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Reykjavík › Reykjavík › Apotek Restaurant
Apotek RestaurantA-Worth Trying
Austurstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
· Restaurant, Eclectic restaurant, European restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (2971 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
Stylish downtown spot for creative Icelandic-inspired tasting menus and polished service; pricey, popular, and best for adventurous eaters.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Apotek delivers solid A-grade performance through exceptional food quality and outstanding service attentiveness, anchored by a distinctive historic setting that elevates the dining experience. Inconsistent seasoning and occasional execution lapses prevent grade A territory, while isolated food safety reports warrant attention though they remain non-systemic. The refined Icelandic tasting menu and inventive cocktail program position it competitively among Reykjavík's better neighborhood restaurants.
Restaurant Summary
In a landmark space that once housed Reykjavík’s main pharmacy, Apotek blends heritage with polish. The room feels stylish and warm, cocktails lean inventive, and service is often attentive and kind. As one diner put it, "Courses looked like little artworks and the staff kept the pace just right." The kitchen takes Icelandic staples and gives them a creative contemporary twist: lamb in multiple preparations, tender cod and Arctic char, and a skyr finale that reads light and local. Expect refined plating rather than theatrics, with seasoning that can run bold. Adventurous options like puffin or horse appear on tasting menus; choose accordingly if that is not your thing. Families are welcome, but the menu skews adventurous and refined. Confident young eaters may enjoy simple fish or a burger-style fish main and desserts, but there is no obvious kid menu. For picky eaters, a simpler lunch set may be wiser than the tasting route.
At a Glance
- Elegant historic setting with polished, friendly service
- Creative Icelandic tasting menus and strong cocktail program
- Seasoning can be assertive; a few inconsistency reports
- Pricey for Reykjavík, though aligned with upscale peers
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- historic_pharmacy_building
- creative_icelandic_tasting_menu
- strong_cocktail_program
What People Love
- Emotion of a celebratory night out
- Refined seafood and lamb dishes
- Inventive pharmacy-inspired cocktails
- Historic room with retro-modern design
- Thoughtful course pacing
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (mains around ISK 4.6k–5.3k; tasting menus cost more) which may surprise casual diners
- Occasional reports of oversalting or tougher beef amid otherwise strong meals
- A few isolated service missteps on busy or festival nights (sequence errors, inexperienced staff)
- Adventurous items like puffin or horse can be polarizing; confirm selections before ordering
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average CostISK 14,000-19,000 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Creamy Cognac Lobster Soup (ISK ~3,610) before a cod or char main
- Choose Skyr Fantasia (ISK ~2,640) if you want a light dessert
- For plant-forward diners, Baked Cauliflower (vegan) is a safe opener
Perfect For
- Date night with cocktails
- Special-occasion tasting menu
- Food-focused travelers exploring local cuisine
- Small groups seeking a stylish evening
Location Insights
Area: Historic downtown street mixing boutiques, bars, and culture; popular with visitors and locals alike.
Safety: Well-lit, busy pedestrian area; generally safe with steady foot traffic into late evening.
Nearby: Steps from Laugavegur, Harpa and harbor within walking distance; dense bar and restaurant scene.
MiðborgMiðborg is Reykjavík's central neighborhood, characterized by a lively atmosphere with numerous restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. The dining scene is diverse, ranging from casual eateries to high-end restaurants, often featuring Icelandic and Nordic cuisine. It is a popular area for socializing and experiencing Icelandic culture.
AusturstrætiAusturstræti is a well-known street in downtown Reykjavík famous for its vibrant nightlife, boutique shops, and a variety of dining options including modern Icelandic and international cuisine. It is a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for a lively and stylish environment.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–22:00
Tuesday11:30–22:00
Wednesday11:30–22:00
Thursday11:30–22:00
Friday11:30–23:00
Saturday11:30–23:00
Sunday11:30–22:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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