Reservations · Takeout
Reliable Icelandic comfort cooking with standout lamb and lobster soup; value is fair for Reykjavík, but some seafood dishes run heavy and service can be uneven at peak times.
Potturinn og Pannan delivers solid neighborhood dining through strong food quality anchored by exceptional lamb and lobster soup, paired with genuinely attentive service. However, inconsistent seafood execution—particularly in gratins and fried dishes—and occasional service slowdowns at peak times prevent it from reaching higher territory. The warm, unpretentious setting and reliable comfort-forward cooking make it a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking authentic Icelandic fare without pretension.
Set just outside the busiest streets, this spot feels warm and welcoming rather than flashy. Servers are often genuinely attentive, seating late arrivals and remembering repeat guests, and plates lean hearty and comforting. As one traveler put it, "the lamb was tender and the onions made it sing," though a packed room can get loud at peak times. The cooking favors classic Icelandic cues with modern polish: rich lobster soup, crisp-skinned lamb, haddock and mussels, plus vegetarian mains that read thoughtful rather than token. It is elevated traditional more than experimental; when it hits, flavors are clean and satisfying. Some seafood dishes run creamy or heavy, so diners who prefer minimal sauce may do best with the lamb, mussels, or fish of the day. Portions are sensible, with a few standouts feeling generous and comforting. Families should do well here. There is no explicit kids menu, but options like fish and chips, a cheeseburger, pizzas, and creamy pastas suit younger palates. Adventurous kids can nibble grilled salmon or lamb, while desserts like skyr mousse and vegan date cake are easy wins. If your child prefers super plain fare, consider the pizzas or burger over saucier seafood gratins.
Area: Mixed commercial-residential zone just east of the downtown core; calm streets, practical venues, hotel spillover.
Safety: Generally safe and well-lit with steady foot traffic; typical Reykjavík safety profile.
Nearby: Near midtown hotels and offices; short drive or 15–20 minute walk from main tourist streets.
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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