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 Brunch
Winner
Kastrup
Hverfisgata 6
Photo by Art Bicnick
When four intrepid foodies get together to try every brunch in Reykjavík, you best believe only the best make the cut. Kastrup wowed us with their consistently well poached eggs, a menu that delivered what was promised (sadly a rarity in Reykjavík), AND a mimosa to round off that perfect brunch experience at just 1.500 kr. per glass! “I return for the variety, quality and presentation,” shared one regular, adding that they particularly like having the option to switch it up with smørrebrød instead of the more classic brunch plates. The starched white tablecloths and wide open windows by the street lend it an air of ease and the service makes it all the more welcoming. Portions are generous and we encourage you to share so you don’t walk out in a food coma, but that is perhaps the only way one should spend the weekend.
RUNNER-UP
Brút
Pósthússtræti 2
Photo by Art Bicnick
Buffets can easily become boring or worse, uninspired, but Brút has avoided the pitfalls of predictability by continuing to dish up hillocks of freshly tossed salads, imaginative takes on classic combinations and balancing the proportion of salads and vegetables with the warm plates on offer. Sure, it feels slightly off to have fish in a creamy sauce on a brunch menu, but maybe it’s the chill vibe or that they are known for their seafood, but it somehow makes sense. Its real success, however, lies in the fact that it’s a quirky, healthy-leaning selection that manages to cater to different age groups and preferences. What’s better than a brunch that serves almost everyone?
RIP. Since our panel decision, this business closed.
RUNNER-UP
Hraðlestin
Grandagarður 23
“Easily the most inspired and tasty brunch for me,” one panellist shares. “Not the same old sourdough toast with avocado or a poached egg, which makes it likely that I will bring friends along so we can all try something different together,” said another. Hraðlestin digs into India’s rich tradition of breakfast and tiffin, making dosas, bhaturas and appams a reality in Iceland. Food capitals may have embraced regional Indian food before us, but one bite of the shatteringly crisp Chennai-style masala dosa or the Punjabi bhatura with kheema, and you’d know we are fast catching up.
Previous Winners
2024: Brut
2023: Brut
2022: Coocoo’s Nest
2021: Coocoo’s Nest
2020: The Coocoo’s Nest
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