Uppsalir makes for the perfect retreat when you want to escape the harsh Icelandic chill. A warm fire glowing among the wooden interiors is the picture you'll take home after a visit to this upscale yet cozy cafe. Cakes, coffee refreshments, cheese and the like are the usual treats on offer. A chic bar can help you with something stronger if coffee alone can't warm you up! Uppsalir is also a popular venue for receptions.
This is a traditional Danish restaurant in Reykjavík, specialising in Smorrebrod, which has enjoyed an unbroken tradition as Danish culinary culture for the past 100 years. The Danish are unacknowledged masters of food, and the series of sumptuous open sandwiches offered here combines taste and elegance to perfection. Situated centrally, in one of the modern buildings of Lækjargata, Jómfrúin (meaning the virgin or the young lady) is ideal for cosy lunches, as well as quiet dinners.
A. Hansen is one of Hafnarfjörður's oldest and most prestigious restaurants, so prestigious in fact, that the place runs white stretch limousines, carefully labelled A. Hansen, for special occasions and services. Situated centrally in Hafnafjörður, in one of the oldest houses of the town, built in 1880, patrons can enjoy their meals in authentic late nineteenth-century decor, in an atmosphere that takes them to the past. The menu offers an exclusive 'plank steak', and seafood, as well as traditional Icelandic cuisine.
An enduring tourist attraction, Fjörukráin is actually two restaurants in one. One is Fjaran, a seafood restaurant with a varied menu that doubles as a favourite Hafnarfjörður bar at nights. Next to Fjaran is Fjörugarðurinn, and for tourist groups they offer Viking banquets, complete with traditional Icelandic food, served in the Viking manner on large wooden trays. The décor is in a mock Viking style, all the way from the crossbeams on the ceiling to weapons and shields on the walls. In addition to this the staff sings, providing live music too. With a view over Hafnarfjörður harbour this is an ever-popular experience for visitors to Iceland.
3 Frakkar is a small and cozy restaurant, which specializes in traditional Icelandic cuisine, most notably fish and whale meat. Seating a maximum of 44 diners, 3 Frakkar provides excellent service in an intimate setting. Start with an appetizer of Scallops in Cream or Mild Cream Fish Soup. Move on to an entrée like Whale Pepper Steak, Salted Cod, Grilled Catfish, or Fried Fish-Chins. Don't forget to save room for a dessert of Warm Chocolate Cake or Vanilla Ice Cream. Renowned chef Ulfar Eysteinsson uses classic Icelandic ingredients to add a local style to the seafood dishes. Check website for more information including today's specials. It is unfortunate that whale is on 3 Frakkar's menu. This endangered species has enough problems without it serving as an entrée for fine diners who may have more money than sense.
Throw all caution to the winds and give in to the sheer pleasure of good food and great company. Although this restaurant and bar is open for dinner only, it can be booked in advance for lunch, for 15 people or more. The Tapas Barinn follows the Spanish tradition of making dining a ride to indulge your senses. It's all about letting go. The food here is delicious and served in large portions to satisfy every tummy. Try the Saltfish Catallana Style or the Grilled Marinated Fillet of Lamb and Lobster Tails with Baked Potato, Fresh Salad and Alioli. End the evening with coffee or sumptuous dessert.
Ginger í 10-11 is part of a popular chain of health food joints in the heart of the Icelandic capital. This Ginger í 10-11 outlet occupies a busy spot in the northern part of the city. The family-friendly restaurant offers an exciting menu of fresh salads, peppery chicken sandwiches, wraps and decadent desserts. For beverages, one can choose from hot coffees and freshly juiced smoothies. Service remains pleasantly quick, while the efficient and courtoues staff ensure you have a enjoyable dining time at Ginger í 10-11.
Located in the lively foyer of the Saga hotel, Skrúður offers breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets at reasonable prices. The outer glass wall provides natural light, whether it be the low white winter sun, or the yellow hue of summer. The restaurant is even enjoyable in rain or snow storms due to its comfortable décor (lots of large plants), a large fireplace and excellent food. This is a favourite for indulgent lunches, and is popular for both academics from the university area on the other side of the road, and business people taking a break from the busy city central restaurants.
Fresh, healthy juices, scrumptious sandwiches, thick shakes and refreshing coffee is served to patrons in a warm and friendly ambiance at Joe & the Juice. Part of a large international chain, this outlet is no less than its other counterparts- prompt service and pocket-friendly prices can be expected at Joe's. Their menu is pretty impressive and features a slew of interesting juices. Fitness enthusiasts will love to quench their thirst with their healthy Immunity juice, Sports Juice and their signature Joe's Green Mile. Their trademark avocado and tomato loaded Joe's Club sandwich is a must try!
A popular local fast food restaurant, Pítan is known for serving scrumptious burgers, sandwiches, grilled delicacies and quick bites. There is a fine fare for the little ones too. Casual ambiance, prompt service and friendly staff can be expected here.
Hraðlestin is a cozy Indian restaurant specializing authentic and delicious street food options like kathi rolls and fried sweet potato. You can opt for one of their range of thalis or meals with multiple types of curries with rice and roti. Chicken tikka, lamb tikka masala, vegetable kurma and chicken Madras are some of the other options you will find here. While waiting for a table, you can check out the bar area and sip on their signature Sharaabi Express cocktail.
If you are in the mood for some spicy Mexican delicacies, Red Chili is the place to come to. The perfect place to come to for a family dinner out, the restaurant has a special corner for kids to play, color and watch kid's TV shows. Established in 2008, the restaurant boasts nachos, sauces, desserts and ribs which are made in-house right from scratch. They also have a couple of combo offers and great happy hour discounts.