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Reykjavík › Reykjavík › Arabian Taste
Arabian TasteBWorth Trying
Laugavegur 87, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
· Syrian restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (1291 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
Crowd-pleasing Syrian shawarma and falafel at student-friendly prices; great late-night option with some reported service and consistency hiccups.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Arabian Taste delivers reliable quality shawarma and dips with exceptional value for central Reykjavík, earning solid neighborhood restaurant status. However, inconsistent execution—ranging from juicy meats to dry chicken across visits—and limited seating with plain ambiance prevent a higher grade. The convenient Laugavegur location and loyal repeat customer base confirm its role as a dependable casual destination rather than a standout establishment.
Restaurant Summary
On Reykjavík’s main drag, this fast-casual spot keeps the grills humming late with shawarma, falafel, and dips that many travelers call warm and welcoming. Expect counter ordering, quick handoffs, and friendly smiles. One diner put it simply: spices were spot on and the baba ghanoush tasted fresh. A few visits run long or go sideways with mix-ups, but most leave full and content. Cooking leans classic Syrian street fare over flash: shawarma on plates or in wraps, falafel, kibbeh, and creamy hummus. It is comfort-first, not experimental, with value that feels student friendly by Iceland standards. On strong nights the meats are juicy and dips shine; on off nights critics cite dry chicken or light seasoning. Families do well here: there is a kids menu with smaller shawarmas and a falafel roll, plus fries and simple sauces. Picky eaters can stick to chicken wraps and chips, while adventurous kids can try falafel or hummus. Portions are sensible and the counter format keeps things easy.
At a Glance
- Flavorful shawarma, falafel, and dips praised by many
- Student-friendly pricing for central Reykjavík
- Occasional long waits and order inaccuracies
- Mixed reports on chicken dryness and fries oil quality
- Counter-service model; limited seating at peak hours
What Sets It Apart
- late_hours_on_laugavegur
- budget_friendly_for_iceland
- vegan_falafel_options
- kids_menu_availability
What People Love
- Warm spices and fresh dips
- Friendly, welcoming staff
- Reliable late hours
- Filling plates with rice and salad
- Vegan-friendly falafel options
Points of Concern
- Waits can stretch to 30-60 minutes during rushes or due to missed tickets
- Order accuracy issues reported (wrong meat or sides)
- Inconsistent fry oil quality mentioned in two recent reviews
- Some diners found chicken dry or seasoning mild
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average CostISK 3,700-5,000 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Choose plates (ISK ~2,590-2,890) for better portion value
- Add hummus or baba ghanoush (ISK 990-1,190) to round out the meal
- Kids shawarma (ISK 1,590) is a solid smaller option
Perfect For
- Late-night bite after exploring Laugavegur
- Budget-friendly casual meal in the city center
- Quick halal-friendly option
- Group of friends grabbing takeout
Location Insights
Area: Busy central shopping and nightlife street popular with tourists and locals; late-night foot traffic.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit main avenue with steady pedestrian activity.
Nearby: Surrounded by bars, cafes, and shops; competing kebab/shawarma spots nearby; convenient for hotel guests.
MiðborgMiðborg is Reykjavík's central neighborhood, characterized by a mix of historic and modern buildings, pedestrian-friendly streets, and a lively dining scene that includes casual eateries, fine dining, and international cuisine. The area is popular for its accessibility and vibrant social atmosphere.
LaugavegurLaugavegur is Reykjavík's main shopping street and a focal point for nightlife and dining, featuring a variety of restaurants, bars, and boutiques. It is a bustling area known for its energetic vibe and diverse culinary offerings.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:00–23:00
Tuesday10:00–23:00
Wednesday10:00–23:00
Thursday10:00–23:00
Friday10:00–02:00
Saturday11:00–02:00
Sunday11:00–23:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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