Tapas Barinn has been Reykjavik's go-to Spanish restaurant, blending Spanish tapas tradition with fresh Icelandic ingredients. With more than 70 small courses and signature set menus like the Icelandic Gourmet Feast, it's a lively dinner spot tucked near Ingolfstorg Square.
Tapas barinn was opened in 2000 and quickly established itself as a mainstay in the ever-evolving restaurant scene in Reykjavik. With a wide variety of courses to choose from, it is the perfect place to enjoy a real feast in a cozy atmosphere. Book your table at Tapas Barinn before arriving, as it can get quite packed during busy hours.
Tapas Barinn is one of the dining spots featured in Guide to Iceland's VIP Club.
About Tapas Barinn
Tucked away in the basement of an old house near Ingolfstorg Square, you can easily spot it by the large bull sculpture just outside of it, with the Spanish flag painted on one side and the Icelandic flag painted on the other side.
When you come inside, you will hear the sounds of traditional Spanish flamenco music with a mix of modern Spanish pop and the clapping of the chef behind the counter as courses get ready to be served.
The interior really transports you away from the world's northernmost capital to a restaurant in a charming Spanish village, with its white stucco walls and wooden tables. The service is excellent, with the servers having no easy task in remembering the ingredients of over 70 small courses on the menu.
The Menu
The restaurant specializes in utilizing top-quality Icelandic ingredients to prepare Spanish tapas in a creative way. These delightful, bite-sized servings are perfect for tantalizing your taste buds through the evening. Each dish is promptly followed by another, ensuring a continuous culinary experience.
If you feel overwhelmed by the abundance of choices on the menu, we recommend the "Icelandic Gourmet Feast," which includes arctic char, puffin, and a delicious skyr-based dessert, giving you a taste of Icelandic staples cooked with Spanish flair.
For those who are feeling adventurous, you can put your fate into the hands of the excellent chefs at Tapas Barinn and go for the "Journey into the Unknown," which includes a little bit of everything, from fish to meat to veggies, but you never know what dish is coming next, which makes the anticipation between each course a little more exciting.
Late-Night Dining
Another thing about Tapas Barinn, which truly transports you to a different time zone, is that the kitchen is open later than most restaurants in Reykjavik. It closes at midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and is open until 11 PM during other days of the week, perfect for a late evening dinner.
If you want to give it a try, don't hesitate to book a table at Tapas Barinn today to ensure your spot.
