Stylish downtown spot for creative Icelandic-inspired tasting menus and polished service; pricey, popular, and best for adventurous eaters.
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.
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.
Area vibe: 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.
What's nearby: Steps from Laugavegur, Harpa and harbor within walking distance; dense bar and restaurant scene.
Go for the ISK 15,900 Icelandic 7-course tasting menu or pick seafood mains like Pan Fried Cod Loin and Arctic Char priced around ISK 5,330 each
Reserve ahead, dress smart-casual, and expect lively evenings with refined, sometimes small tasting-style portions and higher drink costs
Set in a historic former pharmacy, the room is stylish and warm with inventive cocktails and attentive service