Located right on the edge of the Old Harbor of Reykjavik, this cafe and bar offers not only freshly prepared dishes but also panoramic scenery that overlooks the boats and bay.
Start your day here with a delicious breakfast before exploring the city, or stop by to warm up after going on a whale watching tour from the Reykjavik Harbor. Reykjavik Rost combines a great location with flavorful dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
A Warm Welcome in Reykjavik Rost’s Historic Fishing Shed
Step up to the bar to place your order and settle the bill.
We visited Reykjavik Rost as a party of two on a particularly windy afternoon, and it turned out to be the perfect place to unwind and take in the view of the crashing waves along the waterfront.
Housed in one of the harbor’s original baiting sheds from the 1800s, the cafe carries a strong sense of local history. These sheds were once bustling workspaces where fishermen prepared their lines and hooks for the day ahead.
Today, Reykjavik Rost has thoughtfully transformed this historic space into a warm, welcoming cafe. Its harborfront seating offers a cozy spot, ideal for savoring comforting meals in a relaxed setting.
Inside, there’s plenty of space for everyone, from solo travelers and couples to families with small children and groups of friends.
Make sure to snag these cozy seats by the fireplace for a perfect spot to unwind with a warm drink and good company.
The seating is well laid out, featuring a mix of cozy nooks and larger tables that create a relaxed atmosphere. A softly glowing imitation fireplace adds an extra layer of warmth and ambiance, especially on colder days.
Reykjavik Rost also offers free Wi-Fi, making it a convenient stop for remote workers or travelers catching up on trip planning.
Additionally, it’s thoughtfully designed for accessibility, with step-free entry, wide walkways, and a layout that works well for wheelchair users or anyone with mobility needs.
From nearly every seat, you can see stunning views of Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, with fishing boats bobbing gently in the water and Mount Esja rising in the distance.
As one of the best cafes in Reykjavik, Reykjavik Rost stands out not just for its scenic location but for the welcoming atmosphere and details that give it a distinctly local charm.
What To Eat at Reykjavik Rost: Cozy Comfort Food and Inventive Icelandic Drinks
The soup of the day (Hungarian Beef Soup and Sourdough Bread at Reykjavik Rost) — hearty, warming, and perfect for a chilly Icelandic day.
We stepped into Reykjavik Rost cold and hungry, and the cozy, no-fuss menu immediately caught our eye.
Before we even sat down, the staff greeted us with a warm welcome. They were easy to talk to and happy to walk us through a few house favorites that matched exactly what we were craving.
We started with the Hungarian beef soup, a rich, comforting bowl that warmed us right up. It came with a thick slice of fresh sourdough from Bjorns Bakari, a beloved local bakery known for traditional Icelandic breads. The slice was soft, slightly tangy, and perfect for soaking up the broth.
Smoked Salmon Avocado Toast at Reykjavik Rost — light, fresh, and topped with a generous portion of Icelandic salmon.
We also ordered the Icelandic smoked salmon on avocado toast, a lighter but satisfying option. The toast was topped with creamy avocado, fresh greens, and a generous layer of high-quality local salmon. It was refreshing, well-balanced, and beautifully plated.
As coffee lovers, we couldn’t pass up the drink menu. We ordered an iced blueberry latte and a cappuccino.
The classic cappuccino was bold and smooth, a perfect match for the weather. But the iced blueberry latte was the surprise star. It was beautifully layered with organic Icelandic blueberry juice and fresh-brewed coffee, topped with whipped cream and blueberry powder. The result was sweet, creamy, and uniquely Icelandic.
For dessert, we ordered a couple of local pastries, flaky and comforting, with just the right amount of indulgence to end the meal on a high note.
We also tried the Northern Lights Cocktail, which was both flavorful and visually stunning.
The drink featured layered, aurora-inspired colors and a glowing ice cube, adding a whimsical twist. It was refreshing, slightly sweet, and fun. The cocktail was an unexpected highlight that felt perfectly suited to Reykjavik Rost’s cozy yet creative vibe.
Here is a snapshot of our top recommendations from the menu, each one well worth a try:
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Hungarian beef soup with sourdough: Rich, warming, and deeply satisfying on a cold day.
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Smoked salmon avocado toast: Fresh, healthy, and topped with a generous serving of local salmon.
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Iced Icelandic blueberry latte: Unique and indulgent, made with organic Icelandic blueberry juice and local cream.
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Classic cappuccino: Robust and smooth, perfect for warming up close to the fireplace.
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Local pastries: Flaky and flavorful; a great option for dessert or an afternoon snack.
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Northern Lights Cocktail: A creative, visually stunning drink with layered colors and a glowing ice cube.
Reykjavik Rost Menu, Opening Times, & Availability
Reykjavik Rost is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM, making it easy to stop by before or after sightseeing, local tours, or a walk along the harbor.
The menu provides options throughout the day, with items available at different times:
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Breakfast & Brunch Options: From opening until 12 PM
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Soups, Sandwiches, & Toasts: Available all day
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Pastries & Desserts: While supplies last — go early for the best selection
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Coffee, Tea, & Specialty Lattes: Anytime during open hours
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Beer, Wine, & Cocktails: From 11 AM, following local alcohol regulations
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Happy Hour: Daily from 3 PM to 7 PM, with discounts on select beer and wine
Vegetarian options are available, and the staff are happy to accommodate dietary needs like gluten-free preferences — just ask when ordering.
For updates and special offerings, visit the Reykjavik Rost official website before your visit.
Getting to Reykjavik Rost: Location, Directions, & Nearby Attractions
You’ll find Reykjavik Rost at Geirsgata 5c, situated in Reykjavik’s bustling Old Harbor District. The cafe is within easy walking distance of some of the city’s top cultural sites and scenic spots, including:
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Reykjavik Maritime Museum: Just around the corner from the cafe, this museum offers a fascinating look into Iceland’s fishing history and maritime heritage.
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Harpa Concert Hall: About a 10-minute walk away, this striking glass building hosts concerts, exhibitions, and cultural events year-round.
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Laugavegur (Main Street): Easily reached on foot, Reykjavik’s central shopping street is filled with boutiques, bookshops, and homegrown design.
If you're heading out on a whale watching tour from the Old Harbor, Reykjavik Rost is one of the best places to warm up with a drink or grab a bite before or after your trip. It’s also a lovely break while strolling the scenic waterfront or exploring the harbor area on foot.
Stop by Reykjavik Rost While You’re by the Harbor
Reykjavik Rost strikes a thoughtful balance between cozy atmosphere and high-quality food. Set in a historic harbor building with a warm, inviting interior, it offers flavorful dishes and excellent coffee in a setting that feels both local and welcoming.
It’s also well-suited to everyone, including a space for solo travelers with laptops, couples seeking a quiet meal, or families who appreciate the relaxed vibe and easy accessibility.
The friendly staff are happy to answer questions or offer recommendations, and the scenic views make every visit feel a little more special. With daily happy hour and a menu that highlights local ingredients, Reykjavik Rost is a standout stop in the Old Harbor.
If you're fueling up before a tour, enjoying a quiet lunch by the water, or simply after a solid cup of coffee with a view, this cafe is well worth adding to your Reykjavik itinerary.
