Words by

The Reykjavík Grapevine and Shruthi Basappa

Photo by

Joana Fontinha

Art Bicnick

There are guides and there are guides. Longevity sets us apart and for 20-plus-years we have dined, wined, ordered takeaways and visited spots once, twice, a dozen times in our quest to find the city’s best burgers, bakeries, brews and more. 

The Best of Reykjavík dining category has always reflected reality and nothing warms our hearts more than to see Newcomers graduate to winners as the years go by. Now we have winners who will have the added recognition of being Reykjavík Institutions, a badge of honour to commend establishments that have stood the test of time — so keep an eye out for the *I as you peruse our lists of what’s Best. 

Here’s to another year of deliciousness, skál!

Best Burger

2Guys

Multiple locations

Photo by Joana Fontinha

Increased locations have long equalled decreased quality when it comes to Icelandic restaurants with dreams of becoming chains. Not so for 2 Guys, who have stuck to their guns and continue to impress with their gloriously smashed burgers. This is an easy burger to devour that manages to grip your attention until the last bite. As one panellist admitted: “this was the burger I kept craving.”

RUNNER-UP

Le Kock

Tryggvagata 14

Photo by Art Bicnick

These long-reigning burger champs slid down a notch thanks to their removal of the Trump Tower. We kid. This is an excellent burger however you chomp it. House made potato buns, juicy patty, choice of smashed vs regular style, and in-house condiments all make for a gourmet tuck shop experience that no other burger joint in town has been able to replicate.

RUNNER-UP

Hagavagninn

Hofsvallagata 52

Photo by Art Bicnick

Sure, it’s tradition to get a hotdog after a swim in the local pool. But with Hagavagninn right beside Vesturbæjarlaug, many a family are opting to supplement their swim with a handy little burger at this neighbourhood spot — they are just that good. The panel especially notes the considered use of onions: pickled, caramelised and raw. A burger meal on the benches in the sun is exactly what joy feels like.