at a mid-range restaurant typically costs 3,000–8,000 ISK (25–66 USD), while fine dining can be much higher. Budget-conscious travelers often save by mixing in food halls, bakeries, and grocery stores.

How much does a meal cost in Iceland?

Casual meals like burgers or pizza cost 2,000–5,000 ISK (15–35 USD). A sit-down dinner at a mid-range restaurant is usually 3,000–8,000 ISK per person (25–66 USD). A three-course dinner for two in Reykjavik averages 14,000–20,000 ISK (114–160 USD). Fine dining tasting menus can exceed 12,000–18,000 ISK (98–147 USD) per person.

Is tipping expected at restaurants in Iceland?

No, tipping is not expected in Iceland. Service charges are included in the bill, and staff are paid fair wages. While not customary, rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% is appreciated for exceptional service. In more casual spots, you may see tip jars, but tipping is not required.

What food is Iceland most famous for?

A bowl of skyr with fruits and topped with a rice cracker.Iceland is famous for fresh lamb, seafood, and dairy. Must-try dishes include lamb soup, grilled Arctic char, langoustine, skyr, and the iconic Reykjavik hot dog. More adventurous eaters may sample fermented shark or other unappetizing Icelandic food, though most visitors stick to modern interpretations of traditional cuisine.

What are typical restaurant opening hours in Iceland?

Restaurants in Reykjavik and larger towns usually open for lunch around 11:30 AM–2:30 PM and for dinner from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM–11:00 PM. Cafés and bakeries open earlier for breakfast. In smaller towns, restaurants may close earlier, so planning ahead is recommended.

Are restaurants in Iceland open on Sundays or holidays?

Yes, many restaurants in Reykjavik and tourist areas open on Sundays and holidays, though some smaller-town venues may close or operate limited hours. Only select restaurants open during Christmas and New Year, and these often require reservations well in advance.

Does Iceland have Michelin-starred restaurants?

Yes. There are now several Michelin-listed restaurants in Iceland. Dill in Reykjavik was the first to earn a Michelin Star, pioneering Iceland’s fine-dining scene. ÓX, an intimate chef’s table in Reykjavik, and Moss, located at The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, have also received Michelin Stars. In addition, other Reykjavik venues hold Michelin recognitions such as the Bib Gourmand, Green Star, or Michelin Plate, reflecting the country’s growing international culinary reputation.

Enjoy the Best Places To Eat in Iceland

A serving of langoustine, bread, and vegetables on a fish-shaped plate.Dining in Iceland is as much about the setting as the flavors. Each region has its own character, shaped by landscapes, traditions, and the people who live there. Exploring these differences is part of what makes eating your way across the country so rewarding.

Reykjavik leads with variety, offering everything from upscale dining to relaxed bites. South Iceland adds comfort along the Ring Road, while West Iceland and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula bring history and dramatic scenery to the table. North Iceland shines with farm-to-table experiences and a family-friendly atmosphere, and East Iceland rounds out the journey with hidden kitchens and meals rooted in local traditions.

No matter where you travel, Iceland’s regions serve more than food. Each meal delivers a true taste of place and a deeper connection to the landscapes around you. Along the way, you’ll experience authentic dishes and even learn how to recreate delicious Icelandic recipes at home, bringing the flavors of your journey back with you.

Have you dined in any of the restaurants we mentioned above? Did we miss your favorite one? What is your opinion about restaurants in Iceland? Let us know in the comments below!

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Top things to do in Iceland

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Explore an Ice Cave

Explore an Ice Cave

Find the Northern Lights

Find the Northern Lights

Go on a Road Trip

Go on a Road Trip

Do the Golden Circle

Do the Golden Circle

Visit the Blue Lagoon

Visit the Blue Lagoon

See the Glacier Lagoon

See the Glacier Lagoon

South Coast Tours

South Coast Tours

Visit Reykjavik

Visit Reykjavik