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Salka Valka eldhús/kitchenB+Worth Trying
Skólavörðustígur 23, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
· Restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (1567 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Cozy downtown spot for Icelandic comfort plates and sourdough pizzas; food is generally tasty with standout fish stew and lamb, but occasional service lapses and uneven execution exist.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Salka Valka delivers reliable Icelandic comfort dining with strong food quality in signature dishes like plokkfiskur and lamb shank, supported by attentive service and an appealing sidewalk setting with church views. However, inconsistent execution—particularly with fish and chips texture and occasional service lapses—prevents a higher grade. It's a solid neighborhood favorite competitive with Reykjavík's better casual restaurants, though not a destination in its own right.
Restaurant Summary
On a lively stretch near Hallgrimskirkja, Salka Valka feels cozy and welcoming with sidewalk tables perfect for people-watching. Servers are usually friendly and attentive, and many diners call it a reliable stop after tours. One guest summed it up: "A simple room, warm service, and plates that really satisfy." However, expect a small, bustling space where the back tables can feel a bit cramped. The kitchen leans traditional Icelandic with comfort-driven plates rather than flashy technique. Plokkfiskur, lamb shank, and arctic char earn repeated praise, while sourdough pizzas split opinions—great dough, but toppings can feel light or oily for some. Portions on the Icelandic mains are hearty with rye bread, rice, and sweet potatoes, offering good value for central Reykjavík by local standards. Families do well here thanks to approachable options: margherita and pepperoni pizzas, fish and chips, and simple salmon. There is no stated kids menu, but portions and recognizable flavors make it workable. For picky eaters, steer toward pizza or the milder fish dishes and away from the fish-forward pizza versions.
At a Glance
- Hearty Icelandic staples (plokkfiskur, lamb) consistently praised
- Sidewalk seating with Hallgrimskirkja views
- Fish and chips quality varies from crisp to soggy
- Occasional long waits or forgotten orders
- Downtown pricing; verify bill details if sensitive to add-ons
What Sets It Apart
- traditional Icelandic plates with hearty sides
- sidewalk seating with church views
- sourdough pizza alongside local fish
What People Love
- Warm, friendly service without fuss
- Traditional flavors that feel homestyle
- Hearty sides that make a full meal
- People-watching from outdoor seats
Points of Concern
- Quality inconsistency on fish and chips reported by a minority of diners
- Occasional 30–40 minute waits and one-off forgotten orders
- A few billing mismatch complaints on drinks/dessert; check receipt
- Pizza toppings can feel sparse or oily to some tastes
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average CostISK 8,900-11,200 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Choose Icelandic mains for best value-to-satisfaction ratio
- Vegetarians: Margherita or Fungi pizza; vegans: Salka Vegana or Vegan Plate
- Seafood lovers: Arctic char or Fish of the Day with sauces
Perfect For
- Casual Icelandic comfort dinner near the church
- Small groups wanting hearty plates after tours
- Solo travelers seeking easy walk-in dining
- Families needing kid-friendly pizza and fish options
Location Insights
Area: Lively pedestrian-friendly street near Hallgrimskirkja, popular with visitors and locals; boutique shops and cafes line the block.
Safety: Well-trafficked central area with good lighting and tourist presence; generally safe.
Nearby: Steps from Hallgrimskirkja and shopping on Skólavörðustígur and Laugavegur; bars and dessert spots nearby.
MiðborgMiðborg is Reykjavík's downtown core, bustling with cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and galleries. The dining scene is diverse, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining, often featuring Icelandic cuisine and fresh seafood. The area has a lively, cosmopolitan atmosphere with a mix of locals and visitors.
SkólavörðustígurSkólavörðustígur is a well-known street in Miðborg, popular for its boutique shops, art galleries, and eateries. It has a charming, pedestrian-friendly vibe and is close to landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja church, making it a favored spot for both dining and casual strolls.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:00–22:00
Tuesday10:00–22:00
Wednesday10:00–22:00
Thursday10:00–22:00
Friday10:00–22:00
Saturday10:00–22:00
Sunday10:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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