They say that adversity breeds creativity; that adage has certainly held true for Reykjavík restaurants. When we first started to put together the Best of Reykjavík issue it was slim pickings, but over the years, decision making has increasingly become a less-straightforward affair. This has really been one of our most challenging dining editions to put together, as we were spoilt for choice both in terms of quality as well as consistency. Restaurants old and new have a post-pandemic energy about them, and we’re delighted to once again grace their tables. We’ve chomped, chewed and gulped our way around this fine city, all in the name of bringing the very best that Reykjavík has to offer you, dear gourmands.
Best Vegan Burger
Multiple locations
Photo by Art Bicnick
Yuzu’s vegan-vegetarian burgers are miles above their meaty counterparts. There, we said it! The vegan burger is a portobello mushroom, whole, in lieu of a patty, while the vegetarian Beyond Meat burger basks in the warm glow of sesame oil-muskiness and citrusy coriander. Perfect for newly minted vegetarian and meat lovers alike, it’s a nice departure from the standard burger, but still faithful to its roots.
Runner-Up:
Tryggvagata 14
Photo by Art Bicnick
“I’m not even vegan, but this is the one vegan burger I always get,” quips our panellist. If that isn’t high praise, we don’t know what is. Unlike the ubiquitous supermarket shelf patty, Le Kock leans into the smashed burger trend with their crispy, lace-edged smoked barley and bean burger. That smokiness lends a deeply satisfying note, and the savoury pineapple-ginger BBQ sauce compliments it perfectly.
Fond Farewell:
Vesturgata 12
Photo by Art Bicnick
For years the brothers behind Bio Borgari have walked the talk of earth-friendly good food—so much that they even have their own farm supplying the cosy restaurant with seasonal, fresh produce. Their pulse and bean patties are a cut above the rest, and their commitment to excellence is visible in the care that they put into every element of their burgers, from handmade condiments to IG-worthy construction. We were devastated to hear they are closing their shop, but rest easy in the knowledge that they’re planning other ventures soon.
Previous Winners
2021: Veganæs
2020: Bio Borgari
2019: Junkyard
You can buy a copy of the full Best Of Reykjavík 2022 magazine—an essential guide to having fun in Reykjavík—here, posted worldwide.
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