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By Daníel Bjarnason

I have a few favourite places for dining in Reykjavík, and I have listed a lot of them below. The ones I have listed all have in common the fact that they all get their ingredients straight from various farmers (and fishermen) around the country, and—believe it or not—this is a fairly new concept with restaurants in Iceland (but then again, dining in Reykjavík has changed drastically over the last few years).  So on the below places’ menus, you will frequently find explanations as to where a particular piece of fish or fowl came from and who farmed it. This is a good thing

Grillmarkaðurinn

Go with a group of people.  Or sit alone at the bar and watch the grill, which is frequently on fire.  Always packed on the weekend, so you’ll need to book ahead.

Fiskmarkaðurinn

Similar to the Grillmarkaðurinn (with some of the same owners), i.e. fun modern cuisine.  For here, I would definitely recommend the lunch sushi offer.  That’s only available on weekdays, though (I think).

Fiskifélagið

Another great fish place that belongs to the ‘New Scandinavian Cuisine’ tradition (whatever that actually means).

Hótel Holt

This one is a classic, with a beautiful interior and an amazing selection of paintings by some of Iceland’s best artists.  More conservative than the above choices, but definitely worth a visit.  Also Reykjavík’s best place for happy hour!

For pizza, I recommend Eldsmiðjan.

Raw-foodies should go to Gló or Happ.

For coffee, go to Kaffismiðjan.

Daníel Bjarnason will perform at Harpa—Eldborg at Airwaves Thursday, 20:00