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.
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.
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.
Area vibe: 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.
What's nearby: Near Laugavegur and Harpa waterfront axis; shops, bars, tour pickups and hotels close by.