Our Favourite Spots for Fine Dining in Reykjavik
Reykjavík’s dining scene has evolved quickly in recent years. What was once a city known mainly for traditional fare is now recognized for sustainable, ingredient-driven cooking and creative kitchens.
With several restaurants featured in the Michelin Guide, visitors can experience Icelandic flavors thoughtfully reimagined by skilled local chefs.
This guide explores Reykjavík’s fine dining landscape, highlighting the city's must-visit restaurants and their unique dining experiences.
Traditional Icelandic Flavors with a Modern Twist
At the heart of Icelandic cuisine is a strong commitment to seasonality and locally sourced ingredients. Rather than looking abroad for produce, chefs focus on what can be grown, caught, or foraged within Iceland’s own landscape.
Here are some of the local ingredients that chefs often use to redefine Icelandic cuisine:
Arctic Char: Often described as a cross between salmon and trout, this fish is a staple of fine dining in Reykjavík. It’s frequently served lightly cured or pan-seared to highlight its delicate, buttery texture.
Icelandic Lamb: These sheep roam free in the Icelandic Highlands, grazing on wild herbs and moss. To highlight the meat’s natural, herb-fed flavor, chefs use techniques such as charcoal grilling or slow roasting.
Wild Herbs and Berries: Dulse (seaweed), crowberries, and arctic thyme are used to add earthy, floral notes to both savory dishes and desserts.
Using these local ingredients in new and creative ways allows chefs to tell the story of Iceland through flavor.
Discovering the Best Fine Dining in Reykjavík
Reykjavík may be small, but the quality of its restaurants often surprises visitors. What sets fine dining here apart is the relaxed atmosphere. The cooking is thoughtful and precise, yet the setting remains warm, welcoming, and true to Icelandic hospitality.
Recognition from the Michelin Guide has helped bring more attention to the city’s restaurants. It highlights how Iceland’s unique environment provides ingredients with clear, natural flavors. From carefully curated tasting menus to intimate dining rooms, Reykjavík offers a range of refined dining experiences across the city.
Navigating the Michelin Guide in Iceland
The Michelin Guide has officially put Iceland on the map. Its recommendations highlight restaurants that combine technique, creativity, and outstanding ingredients.
What makes these restaurants special is not luxury in the traditional sense. It is precision, care, and a deep respect for Icelandic produce. Dining at these spots often means tasting a story about the landscape, the seasons, and local traditions.
Here are some of the most notable names in Reykjavík’s Michelin-recognized dining scene.
1. Dill: The first Michelin-starred Icelandic restaurant
Dill is the pioneer of the New Nordic movement in Iceland. Founded by chef Gunnar Karl Gíslason, it focuses on the circular life of ingredients. The menu changes constantly to reflect what is currently available in the Icelandic wild. Expect textures and flavors that challenge your palate, like dung-smoked fish or dried rutabaga, all presented with artistic precision.
2. ÓX: An exclusive 17-seater Michelin-starred restaurant
Originally (and literally) a hidden gem, ÓX has evolved into one of the most sought-after fine dining spots in Reykjavík. Led by Chef Thráinn Freyr Vigfússon, this 17-seat restaurant offers an incredibly intimate experience. The chefs prepare and serve the food right in front of you, making this multi-course journey immersive and very memorable.
3. Tides: Modern Icelandic cuisine with a harbor view
Tides is led by Iceland's first Michelin-starred chef, Gunnar Karl Gíslason (also of Dill). The restaurant focuses on modern Icelandic cooking with a strong emphasis on open-fire techniques. Guests can enjoy reimagined classics such as salt-baked beetroot and slow-cooked lamb. With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the harbor, it’s a great place to experience fine dining in Reykjavík with a view.
4. Hosiló: A small, laid-back market-inspired fine dining restaurant
Hosiló is the perfect example of Reykjavík’s quiet excellence. It doesn’t rely on flashy marketing or grand interiors. Instead, it focuses on a weekly rotating menu that highlights whatever is freshest at the local markets. The vibe is decidedly more relaxed than a traditional white-tablecloth establishment, but the technique in the kitchen is top-tier. It’s a favorite among local foodies who appreciate a focused, high-quality menu where every dish is executed to perfection.
5. OTO: Trendy Italian-Japanese restaurant by an award-winning chef
One of the most exciting additions to the city's culinary map is OTO, headed by award-winning Icelandic chef Sigurður Laufda. This fun and lively restaurant offers a unique fusion of Japanese and Italian flavors. Think of Florentine scallops with savory ponzu. Icelandic seafood also plays a central role on the menu, tying these influences to local ingredients.
6. Sümac: Middle Eastern dishes made of Icelandic ingredients
Sümac brings a touch of North African and Middle Eastern heat to the North Atlantic. The restaurant is inspired by the bustling markets of Beirut, yet the soul of the menu is entirely Icelandic. Local chefs use the country’s famous lamb and fresh-caught fish, seasoning them with za'atar, sumac, and pomegranate. This combination creates bold, smoky flavors that offer a warm and exciting change from the more traditional local styles.
7. Matur og Drykkur: Reimagined traditional Icelandic cuisine
Matur og Drykkur (meaning Food and Drink) takes its inspiration from old Icelandic cookbooks. They take recipes that were once considered humble home cooking and elevate them into high-art fine dining. Their signature dish—a whole cod’s head—has become an iconic symbol of how Icelandic cuisine can be redefined.
The Best Wine and Small Plates at Port 9
For a taste of Reykjavík’s refined culture without a formal multi-course meal, Port 9 is an essential stop. Tucked away on a quiet side street at Veghúsastígur 9, this hidden gem is the oldest wine bar in Iceland. Its cozy lighting and intimate seating make it feel like a secret local treasure.
The wine list at Port 9 is one of the most curated in the city. To keep the experience fresh, the wines by the glass change every other week, allowing for new discoveries every visit. The bar is also a hub for local culture, regularly hosting art exhibitions and live music.
While the wine is the star, the food pairings are equally impressive. The menu features small plates designed to complement your drink, ranging from artisanal Icelandic cheeses to delicate arctic char. A local favorite is the Baked Brie with mango chutney, which offers a warm, sweet, and savory balance. Whether you are looking for a pre-dinner drink or a late-night glass of Burgundy, Port 9 offers a sophisticated atmosphere.
Where to Stay: Reykjavík Residence and Fine Dining
Choosing the right accommodation is just as important as your dinner reservation. Staying at one of the properties of Reykjavík Residence Hotel places you at the center of the city’s culinary district.
Many of the restaurants mentioned in the Michelin Guide are located within a 5 to 15-minute walk of the hotel. This makes it easy to enjoy the evening without having to think about transportation.
Furthermore, the "apartment-style" layout of the suites provides a level of comfort that traditional hotel rooms lack. After a long, indulgent tasting menu, there’s nothing quite like returning to a spacious, beautifully designed living area to relax. It offers a "home away from home" feeling that perfectly complements a luxury culinary tour.
For the ultimate experience, you can choose the Royal Suite, located in the historic residence of the former Prime Minister. This suite features a king-sized bed and a classic corner bathtub, providing a complete luxury experience in Reykjavík.
Essential Tips for Your Fine Dining Experience
Navigating the world of fine dining in Reykjavík is straightforward, but a few local insights can help you avoid common pitfalls.
Advance booking: For Michelin-starred spots like Dill or ÓX, aim to book at least 2–4 months ahead. Even for trendy spots like OTO or Sümac, a week’s notice is usually necessary for weekend sittings.
The dress code: You’ll find that "smart casual" is the gold standard. You don't need a tuxedo or a little black dress. However, swapping your hiking boots and waterproof shell for leather shoes and a nice sweater or blazer is recommended.
Service & tipping: In Iceland, the price you see on the menu is the price you pay. Service charges and VAT are included. While tipping is not expected, leaving a 5–10% gratuity for exceptional service is a kind and appreciated gesture.
Timing: Fine dining is an evening-long affair in Reykjavík. Most tasting menus require a minimum of 2.5– 3 hours. Plan accordingly if you have a Northern Lights tour booked for later in the evening.
Experience the Best Fine Dining in Reykjavík
Ultimately, fine dining in Reykjavík is an immersive cultural experience. You can taste Icelandic flavors in a whole new way, brought to life by expert and renowned local chefs. Each meal reflects the city’s connection to its land, sea, and traditions, making every dining experience unique.
By staying centrally at Reykjavík Residence, you put yourself within walking distance of the city’s top restaurants. You can explore the local food scene at your own pace and return to your comfortable base with ease.
FAQs About Fine Dining in Reykjavík
Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in Iceland?
Yes. As of 2026, Dill and ÓX in downtown Reykjavík both hold Michelin stars. Moss at the Blue Lagoon also holds a star. Several other restaurants, including Sümac, OTO, Hosiló, Matur og Drykkur, and Tides, are highly recommended by the Michelin Guide.
Is the Blue Lagoon restaurant Michelin-starred?
Yes, Moss Restaurant, located at The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, holds one Michelin star. It’s a fantastic option for those who want a high-end meal paired with a visit to a geothermal pool.
What is a must-eat in Iceland?
You should not leave without trying arctic char and Icelandic lamb, which are world-renowned for their flavor. For those looking for traditional soul food, Plokkfiskur (fish stew) and fresh rye bread baked in geothermal heat are a must-try.
Is it expensive to eat out in Reykjavík?
Iceland has a high cost of living, so expect high prices for fine dining. Expect to pay between 15,000 and 55,000 ISK per person for a full tasting menu at top-tier restaurants.
Is tipping expected at fine dining restaurants in Reykjavík?
No, tipping is not mandatory or expected in Reykjavík, as service fees are already included in the menu prices. However, a small tip for extraordinary service is always appreciated.
Do I need to make reservations at fine dining restaurants in Reykjavík?
Absolutely. Because of Reykjavík’s size and high demand, walk-ins at fine dining restaurants are rarely possible. Book a fine dining restaurant in Reykjavík at least 2–4 months in advance.
Are fine dining restaurants in Reykjavík walkable from downtown?
Yes. Many luxury hotels in Reykjavík, like Reykjavík Residence, are just a 5 to 15-minute walk from the city's high-end restaurants. This makes it easy to enjoy the best-tasting menus in Reykjavík without needing a taxi.
