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Reykjavík › Reykjavík › 101 Bistro
101 BistroB+Worth Trying
Austurstræti 3, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
· Restaurant, Bistro, Fish & chips restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1210 reviews)
Takeout · Outdoor seating
Casual bistro in central Reykjavík for solid fish and chips and personal pizzas, friendly service, and fair prices for the area, though occasional service lapses and inconsistency appear.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
101 Bistro delivers reliable comfort dining with solid food quality highlighted by flaky fish and well-executed pizzas, supported by friendly, efficient service. However, inconsistent execution—occasional greasy batches or bland pasta—prevents a higher grade. The warm downtown location and straightforward menu make it a dependable neighborhood stop rather than a destination, competitive with the area's better casual restaurants.
Restaurant Summary
Set in the heart of 101, this bistro feels warm and bustling without being chaotic. Guests praise the friendly team and quick flow, with one diner saying the fish arrived "hot and flaky" and the pizza crust was "spot on." It is an easygoing downtown stop for a relaxed meal and local beer. The cooking leans classic rather than experimental: flaky fish and chips, personal pizzas with lively tomato sauce, and unfussy salads. When the fryer is dialed in, plates shine; a few reviews note occasional grease or bland pasta, but most find reliable comfort after a long day exploring. Ideal for travelers who want straightforward, satisfying fare in the center. For families, the menu is naturally kid-friendly: cheese or pepperoni pizza, fries, burgers, and mild fish and chips. There is no specific kids menu, but portions and prices are manageable for Reykjavík, and staff are accommodating with simple tweaks. Veg options like margherita, hummus, and salads help mixed groups.
At a Glance
- Flaky fish and chips often praised for light, crisp batter
- Personal pizzas with springy, well-charred dough and flavorful sauce
- Friendly, efficient staff and cozy central location
- Occasional inconsistency—greasy fish or bland pasta on off days
- Can feel cramped at peak times
What Sets It Apart
- central_101_location
- reliable_fish_and_chips
- brick_oven_pizzas
What People Love
- Comforting fish and chips after a chilly day
- Tomato sauce on margherita that tastes extra bright
- Relaxed, central setting that is easy to find
- Staff who are upbeat and attentive
Points of Concern
- Fryer inconsistency: a few reports of oily fish or soggy fries
- Service can be brusque or slow during rushes
- Tight seating when full; outdoor tables are limited
- Pricing is fair for Reykjavík center but not cheap
- Review patterns are balanced; occasional extreme negatives appear isolated rather than systemic
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average CostISK 5,800-7,800 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For veg-forward diners: House Salad + Hummus with flatbread for a lighter combo
- Share a Caprese and one pizza for two if you plan dessert
- Families: Cheese pizza plus Small Fries keeps costs predictable
Perfect For
- Casual dinner after tours
- Group catch-ups in downtown
- Family meal with kids who like pizza
- Quick bite with local beer
Location Insights
Area: Central Reykjavík shopping and dining corridor with steady tourist flow and locals, casual and lively day-to-night.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, busy pedestrian area; typical city-center pickpocket vigilance recommended.
Nearby: Near Laugavegur and Harpa waterfront axis; shops, bars, tour pickups and hotels close by.
MiðborgMiðborg is Reykjavík's downtown core, featuring a lively dining scene with a variety of casual and upscale restaurants, cafes, and bars. The area is pedestrian-friendly and popular for both locals and visitors seeking diverse culinary experiences in a bustling yet accessible environment.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–22:30
Tuesday11:00–22:30
Wednesday11:00–22:30
Thursday11:00–22:30
Friday11:00–23:00
Saturday11:00–23:00
Sunday11:00–23:00
Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating
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