What should I order at Íslenski barinn?
Íslenski barinn
Puffin
Frequently mentioned as a must-try traditional Icelandic dish with a unique taste that surprised many visitors; described as good and different from expected poultry flavors.
Whale
Highly recommended traditional meat option, often praised for its flavor and authenticity; included in various mixed platters and suggested by staff.
Fermented Shark (Hakarl)
A quintessential Icelandic dish that is an acquired taste; many reviewers recommend trying it at least once, often paired with Brennivín for the full cultural experience.
Seafood Soup
Mentioned multiple times as delicious, savory, and a highlight of the menu, showcasing Iceland's fresh seafood offerings.
Lobster Hot Dog
Repeatedly praised as a delicious and unique dish combining Icelandic lobster with a casual hot dog format; noted for being divine and flavorful.
Lamb Soup / Lamb Shank
Recommended for its tender, flavorful qualities and as a traditional Icelandic meat dish that many found satisfying.
Fish and Chips
Enjoyed for its interesting curry seasoned batter and overall good taste, providing a familiar yet Icelandic twist on a classic dish.
Salmon (including salmon salad and fish of the day - Arctic char)
Frequently recommended for its tender meat and crispy skin, highlighting fresh Icelandic seafood.
Hours
| Monday | 9:30 AM to 1 AM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9:30 AM to 1 AM |
| Wednesday | 9:30 AM to 1 AM |
| Thursday | 9:30 AM to 1 AM |
| Friday | 9:30 AM to 3 AM |
| Saturday | 9:30 AM to 3 AM |
| Sunday | 9:30 AM to 1 AM |
About Íslenski barinn
Down-to-earth restaurant offering unique seafood & meat dishes including shark, reindeer & whale.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Live music
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Happy hour drinks
- Hard liquor
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
- Transgender safespace
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- On-site parking
- Paid street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked questions
What is Íslenski barinn known for?
It is best known for Icelandic specialties like reindeer, whale, and fermented shark, along with the reindeer burger and hot dogs. Reviewers often mention it as a place to try traditional local food in Reykjavík, especially if you want a full Icelandic food adventure.
What dishes are most recommended at Íslenski barinn?
Frequently recommended dishes include the reindeer burger, fish pie, lamb shank, meat soup, and the appetizer sampler with Icelandic items like smoked salmon and cured lamb. Reviewers also call out the hot dogs, puffin, whale, and the fish and chips from the kids menu as memorable choices.
What is the atmosphere like at Íslenski barinn?
The atmosphere is casual, cozy, and busy, with a warm pub feel and occasional live piano music. It suits groups and families, but solo diners also use it, and reviewers mention it can get lively with a line during peak dinner hours.
Is Íslenski barinn good value, and what is the price range?
The restaurant is described as expensive, but typical for Icelandic prices, with dishes like the slow cooked lamb shank at 5190 ISK and the reindeer burger at 4290 ISK. Reviewers still felt the portions, fast service, and unique local dishes made it worth the cost.
When is the best time to visit Íslenski barinn?
Early arrival helps, because reviewers report the place can be packed by dinner and have a line out the door, especially later in the evening. One group waited about 15 to 20 minutes for a table, and dinner reservations are recommended for larger parties.
Is parking available at Íslenski barinn?
Yes. On-site parking, Paid street parking, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Does Íslenski barinn have vegetarian options?
Yes, Íslenski barinn offers vegan options.
Is Íslenski barinn kid-friendly?
Yes, Íslenski barinn is good for kids.
Restaurants like Íslenski barinn in Reykjavík
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