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Reykjavík › Reykjavík › Matarkjallarinn
MatarkjallarinnA-Worth Trying
Aðalstræti 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
· Restaurant, Cocktail bar, Icelandic restaurant
· 4.8/5 Google (1203 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
Cozy historic-basement spot for modern Icelandic tasting menus and standout lamb and cod; great cocktails and live piano, with premium prices and occasional service pace hiccups.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Matarkjallarinn delivers exceptional food quality anchored by standout Nordic preparations—flaky cod, tender lamb, and precisely executed scallops—paired with attentive, friendly service and a charming historic basement setting with live piano. Consistency shows occasional variation in execution and pacing during peak hours, preventing the higher distinction needed for grade A territory. Premium pricing feels justified by ingredient quality and care, making it a competitive choice among Reykjavík's better dining establishments.
Restaurant Summary
Set in a historic cellar downtown, Matarkjallarinn feels warm and intimate with moody lighting and a gentle soundtrack of live piano. Service is usually friendly and attentive, and plates arrive looking polished. One diner summed it up: "We left feeling truly cared for and very full." The cooking leans modern Nordic with creative flourishes rather than theatrics: flaky slow-cooked cod, tender glazed lamb, bright tuna tartare, and scallops that balance richness and acidity. Tasting menus suit first-timers who want a curated tour, while the cocktail list rewards exploration. Pricing is premium but quality ingredients and careful preparation make it feel worth the splurge for most guests. Families do dine here, but the menu skews refined. Kids who enjoy simple steak or fish may do fine; there is no dedicated children menu. Consider sharing starters like baked brie or choosing straightforward mains such as beef or cod for a more kid-friendly path.
At a Glance
- Standout lamb and cod with refined Nordic flavors
- Live piano adds cozy ambiance
- Tasting menus provide an excellent overview of the kitchen
- Premium pricing; plan for ISK 16k-22k per person before drinks
- Occasional slow or uneven service on busy nights
What Sets It Apart
- live_piano_ambience
- historic_cellar_setting
- chef_led_tasting_menus
What People Love
- Emotional wow moments from lamb and cod
- Thoughtful pacing of multi-course menus
- Courteous service that explains dishes
- Cozy cellar setting with live music
Points of Concern
- Service pace can lag at peak times; some guests report delays between courses
- A few dishes can run heavy on sauces or feel under-seasoned
- Vegan set noted as tasty but light; portions may not satisfy all diners
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (mains ~ISK 6,600-9,600) and may surprise casual diners
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average CostISK 16,000-22,000 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Seafood Menu if you prioritize fish courses
- Order a vegetable-forward starter (Beetroot Carpaccio) to balance richer mains
- Ask about Fish of the Day for freshest local catch
Perfect For
- Date night with cocktails and piano
- First-time Reykjavík fine dining sampler
- Special-occasion tasting menu
- Seafood-focused dinner
Location Insights
Area: Historic Old Town basement setting attracting visitors and locals for upscale Nordic dining and cocktails.
Safety: Central, busy tourist core with good lighting and steady foot traffic; generally safe.
Nearby: Near Harpa, Laugavegur shopping, hotels, bars; easy to combine with downtown walks.
MiðborgMiðborg is Reykjavík's central neighborhood, characterized by a bustling urban atmosphere with a strong focus on dining, nightlife, and cultural experiences. The dining scene here ranges from casual eateries to high-end restaurants, attracting a diverse crowd seeking Icelandic and international cuisine in a lively setting.
AðalstrætiAðalstræti is a well-known street within Miðborg, famous for its concentration of restaurants, bars, and cafes. It is a popular spot for both locals and visitors to enjoy Icelandic cuisine and cocktails in a cozy yet vibrant environment.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–14:30, 17:00–22:00
Tuesday11:30–14:30, 17:00–22:00
Wednesday11:30–14:30, 17:00–22:00
Thursday11:30–14:30, 17:00–22:00
Friday11:30–14:30, 17:00–22:30
Saturday17:00–22:30
Sunday17:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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