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Restaurants & Bars in Reykjavík

Discover the best Nordic cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and cozy corners in the northernmost capital. From fermented shark to world-class cocktails.

Why Reykjavik Eats?

Reykjavík’s culinary scene has exploded in the last decade. It’s no longer just about survival in the North Atlantic: ingredients – fresh seafood, free-range lamb, and wild berries – with international techniques.
Whether you’re looking for a dimly lit speakeasy to escape the winter chill or a sun-drenched (in summer) terrace to enjoy a local craft beer, the capital offers a surprising density of high-quality spots within walking distance of downtown.

Insider Tip

Don’t skip the hot dogs! Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur isn’t a tourist trap; it’s a local institution. Ask for “eina með öllu” (one with everything).
— Hildur, Local Food Guide

Classic

4.7

Bæjarins Beztu

The Towns best

The legendary hot dog stand……

Traditional

4.5

Íslenski Barinn

The Icelandic Bar

The perfect bar to try…

Dive Bar

4.4

Kaffibarinn

Legendary Nightspot

An iconic nightspot… Loved for…

cocktails

4.9

Jungle

Cocktail Bar

Trendy spot with lush decorTrendy…

Seafood

Sponsored

5

Messinn

Rustic Seafoods

Rustic. Famous for their Arctic…

Bar

4.4

Lebowski Bar

The dude abides

Cult classic themed bar with…

Bistro

4.8

Snaps Bistro

French Icelandic Bistro

A French spot with a…

Fine Dinning

Sponsored

4.6

Grillmarkaðurinn

The Grill Market

Icelandic ingredients cooked over fire…

Editor’s Picks: Best Cozy Restaurants for Winter

Bæjarins Beztu

The Towns best

Íslenski Barinn

The Icelandic Bar

Kaffibarinn

Legendary Nightspot

Jungle

Cocktail Bar

Messinn

Rustic Seafoods

Lebowski Bar

The dude abides

Snaps Bistro

French Icelandic Bistro

Grillmarkaðurinn

The Grill Market

Local Favorites This Week

Classic

4.7

Bæjarins Beztu

The Towns best

The legendary hot dog stand……

Traditional

4.5

Íslenski Barinn

The Icelandic Bar

The perfect bar to try…

Dive Bar

4.4

Kaffibarinn

Legendary Nightspot

An iconic nightspot… Loved for…

cocktails

4.9

Jungle

Cocktail Bar

Trendy spot with lush decorTrendy…

Seafood

5

Messinn

Rustic Seafoods

Rustic. Famous for their Arctic…

Bar

4.4

Lebowski Bar

The dude abides

Cult classic themed bar with…

What Locals Say

Honestly, the best nights are the spontaneous ones. Start at one bar and just see where the night takes you. You won't be disappointed.

A.G

Local Reykjavíker

Don't miss the smaller festivals! They're even more fun than the big ones—authentic community vibe. That's where the real magic is

R.K

Culture Blogger

The live music scene here is unreal. You can walk into almost any bar on a Friday night and find an amazing band playing.

E.S

Local Musician

Quick Questions / Mood selectors **

Find Your Fun on the Map **

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to tip in Reykjavik?

Reykjavík’s event scene is generally relaxed and smart-casual, but it depends on the type of event. For concerts, live music venues, and casual bars, jeans, boots, a nice sweater or jacket, and comfortable shoes are perfect—prioritize warmth with layers, as the weather can change quickly. Locals often dress stylishly but practically.

Do I need reservations?

For dinner, especially at popular fine dining establishments, reservations are highly recommended. For lunch or casual bars – walk-ins are usually fine.

Is alcohol expensive?

Reykjavík is famous for its late-night vibe—things start slow and ramp up after midnight. On weekdays (Sunday–Thursday), bars usually close around 1 AM. On weekends (Friday–Saturday), the party goes much later: bars until 3–4 AM, and clubs often stay open until 4:30–6 AM (or whenever the crowd thins out). Concerts and live music might end earlier (around 11 PM–midnight), but after-parties or bar-hopping continue into the early morning. Nightlife peaks between 1–3 AM, so pace yourself!