Located right on the edge of the Old Harbour of Reykjavik, this welcoming café and bar offers not only freshly prepared dishes but also panoramic windows that overlook the boats and bay.
Start your day here with a delicious breakfast before exploring the city, or stop in to warm up after going whale watching from the Reykjavik harbour. Reykjavík Röst combines a great location with flavorful dishes and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
A Warm Welcome in Reykjavík Röst’s Historic Fishing Shed
Make sure to snag these cozy seats by the fireplace for a perfect spot to unwind with a warm drink and good company.
We visited Reykjavík Röst as a party of two during a particularly windy afternoon, and it turned out to be the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the view of the waves by the harbour.
We learned that it is housed in one of the harbour’s original baiting sheds, dating back to the 1800s.
These fishing sheds once served as workspaces for local fishermen prepping lines and hooks. Today, Reykjavík Röst has transformed this heritage space into a cozy and welcoming café with harbourfront seating, ideal for watching the waves while enjoying warm, comforting food and drinks.
Step up to the bar to place your order and settle the bill.
Inside, there’s plenty of space for everyone, from solo travelers and couples to families with small children and groups of friends.
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.
Reykjavík Röst also offers free Wi-Fi, making it a convenient stop for remote workers or travelers catching up on trip planning.
It’s also fully accessible, with step-free entry, wide walkways, and spacious interior seating, making it a convenient and comfortable stop for all travelers, including those using wheelchairs or with other mobility needs.
From nearly every seat, you can see stunning views of Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, with fishing boats bobbing gently in the water and Mount Esja rising majestically in the distance.
As one of the best cafés in Reykjavik, Reykjavík Röst stands out not just for its scenic location but for the atmosphere and thoughtful design that make it feel like a local favorite.
What To Eat at Reykjavík Röst: Cozy Comfort Food and Inventive Icelandic Drinks
The soup of the day: Hungarian Beef Soup and Sourdough Bread at Reykjavík Röst - Hearty, warming, and perfect for a chilly Icelandic day.
We were cold and hungry when we stepped into Reykjavík Röst, and their cozy, no-fuss menu hit the spot right away.
The staff were welcoming and easy to talk to, happy to answer our questions and suggest what to try.
We started off with the Hungarian beef soup, a rich, comforting bowl that warmed us right up. It came with a thick slice of fresh sourdough from Björns Bakarí, which was soft, slightly tangy, and perfect for soaking up the broth.
Smoked Salmon Avocado Toast at Reykjavík Röst - 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.
For drinks, we ordered an Iced Blueberry Latte and a Cappuccino. The classic cappuccino was bold and smooth, a perfect match for the weather.
The iced Icelandic blueberry latte was the surprise star, beautifully layered with organic Icelandic blueberry juice and fresh-brewed coffee, topped with whipped cream and blueberry powder, sweet, creamy, and uniquely Icelandic.
For something sweet, we ordered a couple of local pastries, flaky, comforting, and just the right amount of indulgent to end the meal on a high note. We also tried the Northern Lights Cocktail, which was both flavorful and visually stunning, representing the colors of the northern lights.
The drink featured layered, aurora-inspired colors and a glowing ice cube, adding a whimsical twist. It was refreshing, slightly sweet, and fun; an unexpected highlight that felt perfectly suited to Reykjavík Röst’s cozy yet creative vibe.
Here is a snapshot of our top recommendations from the menu, each one well worth a try:
- Hungarian beef soup with sourdough – Rich, warming, and deeply satisfying on a cold day.
- Smoked salmon avocado toast – Fresh, healthy, and topped with a generous serving of local salmon.
- Iced Icelandic blueberry latte – Unique and indulgent, made with organic Iceland blueberry juice and local cream.
- Classic cappuccino – Robust and smooth, perfect for warming up close to the fireplace.
- Local pastries – Flaky and flavorful; a great option for dessert or an afternoon snack.
- Northern Lights Cocktail – A creative, visually stunning drink with layered colors and a glowing ice cube.
Reykjavík Röst: Opening Times, Breakfast Hours & Menu Availability
Reykjavík Röst is open Monday through Sunday from 08:00–18:00, making it easy to stop in before or after sightseeing, tours, or waterfront walks.
The menu has fresh options for whatever you're in the mood for:
- Breakfast & Brunch Items: From opening until 12:00 PM
- Soups, Sandwiches & Toasts: Available all day
- Coffee, Tea & Specialty Lattes: Anytime during open hours
- Beer, Wine & Cocktails: From 11:00 AM, following local alcohol regulations
- Happy Hour: Daily from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, with discounts on select beer and wine
- Pastries & Desserts: While supplies last—go early for the best selection
The menu also includes vegetarian options, and the friendly staff are happy to assist with dietary needs like gluten-free preferences — just ask when ordering.
Check out the latest Reykjavík Röst menu before your visit. You’ll find everything from freshly brewed coffee to light bites and local favorites.
Their seasonal offerings and waterfront setting make it a perfect stop any time of year. Check out the Reykjavík Röst official website before your visit.
Getting to Reykjavík Röst: Location, Directions & Nearby Attractions
You’ll find Reykjavík Röst at Geirsgata 5c, situated in Reykjavik’s bustling Old Harbour district. The café is within easy walking distance of some of the city’s top cultural sites and scenic spots, including:
- The Reykjavík Maritime Museum – A short stroll around the corner, where you can explore Iceland’s fishing history and sea heritage.
- Harpa Concert Hall – 10 minutes on foot, this architectural gem hosts concerts, performances, and exhibitions.
- Laugavegur (main street) – Reykjavik’s main shopping avenue is just a few blocks inland, lined with boutiques, bookstores, and Icelandic design stores.
If you're heading out on a whale watching tour from the Old Harbour, Reykjavík Röst 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 harbour area on foot.
Stop by Reykjavík Röst While You’re by the Harbour
Reykjavík Röst strikes a beautiful balance between cozy comfort and culinary care. From its history-rich location and thoughtful interior to the flavorful dishes and excellent coffee, it’s the kind of place that feels both local and welcoming.
It’s also one of the most versatile cafés in the city, perfect for solo travelers with laptops, couples seeking a quiet meal, or families needing space and accessibility.
The friendly staff are happy to answer questions or offer recommendations, and the scenic harbour views make every visit feel a little more special. With daily happy hour and a menu that highlights local ingredients, Reykjavík Röst is a standout stop in the Old Harbour.
If you're fueling up before a sea tour, enjoying a quiet lunch by the water, or simply after a solid cup of coffee with a view, this café is well worth adding to your Reykjavik itinerary.
