Destination-worthy Icelandic grill with dramatic ambiance, standout lamb and reindeer, creative plates and polished service; pricey, with occasional service inconsistencies and controversial whale/puffin offerings.
Grillmarkaðurinn stands among Reykjavík's finest dining establishments through exceptional food quality anchored by standout lamb, reindeer, and salmon preparations, paired with attentive, celebratory service that elevates special occasions. The dramatic lava-rock interior and strong destination appeal justify premium pricing for diners seeking bold, ingredient-led Nordic cuisine in a moody, polished setting. Minor consistency variation in portions and occasional service pacing don't diminish overall grade A performance.
Down a central Reykjavík side street, Grillmarkaðurinn opens into a moody space of stone, timber, and glow where the room feels warm and bustling. Servers are often thoughtful and polished, guiding diners through game meats and pairings. One guest put it simply: "The service made our celebration feel truly special." Do note occasional reports of slow pacing on peak nights. The cooking leans contemporary Nordic with playful twists—think lamb with bright accents, miso-kissed salmon, and reindeer sliders—more produce-driven creativity than theatrics, save for the melting chocolate sphere. It suits diners who enjoy bold, ingredient-led plates and are open to rare-leaning preparations. Pricing is high for Reykjavík, but many feel quality and atmosphere justify the spend. Families should know the menu trends adventurous: game meats and rare-leaning proteins dominate, though salmon, steaks, fries, mashed potatoes, and ice cream offer safe havens. There is a vegan main and several veg sides, but there is no clear kids menu. For cautious eaters, stick to classic-friendly choices like salmon, tenderloin, fries, and the chocolate dessert.
Area vibe: Central, walkable downtown with tourists and locals; stylish bars and design-forward venues nearby.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, high foot traffic; typical downtown nightlife bustle.
What's nearby: Near Lækjartorg and main shopping streets; close to galleries, hotels, and the harbor area.
Choose game-forward small plates like the Reindeer Mini Burgers and then a lamb chop or grilled salmon main, plus the dramatic chocolate sphere for dessert.
It’s upscale-casual and reservations are recommended, but be prepared for slow pacing on busy nights and modest side portions.
Expect a dramatic, moody interior with lava-rock and timber and a lively, celebratory energy on busy evenings.