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What to order
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🥇
Sheep's Head
Mentioned multiple times as extremely delicious, tender, and flavorful; several reviewers said it was a favorite or loved it, making it one of the most consistently praised dishes.
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Lamb Shank
Recommended in more than one review for being rich, flavorful, and cooked really well, with reviewers calling it 'out of this world' and a standout authentic Icelandic dish.
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Puffin Starter
Repeatedly recommended for its balanced flavor and interesting presentation, with reviews praising its fresh, smoky, and well-composed salad-style preparation.
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4
Reindeer Burger
Appears several times as a solid, tasty main course; reviewers liked its flavor and toppings, even noting it works well despite being a bit dry at times.
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5
Grilled Whale
Frequently highlighted as surprisingly flavorful, tender, and a must-try Icelandic specialty, with multiple reviewers strongly recommending it.
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6
Icelandic Hot Dog
Recommended in several versions, including lamb, lobster, and reindeer hot dogs, with reviewers calling them delicious and a fun traditional thing to try.
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7
Plokkfiskur
Strongly recommended as delicious and very good, with generous portions and especially positive comments about how well it paired with rye bread and cream.
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8
Creamy Seafood Soup
Called the top recommendation by one reviewer and praised as exceptionally tasty, creamy, and full of shrimp and cod.
Details
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
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
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
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.
