Best Of Reykjavik 2019: Best Late Night Bite

Watching Iceland come into its own as a dining destination over the past five years has been a joy. The Icelandic restaurant scene is diversifying, and the definition of what may be deemed “Icelandic cuisine” is broadening and taking on new shapes. Thanks to this new-found culinary confidence—and the added footfall of tourism—this tiny scene is experiencing an unprecedented moment of opportunity. Whether it’s carefully-pleated Sichuanese vegan dumplings or exploratory tasting menus at Nordic fine dining houses, the bandwagon has room for demanding diners. Our hand-picked panel of picky gourmands have sought out the very best of Reykjavík dining to help you navigate the gastronomic waters of the capital area. From budget bites to fanciful fare, we’ve got you covered.

Best Late Night Bite

Mandi

Veltusund 3b

Mandi can’t possibly be a controversial choice. A Syrian kebab spot that’s universally loved in Reykjavík, check out the crispy falafel, lamb wraps and fries covered with a mystery white sauce. Newly renovated with increased seating, and reliably open into the early hours, you won’t find a better place to pass out face-first into a plate of lamb shawarma at five in the morning, or stumble home with that hangover-battling late night bite.

Runner-Up:

Nonnabiti

Hafnarstræti 9

“This is the guiltiest of guilty comfort food,” declared one aging and expanding panellist. Their sandwiches are piled with shredded meat with onions and dripping with sauce and meat juices. This will make you forget about striking out on the dancefloor faster than you can say “HvarertuSiggi!?”

Runner-Up:

Devitos

Laugavegur 126

Anyway you slice it, Devitos will set your late night belly rumbles right. If you were born in the 80s, then chances are you’ve binged on a late-night bite at Devitos. Available by the slice or as whole pies, if you’re in town on a weekend, Devitos will be your last stop before Neverland.

Previous Winners

2017-8: Mandi
2016: Ali Baba
2016: Fish and Chips

Other Dining Categories

Best Burger

Best Vegan Burger

Best Pizza

Best Sushi

Best Indian

Best Chinese

Best Thai

Best Italian

Best Gastropub

Best Lamb

Best Soup

Best Vegan Meal

Best Seafood

Best Goddamn Restaurant

Best Family Restaurant

Best Lunch

Best Brunch

Best Cheap Meal

Best Place For A Fancy Meal

Best Tasting Menu

Best Late Night Bite

Best Place For A Group

Best Bakery

Best Coffeehouse

Best Ice Cream

Best Newcomer

Best Must-Try Dining Experience

You can buy a copy of the full Best Of Reykjavík 2019 magazine—an essential guide to having fun in Reykjavík—here, posted worldwide. We also have a Special Offer double-pack that also includes our Best Of Iceland magazine, about places to eat, see, swim, shop and stay, all around the country, here.