Best Food Halls in Reykjavík

While Iceland’s scenery usually steals the spotlight, Reykjavík’s food scene is a destination in its own right. As the country’s culinary center, the capital offers everything from traditional Icelandic food to cutting-edge international fusion. 

For those who want to taste it all, the food halls in Reykjavík are the ultimate stop. These gastronomic hubs are perfect for groups with diverse tastes or adventurous foodies who prefer a “sampling” approach to dinner.

Food Halls in Reykjavík Worth Trying

To navigate the local Reykjavík food scene, head to a food hall, locally known as a mathöll. These communal hubs have turned historic spaces into social dining landmarks, inviting tourists to share a bite with the locals. From former bus terminals to harbor-side warehouses, these top picks are must-visits on DIY trips and guided food tours.

Hlemmur Mathöll

A pioneer in the capital, Hlemmur Mathöll occupies a repurposed bus terminal at Laugavegur 107. It was the first of its kind among Reykjavík food halls; for a brief time, it stood as the city’s only mathöll. Today, Hlemmur remains a top choice for its gritty yet gourmet atmosphere. The space is high-energy and unpretentious, perfect for a morning coffee or a local craft beer as the sun sets.

• The Food: Expect a high-quality mix ranging from artisanal sourdough pizza at Flatey to hearty Icelandic lamb at more traditional Icelandic cuisine at Fjárhúsið. For a change of pace, you’ll find authentic Vietnamese street food at Halló xin chào. Their banh mi is a local favorite.

Grandi Mathöll

Located in a refurbished fish-baiting shed at Grandagarður 16 101, Grandi Mathöll reflects the maritime spirit of the Old Harbor. The airy, harbor-side haunt is a scenic 15-minute walk from the famous Harpa Concert Hall. 

It’s an ideal pit stop after a stroll along the waterfront. High ceilings and industrial windows overlook the local fishing fleet, giving diners an authentic backdrop for a casual meal.

• The Food: This hall highlights eateries that put a modern, global spin on Icelandic ingredients. It’s the one-stop shop for all cravings, from classic crispy fish at Frystihúsið to Korean-fusion tacos and tteokbokki at Kore. For those looking to unwind, the central bar offers a curated selection of wine and local craft beers.

Pósthús Food Hall and Bar

Inside a meticulously restored post office from the 1910s lies Pósthús Food Hall and Bar, a standout addition to downtown Reykjavík. It embraces a more refined aesthetic than most food halls in Reykjavík, with high ceilings and polished brass accents. Drykk, a sleek cocktail and coffee bar, anchors the room. 

Pósthús is a favorite for its sophisticated atmosphere, where locals and travelers gather and relax with delicious food and cocktails. Try to arrive early on weekends, as this central hub fills up fast with the local pre-party crowd.

• The Food: The selection is impressively varied. Fresh poke bowls and high-end sushi are available at Djúsí Sushi. Meanwhile, enjoy French cuisine at Finsen and bold Indian-fusion at Funky Bhangra. For something more classic, there are artisanal pizzas and gourmet burgers as well.

Hafnartorg Gallery Food Hall

Located just a stone’s throw from the Harpa Concert Hall, this sleek newcomer is a modern highlight among Reykjavík food halls. It feels a little bit like an upscale culinary gallery, seamlessly blending into the city’s newest luxury shopping district. 

The glass-fronted space is bright, polished, and contemporary, an elegant choice for a pre-theater meal or a stylish lunch. Among locals, it is a favorite for apéritifs and a sophisticated happy hour.

• The Food: The focus here is precision and expertly crafted cuisine. Look for charcoal-grilled delicacies and fine wines at Brand Vín & Grill, or adventurous French-Asian fusion at Black Dragon. You can also find colorful poke bowls at Kualua and high-end Italian plates at La Trattoria. For those looking to linger, the central bar offers an impressive selection of French wine and local craft beer.

Borg29 Mathöll

Head to the heart of the business district at Borgartún 29, 105 to visit Borg29 Mathöll. Because of its proximity to corporate offices, it is a favorite for the local lunch crowd. Find a hub buzzing with a professional energy that transitions into a relaxed "after-work" haunt by evening. 

The interior is modern and polished, but the real draw is the outdoor terrace. It’s a fantastic spot to catch the Icelandic sun and bask in the views of Mount Esja and the Atlantic.

• The Food: The vendors here prioritize quality and efficiency. Savor local favorites like Yuzu for their famous Asian-fusion burgers, Natalía for Neapolitan pizza, and Indican for Indian home-style cooking. It’s great for sampling creative meals at a more accessible price than traditional sit-down restaurants in Reykjavík.

Mathöll Höfða

For those venturing slightly out of the city center toward the Höfði district, Mathöll Höfða is a fantastic local find. It features a spacious, airy atmosphere that feels distinctly local. Here, you’ll discover a destination for travelers who want to dine where the residents actually do. The vibe is casual, family-friendly, and unhurried, providing a refreshing alternative to the high-energy food halls in Reykjavík.

• The Food: This hall offers a generous variety of comfort food from around the globe. Grab Mexican bowls and burritos at Culiacán, hearty Indian dishes at Tandoori Palace, or massive burgers at Beef and Buns. If you’re craving local staples, Skipperinn serves up excellent fish and chips, while Talay’s Pizza offers artisanal pies.

Kúmen Food Court

Tucked inside the Kringlan shopping mall, Kúmen is a modern evolution of the traditional food court. It’s currently the largest of the food halls in Reykjavík by vendor count. Located on the third floor, this bright, high-design space is a far cry from sterile mall dining. Kúmen serves as a convenient sanctuary for shoppers and a quick bite before going to the nearby cinema for fresh, curated meals at Kringlan.

• The Food: Indulge in an expansive selection of quick-service quality. The stalls serve a range of options, including specialized noodle dishes, fresh salads, and Mediterranean sandwiches. It’s a reliable one-stop shop for Reykjavík food during a mid-spree refuel or a pre-cinema dinner.

Your Reykjavík Food Adventure Starts Here

Whether you’re enjoying artisanal pizza or sipping craft cocktails, the food halls in Reykjavík are a slice of modern Icelandic life. At these lively hubs, Icelandic food revolves around local ingredients, community, and global flair.

Once you’ve had your fill of downtown's tastiest dishes, head toward the hills to Perlan. After exploring its indoor ice cave, head to the fourth-floor ice cream parlor for a scoop of homemade gelato. As the day winds down, step onto the 360-degree observation deck for the best panoramic view in Iceland.

FAQs About Food Halls in Reykjavík

What kind of food is Reykjavík known for?

While you'll find plenty of global fusion, Reykjavík is famous for its fresh-off-the-boat seafood, Icelandic lamb, and legendary hot dogs. For a local staple, look for plokkfiskur (fish stew) or a bowl of creamy langoustine soup.

How to eat cheaply in Reykjavík?

Dining out isn’t cheap, but food halls are a solid middle ground with daily specials, hot dogs, and sourdough pizzas. The tap water in Iceland is world-class and always free; just bring a reusable bottle.

How do food halls work in Iceland?

Food halls are simple: browse the stalls, order and pay at your counter, and take a buzzer to your table. Most halls use communal seating, so don't be shy about sharing a long table with locals.

Is it customary to tip in Reykjavík food halls?

No, tipping is not expected; service charges and VAT are already baked into the menu price. While a small tip for exceptional service at a sit-down bar is a kind gesture, it is never an obligation.

Is there live music in Reykjavík food halls?

Yes, particularly on weekends. Pósthús Food Hall and Hafnartorg Gallery frequently host DJs or live sets on Friday and Saturday nights.

Are there food tours in Reykjavík?

Absolutely; several companies offer guided walking tours through downtown. Many of these tours actually use the local food halls in Reykjavík as key tasting stops.