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 Food Hall
Winner
Pósthús Mathöll
Pósthússtræti 5
Photo by Art Bicnick
Out of the many, many, many mathölls in town, this one is perhaps the most memorable given its distinct architecture (as the name implies, it used to be a post office) and stunning interiors. This is one foodhall that boasts of the most selection of good food compared to the competition. Choose from simply made pastas at Enoteca, or a platter of sushi at Djusi Sushi, or blistered pizzas at Pizza Populare. Walk to the back and you will even find an indoor courtyard with a cocktail bar. There is plenty of seating across all levels, a variety of food to meet diet and budget concerns and if you don’t mind the peak hour chatter of tables too close by, you can have an enjoyable meal in a storied house.
RUNNER-UP
Grandi Mathöll
Grandagarður 16
Bright and airy with spectacular views of Harpa and the harbour, this mathöll remains one of those attractions that somewhat flies under the radar, peaking at lunch and quieter come evening. Grandi foodhall has the most diverse establishments amongst its peers; there is Indonesian at Ira’s, fried chicken sandwiches at Gastrotruck and hearty Icelandic fare at Fjarhúsið. Bonus? The seating areas are spacious enough to allow for conversation.
RUNNER-UP
Hafnartorg Gallery
Geirsgata 17
“The darkest of them all,” quips one panellist. No matter the time of day, it always feels like late night here at Hafnartorg. But despite the sports bar vibe in some corners, this food hall is large with a challengingly small selection of good food to choose from. But what is good is worth a dekko: La Trattoria with their Italian menu, Brand serving up steaks and other grill house classics, in addition to moules-frites and bistro fare at La Cuisine.
Previous Winners
2024: Pósthús Mathöll
2023: Hlemmur Mathöll
2022: Borg 29
2021: Hlemmur Mathöll
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