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Reykjavík › Reykjavík › La Poblana
La PoblanaB+Worth Trying
Second floor, Laugavegur 12, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
· Mexican restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (578 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
Vibrant Mexican spot in central Reykjavík with standout tacos, spicy salsas, and cozy upstairs vibe; excellent food but service can be inconsistent and space is tight.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
La Poblana delivers authentic, flavorful Mexican cooking that resonates with both locals and travelers seeking genuine tacos and traditional dishes. However, inconsistent execution—occasional cold food and uneven spice handling—prevents higher grades, while variable service quality and a tight, noisy space limit the overall experience. It's a worthwhile destination for taco enthusiasts willing to accept occasional rough edges in exchange for genuine flavors and lively atmosphere.
Restaurant Summary
Up a short flight of stairs on Laugavegur, the room feels warm and bustling with colorful walls and a peek over the street below. Service swings from friendly and quick to stretched on busy nights, but many describe the welcome as genuine. One diner summed it up: "Tacos that taste like home, even far from home." However, there are some review authenticity concerns - some review patterns are consistent with solicited or influenced feedback. The cooking leans traditional Mexican with local touches—think birria with broth, carnitas, and a crisp fish taco—executed with bold, lively flavors rather than fancy tricks. Spice can run hot unless you ask for milder salsas, and portions are modest but satisfying. It suits taco hunters and travelers craving straightforward comfort done right. Families will find it workable: burritos and nachos are easy wins, while spice-sensitive kids should get sauces on the side. There is no kids menu, the space is cozy and tight, and peak-time noise can be a lot—go early for a calmer meal.
At a Glance
- Birria, carnitas, and fish tacos praised by locals and Mexican diners
- Cozy colorful upstairs setting in central Reykjavík
- Service inconsistency from warm and efficient to slow or curt
- Small space and noise at peak times
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- authentic_mexican_in_iceland
- birria_with_broth
- colorful_second_floor_setting
What People Love
- Rich birria with dunkable broth
- Crispy fish taco with pineapple salsa
- Housemade chips and trio of salsas
- Colorful vibe that feels like a quick trip to Mexico
- Vegan options that do not feel like an afterthought
Points of Concern
- Service can be inattentive at times with slow ordering or curt responses
- Space is tight; small tables and bathrooms close to diners
- Spice can be higher than expected unless requested mild
- Review patterns are consistent with potential coordination (highly enthusiastic language in some 5-star reviews) which may not reflect typical diner experience
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average CostISK 4,800-6,800 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair three tacos with a shared nachos to round out portions
- Vegan diners: order Vegan Taco plus Vegan Flautas on special days for variety
- If spice-averse, choose birria base and add salsa gradually
Perfect For
- Craving authentic tacos after sightseeing
- Casual date night with micheladas
- Small-group catch-ups before bar hopping
- Solo taco fix at the window seat
Location Insights
Area: Central shopping and nightlife street popular with locals and visitors; lively, casual, and walkable.
Safety: Generally safe, busy pedestrian area with good lighting and steady foot traffic.
Nearby: Surrounded by bars, cafes, boutiques; near Harpa and waterfront within walking distance.
MiðborgMiðborg is Reykjavík's central neighborhood, bustling with cafes, restaurants, shops, and cultural venues. The dining scene is diverse, ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, catering to both locals and visitors seeking authentic Icelandic and international cuisine.
LaugavegurLaugavegur is Reykjavík's main shopping street and a lively micro-neighborhood known for its trendy boutiques, bars, and casual dining spots. It attracts a youthful crowd and tourists looking for a vibrant urban experience with easy access to diverse food options.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–21:00
Tuesday12:00–21:00
Wednesday12:00–21:00
Thursday12:00–21:00
Friday12:00–22:00
Saturday12:00–22:00
Sunday12:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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