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Reykjavík › Reykjavík › Höfnin Restaurant
Höfnin RestaurantAMust Try
Geirsgata 7, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
· Icelandic restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (1367 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
Scenic harbor-side Icelandic spot delivering reliably tasty seafood and lamb with warm service; prices are fair for Reykjavik and kid-friendly options make it easy for groups.
Why it gets an A for overall quality
Höfnin exemplifies what makes Icelandic harbor dining exceptional through exceptional seafood and lamb preparation paired with genuinely welcoming service and stunning waterfront views. The restaurant balances ingredient-focused cooking with modern polish, generous portions, and family-friendly accessibility—all hallmarks of grade A neighborhood excellence. Minor consistency variations in seasoning and occasional service pacing during peak times prevent a higher tier, but this remains a must-visit destination for authentic Icelandic cuisine.
Restaurant Summary
Set along the working marina, this room feels warm and cozy with big-window views of boats and snowy hills. Servers are genuinely welcoming, and more than one diner recalls the owner personally explaining dishes. One guest said, "The harbor view set the tone and the team looked after us all evening." The cooking leans Icelandic and ingredient-led rather than flashy—think fish of the day, fish stew, shellfish soup, and slow-cooked lamb—classic flavors with modern polish. Plates are substantial and the seafood is often praised as fresh and well-cooked, though a few note occasional saltiness or thinner soups when busy. If you want a taste of the local catch without white-tablecloth formality, this is a sweet spot. Families are welcome here. There is a dedicated kids section with burgers and fish options that include ice cream, plus approachable staples like fish and chips and skyr. Portions are generous, pricing is reasonable for Reykjavik, and staff make large groups work with minimal fuss.
At a Glance
- Harbor views and cozy atmosphere elevate the experience
- Seafood and lamb consistently praised with generous portions
- Kid menu with dessert included makes family dining easy
- Occasional service lags and variability in soup seasoning
- Peak-time waits between courses can occur
What Sets It Apart
- wide harbor views
- Icelandic staples done well
- kid menu with dessert included
What People Love
- Harbor window tables at sunset
- Rich shellfish soup and tender lamb
- House skyr that finishes light
- Friendly servers and owner attention
- Generous portions that feel like value
Points of Concern
- Service can slow after mains during peak hours; plan extra time
- A few reports of salty fish or thin soup; consistency not perfect
- Promotional dishes like mussels may underwhelm and arrive slowly
- Outdoor seating depends on weather despite heaters and blankets
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average CostISK 10,500-14,500 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For pescatarians, pair shellfish soup with fish of the day and skyr
- Families: kids fish and chips includes ice cream, easing dessert decisions
- Vegan diners: choose Tomato-coconut soup and Vegan nut steak for a full meal
Perfect For
- Scenic seafood lunch by the marina
- Comforting Icelandic classics without formality
- Family dinners with varied tastes
- Groups seeking reliable crowd-pleasers
Location Insights
Area: Harborfront tourist-friendly area with scenic views, mix of travelers and locals exploring the waterfront.
Safety: Well-trafficked, generally safe, good lighting and active businesses along the quay.
Nearby: Near whale-watching docks, museums, hotels, and other harbor eateries; easy strolling area.
101 Reykjavík101 Reykjavík is the heart of the city, featuring a lively dining scene with a variety of restaurants ranging from casual eateries to fine dining. The area is popular for its accessibility, harbor views, and a mix of traditional Icelandic and international cuisine, attracting both locals and visitors.
Old HarbourThe Old Harbour area is known for its maritime atmosphere, seafood restaurants, and picturesque views of the bay. It has become a culinary hotspot in Reykjavík, blending historic charm with modern gastronomy focused on fresh, local ingredients.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–14:00, 17:30–21:00
Tuesday11:30–14:00, 17:30–21:00
Wednesday11:30–14:00, 17:30–21:00
Thursday11:30–14:00, 17:30–22:00
Friday11:30–14:00, 17:30–22:00
Saturday11:30–14:00, 17:30–22:00
Sunday11:30–14:00, 17:30–21:00
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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