Iceland’s fine-dining scene may be small, but it’s still renowned on the world stage – a remarkable achievement given the size of the country. It’s the extreme elements of Iceland that have led to innovative approaches to every step of the dining process, from preparation to presentation. Increasingly, Icelandic restaurants are earning recognition from the Michelin Guide, whether through coveted stars or recommended listings.
With that in mind, here are our picks for the best restaurants in Iceland. We have selected both Michelin-starred establishments and those gaining a strong reputation in Iceland’s culinary circles. Let’s begin.
Michelin Star Restaurants
DILL
The very first Iceland Michelin star was awarded to DILL in 2017. Deeply rooted in Nordic culinary traditions, Dill’s cuisine celebrates Iceland through evocative presentation and exceptional food. The ingredients are farm-to-table and all sustainably sourced from local farmers. But it’s the storytelling here that sticks with you. Expect meticulous presentation, faultless flavour combinations, and a story told over multiple courses that will leave you feeling well-travelled and well-fed. It truly is a dining experience unlike any other.
Address: Laugavegur 59, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Óx
Warm and welcoming, Óx has to make it on our list of the best restaurants in Iceland. The 17-seat restaurant is built around an intimate atmosphere, one that feels like being invited into a beloved family home.
The retro cocktail lounge, modelled on the sitting room of Chef Þráinn Freyr Vigfússon’s grandmother, eases you into a world of home-spun comforts before your multi-course meal begins. With limited seating, gathered close to the host, the evening unfolds like a dinner party with friends and undeniably worthy of its Iceland Michelin star through its technical proficiency.
Address: Laugavegur 55 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Moss – The Retreat at Blue Lagoon
With awe-inspiring views through the windows and remarkable cuisine on the plate, it’s little wonder Moss has become so beloved. The restaurant is located within the world-famous Blue Lagoon, with sweeping mountain vistas as striking as the menu itself.
But even with less impressive views, this Michelin-starred menu is sure to please. Each dish is guided by the seasons, composed with precision and restraint, and what makes it a must-visit for those visiting the world-famous lagoon. The pistachio madeleines alone are worth the reservation.
Address: Norðurljósavegur 11, 240 Grindavík, Iceland
Michelin Guide Restaurants in Iceland
Alongside Iceland’s Michelin star restaurants are an array of other eateries that should not be overlooked, all of which show the vibrant and spectacular side of the Icelandic food scene. These restaurants all feature in the Michelin 2025 guide, as establishments of excellent quality.
Hósiló
A favourite of locals and fine-dining enthusiasts alike, Hósiló became one of the best restaurants in Iceland by focusing on quality rather than theatrics. Years of experience are evident in the consistently high quality and flavourful food, all developed through a menu that is simple and traditional.
The cod is a firm favourite, simply grilled and paired with seasonal local vegetables. It’s this simplicity in its approach that stands out, and paired with the genuinely welcoming feeling you get as soon as you walk in, is what makes Hósiló so memorable.
Address: Hverfisgata 12, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Sumac
Þráinn Freyr Vigfússon’s other restaurant was once found beside Óx, in an intimate room that sat only eleven guests. But demand grew enough to warrant a place of its own. Offering a Middle Eastern-inspired alternative to cuisine in Reykjavík, Chef Vigfússon has designed a place where the atmosphere of Beirut meets a rustic and full-flavoured menu.
The lamb ribs, in particular, have become a signature dish, grilled over charcoal until smoky and tender; they fill the restaurant with a mouthwatering aroma that lingers long into the night. Energetic, yet refined, Sumac brings a warm and adventurous addition to the Reykjavík food scene.
Address: Laugavegur 28, 101 Reykjavík
Oto
An exciting addition to the capital’s culinary landscape, Oto is a Japanese-Italian fusion restaurant that’s distinctly different. Famed for its gyoza, delicate yet full of flavour, the menu centres around small plates and seasonal specialties that regularly change and evolve.
For visitors wanting a departure from traditional Nordic cuisine, Oto is a dynamic and vibrant space. It has marked itself out as a fantastic part of a night out, and is certainly deserving of its place as one of the best restaurants in Iceland.
Address: Hverfisgata 44, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
TIDES
Deep in the Reykjavík EDITION, one of the most central and scenic hotels in the capital, lies TIDES, a restaurant with a contemporary approach to classical Icelandic cuisine. Menus inspired by the natural rhythms of Iceland, the restaurant draws inspiration from the nearby ocean. The menu features local produce cooked in quintessential Nordic ways. Responsibly sourced, conveniently located, and, of course, delicious, TIDES’ stellar reputation is consistently growing.
Address: Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
New restaurants are opening up all the time across Iceland, and it’s always exciting to find new recommendations and hidden gems. With our guide to the Best Restaurants in Reykjavík, you can explore places in the capital that might’ve slipped through the net.
The Michelin Keys in Iceland
But Michelin recognition also doesn’t stop at stars. A relatively new addition to the Michelin Guide, the Michelin Keys outline the best of the best when it comes to accommodation. And Iceland has some of the best on offer. In October 2025, Nordic countries, including Iceland, received their first-ever certifications, with each of the following receiving one Michelin Star.
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon
Previously highlighted in our Michelin Star section, The Retreat earned further acclaim with its Michelin Key, in recognition of its exceptional hospitality. In addition to the world-famous spa, you’ll find a 60-suite hotel of supreme comfort, ensuring that relaxation doesn’t end when you step out of the pool. There’s also a guests-only lagoon for those staying at the hotel, ensuring your soak is secluded and exclusive.
Address: Norðurljósavegur 11, 240 Grindavík, Iceland
The Reykjavík EDITION
Everything we said about the exceptional quality of TIDES is mirrored in the Reykjavík EDITION. Known worldwide for its luxury, the EDITION name always promises a stay of the highest standards and unparalleled comfort. The hotel promises convenience too, perfectly placed to explore what the capital has to offer in regard to wining and dining.
Address: Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll
Secluded far from towns or traffic, Highland Base offers modern comfort amongst rural beauty. Surrounded by dramatic vistas and geothermal valleys, the location promises high-altitude hiking and adventure as far as the eye can see. But when you get to the hotel itself, you’ll also find luxury suites, private lodges, a shared lounge and an on-site restaurant and bar. As one of Iceland’s most isolated and awe-inspiring retreats, it’s no wonder it received a Michelin Key.
Address: Highland Base, Kerlingarfjöll, Iceland
UMI Hotel
A boutique hotel nestled on the south coast, UMI Hotel is perfect for guests who are looking for relaxation somewhere more rural. Minimalist in design, but undeniably refined, the entire resort is built toward a sense of tranquility. From the expansive spa to the dramatic landscape of Eyjafjallajökull in the distance, UMI promises an environment where guests can fully unwind.
Address: Leirnavegur 243, Hvolsvöllur 861, Iceland
Hotel Rangá
Hotel Rangá is a luxurious resort found in the rural south, promising otherworldly views of volcanoes and mountains every morning. The suites are elegant, thoughtfully furnished, and feature access to on-site hot tubs for the ultimate relaxation experience. The hotel is famed for the high chance of seeing the Northern Lights, as the clear skies give an excellent view – and the on-site observatory offers guided stargazing sessions.
Address: Suðurlandsvegur, 851 Hella, Iceland
For options outside of the ordinary, we have guides to the best hotels that aren’t on the list – yet. Browse our selection of the best hotels in Reykjavík and our complete guide to Reykjavík.
At Hidden Iceland, we weave the country’s most exceptional restaurants and top-tier accommodation into our tailor-made journeys. Contact us today by calling +354-770-5733 or by emailing info@hiddeniceland.is, and we’ll begin planning your Icelandic culinary journey.