From Iceland — Grapevine’s Best Of 2016: Best Lunch Place

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Reykjavík is a relatively small city, but even so, sometimes you need a bit of local advice to find what you’re looking for, whether it’s a good people-watching spot, somewhere to see some contemporary art, or the best place to catch an Icelandic movie. Don’t worry, friends—we’ve got you covered via our Best of Reykjavík 2016 series. Here are some of our favourite spots in Reykjavík, for all kinds of super-fun days and nights out. Enjoy! And if you try our list, you can let us know what you thought of the selections via letters@grapevine.is.

Best Lunch Place

Winner: Ostabúðin
Skólavörðustígur 8
Ostabúðin was previously named as a contender for the best seafood joint in Rekjavík. However, where it really shines is at lunchtime. It makes great fish of the day and a delicious fish soup. It’s the place where downtown professionals grab a no-bullshit lunch with a side of still-warm bread. It’s been open for over a decade, which, in Reykjavík, is about as consistent as anything has ever been. There is also a gourmet grocery shop on the main floor, so grab something to take home as well.

Runner up: Bergsson Mathús
Templarasund 3
Bergsson Mathús makes a great lunch with wonderful accompanying salads. Jamie Oliver stopped by there when he visited Reykjavík with his family. With two locations—one downtown and the other in the Grandi harbour area—it’s never too far away.

Runner up: Jómfrúin
Lækjargata 4
Jómfrúin makes classic Danish and Scandinavian dishes. You eat your open faced sandwiches while taking sips of aquavit. The shrimp pyramid has become a popular dish, but, recently after the Euro Cup, so has the salty “Portuguese” dish.