Best Of Reykjavík 2018 - The Reykjavik Grapevine
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Special Issue Spring Edition
The Reykjavík Grapevine
Best of Reykjavík 2018
The City Awards grapevine.is/bestof
Best Of
Reykjavík 2018
Dining Drinking Shopping Activities
The 60 best eateries The 30 best nights out Our 30 shop awards The 30 funnest outings
Cheap eats & pizza Bargain boozing Fancy design shops Snow fun & day trips
Winter
Scheduled Flights / Seven destinations
Westman Islands
One of the wonders of nature,
surrounded by mountains,
islands, volcanoes and seabirds. Gjögur Húsavík
Sauðárkrókur
Vatnajökull Region Bíldudalur
Witness the majestic power
of Europe’s largest glacier or
conquer Iceland’s highest peak.
North Iceland
Visit Húsavík or Sauðárkrókur,
and witness the natural
wonders of North Iceland.
Höfn
The Westfjords Reykjavík
Explore one of the country’s
most isolated regions, rich
in natural wonders.
Westman Islands
For more information, pick up our brochure at your hotel
or local tourist information centre, or visit eagleair.is
eagleair.is | +354 562 4200 | info@eagleair.is
Location: Behind Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Natura at Reykjavík Airport
Seven destinations with year-
round possibilities, air charter
services and day tours to
Iceland’s most beautiful places
Day Tours / Adventure Tours
Glacier Lagoons on Your Own Mývatn on Your Own
Day tours to the famous Glacier lagoon and Exploring the Lake Mývatn area and
Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull Glacier. the natural wonders of North Iceland.
Day Tours to the Westman Islands Ice Caves and the Diamond Beach
These tours takes you from Reykjavík to the volcano Explore the thrilling ice caves of Vatnajökull
island of Heimaey in the Westman Islands archipelago. and Jökulsárlón’s glittering diamond beach.
4
Best of Reykjavík:
Best of Reykjavík 2018
The Reykjavík Grapevine
DINING 8
+ Flatey slays the pizza scene P:20
+ Ports in a storm: warm places for cold days P:22
AN INTRODUCTION:
DRINKING & NIGHTLIFE 24
O Spring, + The city's finest drinking estabishments P:24
+ The cocktail crawl: fancy happy hours P:28
Where Art Thou?
The joke that Iceland only has two sea- 2018. For example, we’ve seen a re-
sons comes with a kernel of truth. As cent trend for tasting menus, so you
the daffodils bloom in warmer climes, can now find out our top three in
Iceland lags behind. In fact, the first the dining section, and there’s been a
third of the year—where spring should groundswell of top quality artist-run
be—is a long, snowy extension of the spaces at the grassroots of the art SHOPPING 34
unpredictable shitstorm of winter. scene, which now have a category of
But life goes on—so welcome to the their own. + The best homewares & fancy design stores P:40
‘Spring’ edition of our Best Of Reyk- While you’re here, keep an eye out + How to not let a snowstorm ruin your day and/or life P:42
javík magazine. To create this guide to for our sister publications, Best Of
the city, we dragged a selection of the Iceland and The Reykjavík Grape-
most knowledgeable shoppers, com- vine, for more news, culture, and trav-
mitted barflies, indefatigable hikers, el ideas, and download the Appy Hour
and most gluttonous gourmands from and Appening apps for cheap booze
their hibernation to help us compile deals and events listings.
this list of the best Reykjavík has to of- We hope you find this issue useful
fer. During the debates, we discussed and entertaining as you slither around
all the new galleries, up ‘n’ coming Reykjavík’s slippery streets and alley-
eateries and tucked away boutiques as ways. Take care of yourselves, and ACTIVITIES 42
we engaged in the fun and lengthy de- each other.
cision process. John Rogers, + Trust the locals: your perfect day in Reykjavík P:44
We also refreshed the awards for Best of Reykjavík Editor + Get outta town: the best ways to see the wilds P:46
PUBLISHER BEST OF SHOPPING Valur Grettisson Hrefna Björg SHOPPING Best of Reykjavík
Hilmar Steinn COMPILED BY Gylfadóttir Sif Baldursdóttir by The Reykjavík
EDITORIAL
Grétarsson Alice Demurtas Saga Sig Aron Bergmann Grapevine is published
+354 540 3600
hilmar@grapevine.is Timothée Lambrecq Magnússon by Fröken ltd. Nothing
BEST OF REY- BEST OF DINING editor@grapevine.is
+354 540 3601 Benedikt Hauksson in this magazine may
KJAVIK 2018 publisher@grapevine.is
COMPILED BY
ADVERTISING
BEST OF PANELS
be reproduced in whole
Shruthi Basappa ACTIVITIES
Spring 2018 Edition by +354 540 3604 DINING or in part without the
BEST OF EDITOR Jessica Bowe
BEST OF DRINKING AND & +354 540 3610 Anna Margret Bjórnsson written permission of
John Rogers Grayson Del Faro
NIGHTLIFE COMPILED BY ads@grapevine.is Ólafur Örn Ólafsson the publishers. The
john@grapevine.is Valur Grettisson
Rex Beckett Ragnar Egilsson Best of Reykjavík is
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
GRAPEVINE EDITOR Sigriður Björk SALES DIRECTORS distributed around
BEST OF ACTIVITIES Shruthi Basappa
Hafnarstræti 15, 101 Reykjavík
IN CHIEF Bragadottir Aðalsteinn Jörundsson Reykjavík.
COMPILED BY Rex Beckett
Valur Grettisson adalsteinn@grapevine.is
www.grapevine.is John Rogers Hannah Jane Cohen
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PROOFREADING Alice Demurtas DRINKING & NIGHTLIFE
grapevine@grapevine.is helgi@grapevine.is Reykjavík Grapevine
ART DIRECTOR
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Printed by Ísafold sveinbjorn@grapevine.is COVER ART Elín Elísabet distribution@grapevine.is The opinions expressed
in 25,000 copies. Gabriel B. Bachmann - Alísa Kalyanova are the writers’ own, not
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PHOTO EDITOR
gabrielbachmann.com Art Bicnick the advertisers’.
Member of the Icelandic
Art Bicnick Alison MacNeil
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Travel Industry Association FACT CHECKING John Rogers
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The Reykjavík Grapevine Best of Reykjavík 2018 5
THE AWARDS:
6
How We
Best of Reykjavík 2018
The Reykjavík Grapevine
ICELANDIC Picked the
SEAFOOD
makes world’s best sushi Winners
The word “conclusion’’ is a little strong bespectacled jazz enthusiast. We’re not
in this case. We have argued, fought and, saying those two groups can’t overlap.
in one case, slammed our head against Maybe they can. Jazz people are good at
the wall. We interviewed panels, tried improvising and noise music definitely
blind taste-tests, and, in another case, needs more fans.
consulted what we believe to be an or- The thing is this is a guide. It’s a work
acle. This was not an easy or accurate in progress. It’s an attempt at letting
endeavour. people know where we think they should
The best comparison is glíma, or go. We didn’t all agree on everything, so
Icelandic wrestling. It’s not flashy or the runners up could end up being more
well produced like WWE. It’s not exactly palatable to you, and the winners could
graceful like Olympic wrestling, espe- be your third favourite. Yikes.
cially Greco-Roman. It’s two people in If this lack of certainty is too much
weird leather underwear, staring into for you: Imagine being the orig-
The best of Icelandic each other’s eyes and trying to hip-check inal tourist to Iceland. A wandering
each other while simultaneously attempt- tax-evader from Norway who decides
produce with a nod ing an atomic wedgie. to settle on a rock almost uninhabited
to Japan and South We’ll be honest. Some of the winners by animal life. A land that occasion-
America. Modern are just outright winners, but some are ally explodes and geysers that burst
a matter of debate and controversy. Like scalding sulphur-scented water from
Icelandic flavours,
in any other country, there are cliques the ground like a cannon ball at Sa-
share plates and award or special interest groups. The bar most tan’s pool party. It’s the kind of place
winning cocktails. liked by a 22-year-old noise music fanat- where people would invent glíma. YU
ic might seem a little off-putting to a
SOCIALIZE
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Look out for these stickers of recom-
mendation, which we’ve handed out to
this year’s winners. They indicate your
best option, whether you’re looking for
Our kitchen is open shopping, dining, drinking or party- 2018
17.00–23.00 sun.–thu. ing in Reykjavík. We at the Grapevine
17.00–24.00 fri.–sat. know what’s best!
BE
Also, these are the stickers from ST ON
our previous “Best of’’ selections, giv- BEER SELECTI
en to winners from prior years.
Sushi Social
Þingholtsstræti 5 • 101 Reykjavík
Tel. 568 6600 • sushisocial.is
The Reykjavík Grapevine Best of Reykjavík 2018 7
BEST OF REYKJAVÍK 2018
8
Best Veggie Burger Best Pizza
Dining
Best of Reykjavík 2018
The Reykjavík Grapevine
Delicious even if you can't pronounce it
There has never been a more exciting time for the restaurant scene
in Reykjavik. Thanks to burgeoning tourism, exposure, and a genuine
curiosity for foods from far and wide, diners now have a plethora of
choices on offer. Whether it’s high-end fine dining (we even boast a Mi-
chelin starred gem!), or a cheap late night bite, Reykjavik is coming into
its own as a culinary destination, offering small plates, tasting menus,
Prikið Flatey
farm to table seasonal produce and classic Iceland cuisine, and all while Bankastræti 12 Grandagarður 11
accommodating vegans and vegetarians. The following restaurants are One might not necessarily think of Few things get a Reykvíkingar’s heart
the very best, according to our panel of enthusiastic gourmands. Feel Prikið—an antique diner turned hip-hop racing like pizza, but for a pizza-loving
free to let us know what you think of our choices as you eat your way party bar—when they think of food, let nation, we’ve long had an unspeak-
around the city. We’re listening. And we’re hungry. alone vegetarian food or vegan fare, able affair with sloppy Domino’s. Not
but they offer both. They actually have anymore! True Napoli pizzas are now
not one but two vegan burgers on the
Best burger menu, both of which have their own
a reality in Reykjavík, with a pizzaiola
from Naples, a custom electric oven
staunch fans. The Ronald vegan burger that cooks pies in seconds, high-quality
with coconut chips may sound weird, ingredients atop every signature thin
but it totally works. They also have a slice, and leopard spot blistering. We’ve
burger-and-a-beer happy hour so drop already devoured our body weight in
in and try it out. the Padrino and cheesy Tartufo. The
classic Margherita is also unmissable,
and divine in its simplicity.
Runners Up Runners Up
Le Kock
Ármúli 42
Roadhouse Reykjavik
Snorrabraut 56
Roadhouse’s grilled celeriac ‘patty’ is
Eldofninn
Efstaland 26
Eldofninn has been pushing that
one of the best interpretations of a doughy envelope with topping com-
vegan/veggie burger. Without resorting binations that’ll leave you scratching
Bad boys on the block, Le Kock, have thrown down the gauntlet to the to Oumph, or the mystery mushy patty your head at first, but rubbing your
many burger joints in town, beating the competition by a long shot. trickery, it’s a clever, smoky, delicious belly later. Try the beetroot pizza or the
beast with all the trimmings. It’s soya mushroom, sausage and pickled
Is it the house-made potato rolls that don’t crumble or deflate until
available in both vegan and vegetarian chilli number, and make a night of it
the last bite? Is it the patty:bun ratio? The classic condiments? Or the versions. with some excellent cocktails from
Greek fries with herb dressing? Their no-nonsense attitude to food, the bar.
insistence on top-notch ingredients, and dedication to making the
best burger possible has won us over. Go for the classic cheeseburger,
and leave with some of their ridiculously good doughnuts.
Runners Up
Block Burger
Skólavörðustígur 8
Newcomer: Bio Borgari
Block Burger may have been heavily
Vesturgata 12 Hornið
inspired (ahem) by Shake Shack, sans
A tiny crowd-funded burger shack run Hafnarstræti 15
the mega chain’s signature potato roll
by two young entrepreneurs, Bio Bor- Hornið is an old school pizza joint where
buns. Block Burger slings excellent
gari takes clean eating seriously. Their you can break bread with your grand-
hamburgers—their hand-shaped
produce is organic, their buns seeded, ma and toddler, or show up nursing a
patties make for a tender, unevenly
and their wafer-thin root vegetables hangover, heartache, or both. With thin
edged, perfectly crisped, delectable
would give Tyrell’s a run for their money. crust pizzas and a no-frills Italian-Amer-
burger, topped off by their signature
The lentil seed patty is crisp and fla- ican flair in the decor as well as the
Hamborgarabúllan sauce with sharp mustard. And at 1,180
vourful. For an unconventional take on toppings, this is a local treasure. We
Multiple outlets ISK, the price is right.
the burger, Bio Borgari is a good bet. swear by their quattro stagioni.
Love it or hate it, Búllan is still going
strong after all these years. The
Geirsgata old-style burger joint Previous Winners Previous Winners Previous Winners
location—the cutest one in downtown 2017: Sæta Svínið 2017: Bike Cave 2017: Hornið
Reykjavik—is made better by the smoky 2015-6: Búllan 2016: Búllan 2014-6: Hverfisgata 12
steak burger. Pair it with some fries and 2014: Kex Hostel 2015: Brooklyn Bar 2013: Gamla Smiðjan
a milkshake, and you have the quintes- 2013: Vitabar 2013-4: Búllan
sential American fast-food meal.
9
Best Bakery Best Coffee Best Coffeehouse
The Reykjavík Grapevine
Best of Reykjavík 2018
Kaffihús
Kaffifélagið Vesturbæjar
Skólavörðustígur 10 Melhagi 20-22
Probably the smallest coffee bar in Kaffi Vest has the staunchest loyalists.
Iceland, Kaffifélagið continues to churn An all-purpose neighbourhood
out cupful after strong cupful of Italian café-coffeehouse-bar-restaurant
coffee, brewed to perfection. As one establishment, they serve good coffee,
regular on our panel quipped: ”There’s excellent Sara Bernhardt cookies, and
no bullshit and no frills—just excellent huge slices of chocolate or carrot
coffee.” Take-away may be the most cake. Located close to Vesturbæjarlaug
popular, but we recommend sitting pool, the café itself is cosy, with a vibe
down in the window area, and taking in that lends itself equally to a post-swim
the charms of the espresso machine lunch, working on your thesis, flirting
lined walls, and watching folk walk on a first date, or haggling fees with
by—mostly oblivious to this tiny gem’s a client. The lack of sound dampeners
existence. makes it pretty noisy in the evening, but
if you can get over that, you’re golden.
Brauð&Co, Sandholt Runners Up Runners Up
Joint winners
cinnamon bread rolls that are taken a
step further here and stuffed with blue-
berries and liquorice, granola crumble
or poppy seed and vanilla—eliciting
inappropriate satisfied moans from our
panel. The latest lemon cruffins have
us hyperventilating, but the cinnamon Reykjavik Roasters Reykjavik Roasters
sugar croissant roll will always have Brautarholt 2 & Kárastígur 1 Brautarholt 2 & Kárastígur 1
our heart. Don’t forget to try the dense This is the place for those who obsess With some of the best coffee in Iceland,
seeded Danish rye bread, which they over their Aeropress and V60s. Roasters Roasters offers the full Scandi coffee
conveniently have mini loaf versions of, has your geeky caffeine addiction house experience, but they're best
no bigger than your palm, studded with covered—gadgets included. They have known for their specialty coffe and
chocolate chips—perfect for snacking a variety of milk types, conjuring up their in-house roasted beans. The
or taking on board your next flight. images of hand-milked individual soy crowded Kárastígur branch is best for
beans—but in all seriousness, they are takeouts and dropping in; Brautarholt
Sandholt all great. for working away from your desk.
Laugavegur 36 Runner Up
This local institution continues to draw
lines of curious tourists, and with their
new extension, there’s more room for
them. The sourdough is deservedly
well-known, and if a whole loaf is too
much, they oblige by slicing just what
you need. If you’re staying or straying
close by, grab one of their delicious
loaves or a bag of pastries for snacks.
Passion Álfheimum Cafe Haiti Bismut
Álfheimum 6 Geirsgata 7B Hverfisgata 82
Slightly out of the city centre is the Elda Thorisson-Faurelien at Cafe Newcomer: The coolest kid on the
Passion bakery, a little tucked away Haiti uses Haitian coffee beans, freshly block, Bismut has a shiny bar, windows
suburban joint that offers excellent roasted and ground every day. Besides overlooking Hverfisgata, and exhi-
sourdough bread, pastries, and classic Italian coffee, the café also bitions by local artists. In a different
all kinds of sweet treats. Loyalists offers Arabic and Turkish varieties. league from chain cafés, Bismut is
describe it as a hidden diamond: it’s The beautiful location by the harbour perfect for those of us who don't care
certainly worth checking out should makes for a pleasant walk, and the café for medium-roast coffees, and their
you be in the area. is a welcome respite from the rassgat precisely brewed coffees come in
winds of Reykjavik. signature yellow cups.
Previous Winners Previous Winners Previous Winners
Brauð & Co. 2013-7: Sandholt New category! 2017: Reykjavik Roasters
Frakkastígur 16 2016: Stofan
Brauð & Co. have won the hearts of 2015: Kaffihús Vesturbæjar
the carb-butter loving nation in their 2014: Reykjavík Roasters
pursuit of the best baked goods. 2013: Kaffismiðjan
Regulars swear by their “snúður”—local
BEST OF REYKJAVÍK 2018
10
Best Indian Best Thai/Chinese
Dining
Best of Reykjavík 2018
The Reykjavík Grapevine
Iceland's not cheap so it better be good
Best Sushi
Austur-
Indíafélagið Ban Thai & Fönix
Hverfisgata 56 Joint winners
Still going strong twenty years on, this Ban Thai
is an institution in its own right, con- Laugavegur 130
sistently dishing out quality Indian fare Despite new Thai restaurants in town,
without compromising on authenticity. Ban Thai rules the roost. Don't be fooled
A small rotational menu with regional by their extensive menu—these guys
dishes, this is the place if you are mean business. It’s a whirlwind tour of
celebrating a birthday, wooing your regional Thai cuisine, including creamy
partner, or simply taking a break from coconut curries from the South and
the monotony. Word to the wise? Make fiery “jungle” dishes from the North. Our
a meal of the salmon pollichathu, kozhi advice is to skip the starters and go for
mappas and kulchas and share it family the green curry with strips of crunchy
style. Keep your eyes peeled for the bamboo, or the spicy pad krapow,
vegetarian and vegan dishes as well. redolent with fresh basil and birdseye
Call ahead to make reservations. chillies. Wash it all down with an ice-
cold Tsinga beer.
Runners Up
Joint Winner: Fönix
Höfði
It is hard to get good Chinese food in
Fiskmarkaðurinn Reykjavik, but amidst limited choices,
Fönix offers a surprisingly good range
Aðalstræti 12 of staples, and some Sichuanese fare
as well. The mapo tofu is loaded with
cubes of silky tofu and a smattering
Hands down our panel's favourite sushi restaurant in town, we sug- of dochi, and is available in a vegan
gest making a meal of the sashimi platter. It’s beautifully presented at version too. For those working around
the table, with a lot of flair, and deftly sliced fatty salmon and trout, Shalimar Hofði, the lunch buffet is okay, but we
and glistening scallop—left mercifully unadorned—with a sprinkle Austurstræti 4 recommend going for the works. The
Shalimar’s Pakistani fare might have wonton soup and a side of steamed
of roe here, and a delicious mound of wakame there. All of this beau- dumplings won’t break the bank.
seen variable quality over the last few
tiful food is only made better by the table-side grating of fresh, locally years, but they are back now with re-
grown, Icelandic wasabi. Pair it with the wasabi cocktail and you have newed energy. We recommend making
a delicious and refreshing meal. a meal of the thali - simple delicious Runner Up
fare, with an everyday rotation of a
lip-smacking assortment of curries,
Runners Up rice, naan and classic tandoori chicken.
Finish off with some creamy kheer.
Mai Thai Bistro
Laugavegur 118
For affordable, quick and satisfying Thai
Sushi Social Hraðlestin fare, Mai Thai is a safe bet. The curry
Sushibarinn
Þingholtsstræti 5 Lækjargata 8 pastes may not be made from scratch,
Suðurlandsbraut 10
Housed in a beautiful old timber house Not for worshippers of ‘Jiro dreams The affordable sibling of Austur but the food is fresh, the service swift
in the heart of downtown, Sushibarinn of sushi’, Sushi Social is the evolution Indíafélagið, mixing a Bollywood interior and the flavours perfect for the nippy
offers a variety of sauce-laden sushi of Japanese dish on this island—aka with vintage movie posters and antique weather in Reykjavik. The menu chang-
rolls—the local favourite—but we rec- ‘pylsu sushi’. Traditionalists may baulk, furniture. The chicken 65 and the thalis es every day, and there’s a grocery
ommend sticking to their fresh sashimi but the surf and turf rolls have a loyal win the popularity contest, but the store for hard-to-find home cooking
platters and washing it down with following, and the exhaustive cocktail masala chai—“the closest to an Indian ingredients.
something from their saké selection. menu should help any sushi purists mum’s version,” said the panel—should
Sakébarinn, located downstairs with an through the fusion-cooking trauma. be as popular as the mango lassi.
entrance on Laugavegur, offers window
seats and takeout. Previous Winners Previous Winners Previous Winners
2016-7: Fiskmarkaðurinn 2016-7: Austur-Indíafjelagið 2014-7: Ban Thai
2015: SuZushii 2014-5: Gandhi 2013: Yummi Yummi
2014: Sushisamba 2013: Austurlandahraðlestin
2013: SakebarinnWHALE
11
The Reykjavík Grapevine
Best of Reykjavík 2018
WATCHING
AKUREYRI • REYKJAVIK
EXCE
SUCC T LLEN
ESS
Sig
guarhating
ntee
Tel: (+354) 462 6800 • info@ambassador.is • ambassador.is
AmbassadorWhaleWatching whales_in_iceland @AmbassadorWhaleBEST OF REYKJAVÍK 2018
12
Best Place For A Fancy Meal Best Family Meal
Dining
Best of Reykjavík 2018
The Reykjavík Grapevine
Not everything is shark and sheep head
Best Goddamn Restaurant Jamie’s Italian
Pósthússtræti 11
Dill
Hverfisgata 12 When Jamie’s first opened its doors,
critics were eager to see how the
restaurant would fare. Like all the
If you’re a gourmand looking for a mem-
Jamie’s franchises worldwide, the Reyk-
orable meal when in Reykjavík, Dill has
javík location has family at its core. The
to top the list. Dill showcases the best
spacious booth seating, fresh, hand-
of Iceland with seasonal menus, paying
made pasta that would appeal to the
homage to the island’s bounty, often
very young, old and those in between,
found no place else, executed with
at prices that do not break the bank,
all the tweezer-precision of modern
and the very attractive option to have
cuisine. Don’t even think twice about
half portions makes this a clear winner.
splurging for the seven-course menu—
“They don’t infantilize the children’s
it’s the only way to do it. Top-notch
menu,” observed one panellist, “and
service and friendly sommeliers round
parents can have a good time too.”
off an already perfect experience.
Runners Up Runners Up
Mat Bar
Hverfisgata 26
Grillmarket Hamborgarafabrikkan
An across the board favourite, Mat Bar is probably the only restaurant Lækjargata 2a Hofðatorg, Kringlan
in town that takes its seasonal produce first approach to its menu se- The locally-sourced tasting menus of Kids’ choice: For birthday parties or a
Grillmarket have been a hit with diners
riously enough to churn out seven menus since opening. In a stylish regular old outing with the fam, 'Fab-
since this place opened its doors. A rikkan is ideal for a louder-than-usual
dining room with an open kitchen, this devil-may-care attitude trans- favourite ‘fancy place’ for locals, the outing. There are plenty of distractions
lates to unconventional yet delicious food, from Icelandic monkfish restaurant recently upped its game by for young diners, and orders from
livers to grilled, stuffed squid, a stellar hand-stretched mozzarella offering fresh, locally grown Icelandic the extensive burger menu are taken
wasabi, available nowhere else. Our
with pickled tomatoes, rosemary-dusted lamb chops, and a smooth- early and served quickly to keep young
panel suggested pairing the wasabi temperaments in line, all without com-
ie-lookalike cocktail in the basil gobernador. If all that wasn’t enough, with a steak, and something from the promising on service.
they raise the bar for vegetarian dishes too. One panellist summed it exhaustive wine list.
up as “a marriage of fire and flavour, plate after plate.”
Runners Up
Apotek Restaurant Bryggjan Brugghús
Hverfisgata 12 Austurstræti 16 Grandagarður 8
Hverfisgata 12 This sleek, spacious downtown bar Parents’ choice: The food may be hit
Despite murmurs about blips in quality and dining room has that all-important and miss, but this spacious microbrew-
at peak times, this cosy pizza joint fancy feeling, matched by service that’s ery is popular with families. There’s end-
remains a beloved downtown “happy attentive without being intrusive, and less space for energetic young ones to
place” for many. Their hearty pizzas are locally sourced ingredients cooked expend some energy, and service that
Snaps to perfection and presented with a makes them feel welcome. Parents can
inventively-topped, their brunch menu
Þórsgata 1 flourish. The cocktails are excellent, sit back and relax over a house-brewed
has interesting options, the decadent
Restaurants may come and go, but and whether it’s a date or a birthday, it’s beer without worrying about their
sides are meals in themselves, and
Snaps remains beloved by all. The a safe choice for a special occasion. young wards. What’s not to like?
their cocktails hit the spot without fail.
house fries—a mound of perfectly fried
spuds—are reason enough alone to
make a trip to the cosy, plant-bright- Previous Winners Previous Winners Previous Winners
ened bistro. Casual but chic, it’s
somewhere to see and be seen. Did 2017: Snaps / Matur og Drykkur 2014-7: Dill 2017: Hamborgarafabrikkan
we mention they make a stellar crème 2014-6: Snaps 2013: Gallery at Hótel Holt (RIP) 2016: Laundromat
brulée as well? A true keeper. 2015: KEX Hostel
2013-4: Laundromat13
The Reykjavík Grapevine
Best of Reykjavík 2018
PIZZA NAPOLETANA
MARGHERITA
@FLATEYPIZZA FLATEY.PIZZA
GRANDAGARÐUR 11
101 REYKJAVÍK +354 5882666BEST OF REYKJAVÍK 2018
14
Best Vegetarian Meal Best Vegan Meal
Dining
Best of Reykjavík 2018
The Reykjavík Grapevine
Make it worth the wait
Best Cheap Meal
Skál!
Mat Bar, Shalimar Hlemmur, Laugavegur 107
Joint winners
Since its opening, Skál has served up
Mat Bar vegan versions of almost their entire
Hverfisgata 26 menu. We’re currently crushing on
the smoked carrots with avocados,
This stylishly designed restaurant has
seaweed salt and lovage mayo, piled
an interesting variety of vegetari-
atop a gorgeous seeded Danish rye
an dishes that go way beyond the
bread. The portions are tapas-size, so
standard salad and side-dish options.
feel free to try multiple dishes, but
Their grilled carrots are as good as
whatever you do, don’t leave without
any grilled meat we’ve had, and the
trying the roasted broccoli—smoky,
radicchio salad with toasted nuts and
tender broccoli halves, doused with a
goat cheese or spicy bok choy with
creamy sauce and nutmeg. So, so good!
fermented oranges are the stuff of
While the menu may not explicitly mark
vegetarian dreams. Seasonality is a key
out the vegan options, just ask, and the
focus at Mat Bar, so be warned that
kitchen will oblige.
favourites may vanish suddenly when
the menu changes, but something
surprising and new will spring up in Runners Up
Icelandic Street Food
their place.
Shalimar
Austurstræti 4
Lækjargata 8
The vegetarian thali at Shalimar comes
chock full of seasonal veggies in a me-
You can’t really beat the incredible prices at this tiny spot with a big lange of flavours, spices, and colours.
Unlike the à la carte menu, the thali
heart. All the soups are offered in a bread bowl version—and wait for
offerings change every day, so expect
it—unlimited refills! In a country that prides itself on the quality of beetroot cooked in a savoury, tangy
its free-range lamb, kjötsúpa is a must try. It’s a hearty bowl of lamb stir-fry one day, or gourds and squash
in a heady gravy on another. It’s home- Kaffi Vínyl
chunks and vegetables that’s old school in a good way. The fisher- Hverfisgata 76
style cooking, with restaurant flair, and
man’s meal is also popular—a tasty plokkfiskur of mashed potato Reykjavík’s only fully vegan café is
the kitchen puts effort into the simple
and fish, with bread and butter. The soups start at 1,390 ISK—if you’d desi buffet. Don’t waste your krona on Kaffi Vínyl. They offer wholesome fare
like to try Icelandic food without breaking the bank, this is the spot. the mango lassi—it’s an unnecessary in generous portions, with soy-based
distraction from the food. Oumph meat substitute, and various
non-dairy milk options for the beverag-
Runners Up es. The food has been hit and miss—a
Runner Up reflection of changes in the kitchen, no
doubt—but regulars swear by the Pad
Thai and the Oumph sandwiches.
Pallett
Strandgata 75, Hafnarfjörður
It might seem odd to give this award Út í Bláinn
Noodle Station Bike Cave Perlan, Öskjuhlíð
to a place with only one permanent
Laugavegur 103 Einarsnes 36 Newcomer: Sitting pretty atop Öskjuhlíð,
Walking down Laugavegur, towards The cheeseburger at Bike Cave is still a vegetarian option on the menu, but
Út í Bláinn is the new restaurant in
Hlemmur, the inviting scent of cinna- steal at just 995 ISK. There are plenty of the veggie sausage roll at Pallett is the
Perlan. With 360 views of nature and
mon, star anise and coriander leads vegetarian and vegan options, a friend- stuff of dreams. With melt-in-the-mouth the city—reason enough to warrant a
one to Noodle Station. In this more spa- ly residential Sphinx cat, and a darn flaky buttery pastry and a tasty, spicy visit—the restaurant also offers vegan
cious location, they continue to serve good view of the airstrip still warrants a filling, it’s a true Grapevine favourite. dishes put together by chefs with fine
up bottomless bowls of intense broth, trip to the ‘other’ side of town. Also, the coffee is so good it’d be worth dining experience. We recommend the
with either meat, chicken or veggies, the trip to Hafnarfjörður alone. cauliflower dish with capers.
the cheapest veggie soup coming in at
less than 1,000 ISK.
Previous Winners Previous Winners Previous Winners
2017: Bike Cave 2016-17: Kaffi Vínyl New category!
2016: Noodle Station 2015: Teni
2015: K-Bar 2013-14: Gló
2014: 10-11 after 14:00
2013: “Sub of the month” at Subway15
The Reykjavík Grapevine
Best of Reykjavík 2018
BSÍ Bus Terminal • 101 Reykjavík • +354 580 5400 • main@re.is • www.re.is16
Best Brunch Best Seafood Must-Try Dining
Experience
Best of Reykjavík 2018
The Reykjavík Grapevine
Fiskmarkaðurinn
Cafe Paris & Fish Company Matur & Drykkur
Austurstræti 14 Joint winners Grandagarður 2
Cafe Paris’s European style brunch Fiskmarkaðurinn Matur og Drykkur continues to grab
with a few American classics thrown in, Aðalstræti 12 attention with its Instagram-worthy
make for a must-do weekend activity. “I haven’t had better salmon,” said entré of a whole cod head, cooked in
Near perfect eggs florentine, top-notch one panellist, of the robota grilled chicken stock then glazed and torched.
fried chicken with waffles, and a hulk- salmon at Fish Market. The Japanese Whether you’re scoring likes or foodie
ing stack of pancakes with a generous grill is put to good use here, with the bragging rights, this is the definitive
jug of maple syrup, some bubbly to pair seafood seared, smokey, and tender. adventurous dish to try in Reykjavík. The
it with, and the quintessential brunch The split level restaurant is ideal for meat is tender, and knives and forks
experience is complete. We advise you business shake-downs as well as being are redundant—go in with a spoon. It
to take your time at brunch here, why group-friendly, and the bar on the first comes with the unctuous and creamy
not round things off with steak and floor is perfect for a first date. The ‘gellur’—cod tongue—fried in a light
THE HOME eggs? We for one can barely wait for
the summer to sit outdoors on the café
tasting menus come recommended, as
are the interesting concoctions from
tempura-like batter and served on the
side. Matur og Drykkur is also one of a
OF ICELANDIC
patio and sip our Bellinis. the bar. Everything on the menu gets an handful of restaurants that honours
Asian nod, and the approach to fusion traditional Icelandic cooking by ele-
cooking always hits the spot. For an vating it to fine-dining status, without
Runners Up
SEAFOOD
extravagant seafood experience, Fish reducing it to a shock-value spectacle.
Market is your safest bet.
Runners Up
AND LAMB Fish Company
Vesturgata 2a
The Fish Company steadfastly dishes
up some of the best seafood in
APOTEK Kitchen+Bar is Iceland. While the panel noted a lack of
a casual-smart restaurant located evolution in the menu, consistency is
king here. Case in point: the deceptively
in one of Reykjavíks named lobster salad—a feast for one,
Haust
most historical buildings. Fosshotel, Þórunnartún 1
with generous portions of deep-fried
lobster, tiger shrimp and fresh, spright-
We specialize in fresh seafood With American inspired brunch staples,
ly salad.
efficient service, and room for the
and local ingredients young and your extended family, Café Loki
prepared with a modern twist. Haust’s brunch is a well-kept secret. “El- Runner Up Lokastígur 28
egant and laidback, you can take your Café Loki seems to be have been
child, or your mother-in-law—it’s like around for as long as Hallgrímskirkja it-
being in a nice hotel,” said the panel. self. Unassuming and simple, they were
on the ‘dung smoked fish’ bandwagon
before it was cool. Most new Icelanders
APOTEK KITCHEN+BAR had an initiation into Icelandic food at
Austurstræti 16 101 Reykjavík apotek.is Café Loki. The rye bread soup and ice-
cream are excellent, and you can try
fermented shark and Brennivin.
Sægreifinn
Messinn Geirsgata 8
Lækjargata 6 No longer a secret, this harbourside
Inspired by the well-known Tjöruhúsið restaurant has seen a drop in the
Snaps quality of their signature soup in recent
restaurant in Ísafjörður, Messinn
Þórsgata 1 years, but the number of visitors has
honours Icelandic seafood by serving
Snaps serves up a brunch perfect for
it in generous family-sized servings. only risen. However, it’s still a cosy
a laid-back Sunday morning recov-
The focus is squarely on the fresh in- place, the seafood kebabs are a good
ery session. Choose from various
gredients, simple sauces, and a side of bet, and the soup is still comforting on
omelettes, classic eggs benedict, and
vegetables. The fish is always perfectly blighty days.
croque monsieurs, and add a mimosa
cooked, and they serve up fantastic
if the mood strikes you. If that isn’t
plokkfiskur and arctic char, and a mean
your tipple of choice, they have a great
salmon burger.
bloody mary and a dedicated g’n’t
menu.
Previous Winners Previous Winners Previous Winners
2017: Vox 2013-17: Fiskfélagið 2016-17: Matur og Drykkur
2016: Coocoo’s Nest 2015: Shrimp pyramid at Jómfrúin
2015: Slippbarinn 2014: Food section at Kolaportið
2014: Coocoo’s Nest 2013: Icelandic food at Kaffi Loki
2013: VoxGrand
17
The Reykjavík Grapevine
Best of Reykjavík 2018
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18
Best Late-Night Bite Best Place To Go With A
Group Of Friends
Dining
Best of Reykjavík 2018
The Reykjavík Grapevine
Stuff your face, daintily
Best Lunch Place
Mandi Tapas barinn
Veltusund 3b Vesturgata 3b
“It should make your hands dirty. You Tapas barinn may not be faithful to the
should need five napkins at least,” said Spanish definition of a tapas bar, but
the panel. And that’s what you’ll get at what they do capture well—and bois-
Mandi. Their quesadilla-like arais maria terously at that—is the atmosphere
is thin flatbread stuffed with ground and liveliness of tapas. It’s long been a
lamb and spices, grilled and served like local tradition to host reunions, bach-
a Syrian calzone, only better. The guys elor parties and noisy get-togethers at
behind the counter are forever smiling, Tapas barinn. The food is served for the
the food is cheap, the crowd is bustling whole table, and the selection is huge,
and tipsy after 4am, and it hits all the spanning local langoustine, puffin and
bases for being a sweet post-party lamb, as well as more global fare. And
snack spot like no other. it’s all delicious.
Snaps
Runners Up Runners Up
Þórsgata 1
Oh, Snaps, our most beloved bistro! If the experience of their rising
dinner prices and peak-hour waiting times stills stings, it’s time to
heal that wound by dropping in for lunch instead. There’s a faultless
fish of the day, prompt service, and a little bit of daytime quiet to your-
self. Psst: if with a co-worker, split the crème brulée, and we promise
Devitos Marshall House Bar + Restaurant
your day will be brighter from that moment on. Laugavegur 126 Grandagarður 20
If you were born in the 80s, then Newcomer: It may not be the first place
chances are you’ve spent at least one thinks of—101-dwelling Icelanders
two decades worth of late-night find anything outside of their 100m ra-
pizza bingeing at Devitos. Available by dius far away—but The Marshall House
Runners Up the slice or as whole pies, it’s on the is a seriously underrated place to start
weekend that Devitos really steps up or end the night. With great cocktails,
its customer care game. Their greasy finger-licking food and a beautiful har-
slices are done just right. bourside location, it’s a classy affair.
Grillmarket Ostabúðin
Lækjargata 2a Skólavörðustígur 8 Dirty Burger and Ribs Sushi Social
Even though they don’t advertise it, No longer a ‘secret lunch spot’ spot, Austurstræti 18 Þingholtsstræti 5
Grillmarket offers an excellent value Ostabúðin is great nonetheless. Their “Nothing beats eating juicy, sticky With colourful cocktails, festive music,
lunch. The burger is popular, but we fish of the day is 1,990 ISK at lunchtime, ribs after a night of drinking,” said our and service that’s eager to please, Sushi
recommend the salted cod. “It’s not too and you can get a half portion of the increasingly peckish panel. The ribs at Social takes the ‘social’ part seriously.
salty, and perfectly cooked every time,” soup if you’re hangry. The seafood soup Dirty Burger and Ribs are salty, sweet, The drinks keep coming, the food isn’t
said the panel. And at 2,990 ISK instead has generous chunks of white fish, and fall-off-the-bone tender. If that too heavy, and the peppy carnival vibe
of the 5,990 ISK price at dinner, it’s a cooked just right by the warmth of the doesn’t convince you, we don’t know and downtown location make it perfect
lunchtime steal. soup itself. what will. to start the night before heading out to
djamma like a true Reykvíkingar.
Previous Winners Previous Winners Previous Winners
2017: Snaps 2017: Ali Baba 2015-7: Tapas barinn
2015-6: Ostabúðin 2016: Fish and Chips 2013-14: KEX
2014: Bergsson Mathús 2015: Dirty Burger & Ribs
2014: Nonnabiti19
Best Newcomer Best Ice Cream Best Tasting Menu Best Italian
The Reykjavík Grapevine
Best of Reykjavík 2018
Nostra Skúbb Dill Marshall House
Laugavegur 59 Laugarásvegur 1 Hverfisgata 12 Bar + Restaurant
Veltusund 3b
“Nostra” translates to ‘meticulous detail’ Giving stiff competition to granddaddy Dill has been doing tasting menus
in Icelandic. This philosophy is distilled Valdís, Skúbb plays into the national longer than most in Iceland. Built on the Chef Leifur Kolbeinsson practically
into every dish at this new tasting-menu obsession for ice-cream all day, any New Nordic philosophy, the menu tra- introduced Icelanders to fresh pasta
oriented fine dining place, from the day. Unlike the ultra-aerated, maxi- verses the islands culinary traditions, at his iconic restaurant La Primave-
lightly cured trout in green strawberry mised-for-profit tub versions available changing seasonally. Offered as five ra. Now running the kitchen at the
juice to the langoustine cooked to a in supermarkets, these creamy churned or seven-course menus, every meal is Marshall House eatery, he stays true
velvety singular bite with nothing more scoops are dense and full of flavour. We introduced with a series of ‘snacks’ or to the Italian spirit of simplicity. The
than lardo and lavender. Elegant, con- especially like the dark chocolate, and assorted amuse-bouche. The progres- menu focuses on fresh ingredients
fident and refined, they let one or two in- the roasted white chocolate. Who even sion is a tight narration of seasons, cooked beautifully; whole cooked
gredients shine in each dish. Nostra also knew chocolate could be roasted? The flavours, ingredients and traditions. plaice with burnt lemons, capers and
houses Artson, an artisanal cocktail bar seasonal mango ice-cream and other A cunning ability to tap into the food anchovies jostle for attention alongside
mixing up delicious concoctions—we’re fruity sorbets are worth making the trip memories of its diners is what makes a a n’djua spiced tagliatelle with plump
particularly partial to the Cherry Manhat- to Laugardal, just for the excuse to have meal at Dill that much more memorable langoustine.
tan. Nostra is a breath of fresh air. some ice cream afterwards. and inspiring. We recommend going all
in for the wine pairings.
Runners Up Runners Up Runners Up Runners Up
Hlemmur Mathöll Valdís Apotek Kolabrautin
Laugavegur 107 Grandagarður 21 Austurstræti 16 Harpa
The most anticipated new spot in The long lines here deter no one. The Apotek’s tasting menu takes quality Ice- For a decadent dinner, in possibly
recent years, it's Iceland’s first food hall, flavours are fun, with a nod to local landic ingredients and serves them with the prettiest building in town, Harpa,
housed in a renovated bus station. De- tastes, like the lakkrís, aka liquorice, refreshing and interesting twists from Kolabrautin is perfect for pre-show
spite squeaks of gentrification, the food or the not-so-subtle jokes on current the kitchen. The service is excellent, the nibbles or a dinner date. The views are
hall is a popular spot for both locals affairs—who can forget the memora- plating is aesthetically pleasing, and the beyond spectacular, both inside the
and tourists, with choices from Mexican ble “icehot1” flavour? The takeaway whole experience is reliably high quality. restaurant, and looking out towards the
food to Vietnamese, Danish smorrebröð, ice-boxes are particularly great if you A carefree meal at Apotek is the perfect harbour. “The lobster pizza is the thing
or the Icelandic gastropub Skál. are hosting a party at home. medicine for a tiring week. to order here,” sighed one panellist.
Marshall House Bar + Restaurant Ísleifur Heppni Nostra Coocoo's Nest
Grandagarður 20 Hlemmur Mathöll, Laugavegur 107 Laugavegur 59 Grandagarður 23
A bright, airy space located under three Newcomer: Liquid nitrogen ice-cream Newcomer: Bursting onto the fine-din- This cosy and popular eatery on Grandi
floors of excellent cutting-edge con- is still seeing a popularity surge. Hard ing scene, upstart fine-dining eatery might not be a full-time Italian restur-
temporary art galleries, the Marshall not to understand when the rather the- Nostra has tasting menu options of ant—on different nights of the week
House Bar + Restaurant outdoes the atrical process yields creamy, intensely four, six and eight courses, consisting you'll find them serving tacos, pizza,
traditional museum café tenfold. With flavoured ice-cream with none of the of deceptively simple plates with bold pasta, and other dishes of the day—but
excellent spins on Italian food and a icy grittiness of freezer burns. Freshly flavours in a daring display of the simple they capture the spirit of the Italian
great cocktail and wine list, make a made warm waffles are a great vehicle and complex. For an adventurous meal style better than most with their happy
point of heading out to Grandi to try it. for all that sugar and cream. in a beautiful setting, Nostra is perfect. hour aperativos. Salut!
Previous Winners Previous Winners Previous Winners Previous Winners
2017: Hlemmur Mathöll / Mat Bar 2013-14: Valdís 2015-17: Tapas barinn None: new category!
2012: YoYo 2013-14: KEX
2010-11: Ísbúðin Ísland20
Best of Reykjavík 2018
The Reykjavík Grapevine
Some people report their pizza arriving at Flatey in under two minutes
“It became an obsession; the idea that is the Neapolitan pizza. Such is its
popularity that they were recently
Naples flash cooking each one in
under a minute. The Diavola is a
pizza could be more than just basic food.” included in the UNESCO listing of true-to-its-name spicy number,
‘intangible cultural heritage.’ the heat tempered by the pickling
DINING Essentially a 10” pie, the Ne- and a wonderful touch of honey.
apolitan pizza is hand stretched, The Tartufo is a pizza bianca, ele-
Pizza
with simple San Marzano toma- vated by truffle oil and handmade
to sauce, mozzarella, fresh basil Italian cheese. For vegans, there’s
and olive oil, served unsliced. The also a delicious Marinara.
most popular, and also the sim-
Perfection
plest is the Margherita, which Local tide
marries simple ingredients by fla- With most Icelanders preferring
vour and fire. NY-style pizza, I’m curious how
the response has been to this au-
Flatey thentic Italian fare. “I was expect-
Iceland’s first Napoli-style pizzeria delivers “We decided to do this a year ago,” ing that a lot of people wouldn't
says Haukur. I have a hard time like it,” says Haukur. “We knew it
Words: Shruthi Basappa Photos: Art Bicnick believing him as I slice into the would be a slow start with people
Margherita. It’s simplicity itself, discovering it. It isn’t a crunchy
Pizzas and burgers get Icelanders’ ria by the Margherita, and how
hearts racing like nothing else. to close your eyes, feel the taste
When Domino’s first opened its of the tomatoes, the dough, and
doors in Reykjavík in the fall of the cheese. After that, it became
1993, the lines were never-ending, an obsession; the idea that piz-
but for a country so obsessed with za could be more than just basic
pizza, a regional-style pizzeria food.”
touting the virtues of the humble
hand-made pie has been glaringly Napoli style
absent. Flatey is a smart, modern pizze-
Now, four young entrepre- ria. It exudes a trendy, moody vibe
neurs—Sindri Snær Jensson, Jón in a grey-black-green palette. The
Davíð Davíðsson, Brynjar Guð- polished copper pizza oven serves
jónsson and Haukur Mar Gests- as a bright focus of the open
son—are looking to put that kitchen, and there are snippets
right. They took their love of piz- from the history of the Margheri-
za seriously enough to turn one ta everywhere. It’s the perfect spot
corner of Grandi into Reykjavík’s for anything from a first date to a and the quality of the ingredients pizza—it’s simpler.’’
Little Italy. casual family outing. are obvious. “We travelled, we But the place has been packed
“It all started in New York,” Unlike take-out pizzas from tried different Neapolitan pizze- to the gills since its opening. Flat-
says Haukur. “I went on a pizza large chains, pizzas vary by re- rias, ate nothing but pizzas,” he ey has managed to, in a very short
tour in New York City in 2009. gion, from the beloved thin crust continues. “And then we went to window, turn the pizza tide. The
Back then I didn't know anything and pepperoni New York slice, to Naples.” pricing is intentionally honest,
about pizza, other than that I liked Roman pizza al taglio, fried piz- All of Flatey’s pizzas bear that the passion is palpable, and the piz-
it. The tour started at Lombardi’s. za (pizza fritte), and Sicilian pies. delectable leopard skin blister- zas? Possibly the best in town. And
We were told you judge a pizze- But probably the most celebrated ing, with the electric oven from we don’t say that lightly.21
The Reykjavík Grapevine
Best of Reykjavík 2018
frakkastigur 16
OPENING HOURS
EARLY - 18:00
Fakafen 11
OPENING HOURS
EARLY - 18:00
hlemmur matholl
OPENING HOURS
EARLY - 18:00
www.braudogco.is22
Best of Reykjavík 2018
The Reykjavík Grapevine
“When the storm breaks, Pallett Ramen Momo
Strandgata 75, Hafnarfjörður Tryggvagata 16
you won’t want to leave.” If you’re craving some stew, pas- There’s nothing better than
ties or sausage rolls in a cosy, a touch of chilli to spice up a
DINING GUIDE homely environment, Pallett in grey day and what better way
Hafnarfjörður is the place to go. to go than this little ramen bar?
Come At Me,
The English cook makes buttery, Squeeze into one of the bar seats,
melt-in-the-mouth pastries and order a soup, and pick your home-
divine casseroles, cooked over- made toppings: pork for intense
night for a rich flavour. There’s flavour, kimchi if you’re feeling
Snowstorm
gourmet coffee, sweet treats, adventurous, or scorching hot
interesting books, with desks to veggie dumplings if soup isn’t
work on, nooks to hide in, and enough. Enjoy with some ex-
window seats with a view over tra chilli sauce and get warmed
Hafnarfjörður harbour. When the through in a heartbeat. AD
Comforting places for the cold season storm breaks, you won’t want to
leave. JR Snaps Downstairs Bar
Words: John Rogers & Alice Demurtas Photo: Art Bicnick Þórsgata 1
Hverfisgata 12 Snaps Bistro is known for its
As nice as it is to hibernate Súpa Hverfisgata 12 French-inspired menu and the
throughout the dark, stormy Bergstaðastræti 4 Hverfisgata 12 has become, for jungle of plants decorating their
months, we all still need to get An offshoot of Súpabarinn on many, a Reykjavík “happy place.” glass solarium. The fresh looking
out a bit. But where in Reykjavík Borgartún, this conveniently lo- They’ve expanded their cre- bistro, however, hides a fiery gem
has the right vibe for the delicate, cated downtown soup café is a atively-topped pizza menu to in- in its basement. Leave the cold be-
insomniac, seasonally affected welcome arrival. There are four clude all kinds of decadent com- hind, circumnavigate the counter
masses to pass some time? standard soups to choose from, fort-food sides that can be a meal and walk down the narrow flight
Whether it's a hidden base- including a spicy, peanutty ‘Ma- in themselves. You can perch at of stairs: you’ll be welcomed by
ment bar with sharing platters, laysian’, with two alternating the bar or take a seat in the vari- suffused red lights that give the
or a comfort-food café where you soups of the day. All of them come ous cosy, dimly-lit dining rooms space a secretive 1920s speakeasy
could pass a whole day, here are steaming hot, served in generous and treat yourself to some fin- you-shouldn’t-be-here kind of
a few places with the right com- portions. You can get your soup ger food staples like crispy fried vibe. Order cocktails and sharing
bination of warm, welcoming at- with a sandwich on the side if chicken with satay sauce and de- plates at the bar, and forget the
mosphere and comforting fare to you’re extra-peckish, and if you’re licious fries drowned in melted rest of the world exists. AD
see you through. not done hiding from the weath- cheese. All this, and killer cock-
er afterwards, Kaffibarinn is ten tails too. Winter blues, begone. JR
steps away. JR
OFISH & MORE
23
The Reykjavík Grapevine
Best of Reykjavík 2018
SALKA VALKA
Steamed Fresh Fish, Traditional Icelandic Fish ‘Stew’,
Fish & Vegan Soups, Smoked Salmon & Vegan Toppings
on Sourdough Bread, Beer, Wine, Coffee & more
We are her e!
by Trip Advi sor
Cert ifica te of Exce llen ce
ava lka _fi shn mor e
ww w.in sta gra m.co m/s alk
val ka2 3
ww w.fa ceb ook .com lka
/sa
SkólavörDustígur 23 • 101 reykjavík
LOCAL
FOOD AND BEER
Tasty and fun food made with fresh and local Icelandic ingredients.
We offer a unique selection of Icelandic beer– 20 bottled,
10 on draft, and artisan cocktails to enjoy alongside the food.
ICELANDIC GASTROPUB
Drop by for lunch, late lunch, dinner or drinks
in a casual and fun atmosphere.
Open 11:30–23:30 Hafnarstræti 1–3 / Tel. 555 2900 / saetasvinid.isYou can also read
