What's On in Reykjavik - May 2015 by MD Reykjavik

MAY 2015

IN REYKJAVIK

REYKJAVIK’S LEADING GUIDE TO ENTERTAINMENT, EATING OUT, MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES.

www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is

CHECK OUT THE NEW

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM C O M P R I S I N G 5 TO P M U S E U M S :

Árbær Open Air Musem

The Settlement Exhibition

Viðey Island

Reykjavík Museum of Photography

More information in the Art & Culture section.

Reykjavík Maritime Museum

Reykjavík Art Museum

One admission to three museums

OPEn daIly

Ásmundur Sveinsson, Stríð og flótti-War and Flight, 1943

Richard Serra, Áfangar, 1990

Magnús, Sigurðarson, Rotating Renaissance Man, vizcaya Museum & gardens, Miami, 2015

HafnarHús TRyggvagaTa 17 Erró and art History From 21 May: - Richard Serra: Áfangar - Kathy Clark: bears; truths … - Magnús Sigurðarson: - Process & Pretense

Ásmundarsafn SigTún Ásmundur sveinsson: artistic Inclination

KjarvalsstaðIr FlóKagaTa just Painted 2

Open daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Thursdays 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Open daily 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Open daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

www.artmuseum.is / artmuseum@reykjavik.is / +354 590 1200

WHAT’S ON

CONTENTS MAY 2015

ON THE COVER MAY IN ICELAND

EXPERIENCE 6-25

WHAT’S ON

26-37

MUSEUM WALK

38-41

Good bye winter and may you return to find us awaiting you with a welcoming embrace, following a sunshine filled, heat-record breaking summer. You were a cruel guest, winter, tormenting us with constant, unexpected, infuriating snow storms, hail storms, blizzards and all sorts of nuisances, seemingly designed specifically to cause as much annoyance as possible. If that was your goal, then you’ve succeeded.

REYKJAVIK CITY MAP 42-43

EVENT CALENDAR

44-57

ART & CULTURE

58-63

NIGHTLIFE 64-65

SHOPPING & STYLE

66-69

FOOD & DRINK

70-75

PRACTICAL INFO

76-81

Now… Let’s put the solemnness aside and celebrate the fact that May is actually here. Finally. The highlight of May in Iceland is undoubtedly the Reykjavik Arts Festival. This annual festival promises to be great this year, with BANDALOOP providing the opening act. They’re featured on the cover as well! Following that, the whole month is filled with great exhibitions, acts and activities in connection with Reykjavik Arts Festival. We encourage one and all to try to experience as much of it as possible, and you can get to know more on pages 28-30! May also of course marks the month of Eurovision. Icelanders are for some reason crazed by Eurovision, believing every year that “this is our year” and we’ll actually win the thing. We have an unusually good song going for us this year, so here’s for hoping I guess… So all in all we’re in for a good month. We can safely say we’ve left winter behind, and as such face the oncoming summer with our usual completely illogical over-optimism. We know, deep down inside, we’ll probably be disappointed and that we’re most likely in for, yet another rainy, cold windy summer. But right now, we don’t really care. Summer is coming, and we’re going to make the most of it.

– Hjörtur Atli, editor

Editor: Hjörtur Atli Guðmunds. Geirdal, hjortur@whatson.is, Tel.: 847-4153. Cover photo: Atossa Soltani Content writers: The What’s On Team Map: Kári Gunnarsson Printing: Oddi, Ecolabelled Printing Company

Layout & design: Stefán Birgir Stefáns, sbs@sbs.is 141

I C E CO L A

B EL

www.whatson.is

Volume 33 – Issue 5. Published by MD Reykjavik ehf. Laugavegur 4, 101 Reykjavik. Publisher: Sigurþór Marteinn Tel.: 899-2255. E-mail: sm@whatson.is

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PRINTED MATTER

WHAT‘S ON IN REYKJAVIK is published monthly covering events and happenings in and around Reykjavik. Opinions expressed in WHAT‘S ON IN Reykjavik are those of the individual authors. While every effort has been made to ensure the information presented is accurate, prices, times, dates and other information may be subject to change.

GLACIER WALKS & OUTDOOR ADVENTURES MAKE SURE IT’S MOUNTAIN GUIDES

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DAY TOURS

ICELANDAIR

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For designing and developing Glacier Walks.

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ICELANDAIR PIONEER AWARD

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SCAN TO BOOK NOW

EXPERIENCE

THE WHAT’S ON

MAY CHECKLIST As always, loads of things to try out and enjoy in May! Here are a few “must-do’s” in Reykjavik in May!

You can find checklists from past months on whatson.is

As ever, we encourage you to tag your photos using #WhatsOnRvk, as proof that you did all those things you’re boasting of!

Go all Icelandic and watch Eurovision passionately! Make sure you string curses together when our official “friendly” nations cheat us out of a full house of points Ride a snowmobile Climb a glacier Explore a Lava cave Dive in pristine clear glacial melt water! Experience the Reykjavik Arts Festival See a Puffin! Have some Icelandic fish and lamb See the sunrise in the middle of the night!

CHECK OUT OLDER CHECKLISTS ON WHATSON.IS/CHECKLIST

ThE WondErs of

VolcanoEs

Volcano house features two documentaries chronicling two of Iceland´s most famous volcanic eruptions of the last 40 years

Vestmannaeyjar 1973, Eyjafjallajökull 2010 and other volcanoes showtimes

English: 10:00-21:00 every hour on the hour Vestmannaeyjar 1973 The eruption in Vestmannaeyjar began without warning on the night of January 23rd, 1973. 400 homes perished under ash and lava and nearly 5.000 people had to flee to the mainland in matter of hours.

Eyjafjallajökull 2010 The most famous volcano eruption in recent times; the eruption that caused much disruption in air travel over large parts of Europe. This powerful documentary made specially for Volcano House was filmed and directed by the Emmy-nominated Icelandic film maker, Jóhann Sigfússon.

Volcano cinema and Geological Exhibition You may touch Tryggvagata 11, 101 reykjavik | (354) 555 1900 volcanohouse.is

VOLCANO HOUSE

EXPERIENCE

THE REYKJAVIK COFFEE EXPERIENCE Iceland may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of coffee, but Icelanders are actually big coffee drinkers. You will find plenty of small coffee shops or cafés on nearly every street corner in downtown Reykjavík. We know of at least five places where you will get great coffee.

CAFÉ PARÍS

AUSTURSTRÆTI 14

Café Paris is one of Reykjavik city’s most beloved restaurants and cafés, and has been for twenty years. It’s ideally situated by Austurvöllur square, where Icelanders go to celebrate the sun in the summertime. Inside Café Paris, you’ll be able to relax in a calm and casual atmosphere while enjoying a warm cup of coffee. They have a wide selection of coffee drinks but their Frappuccino “à la Café Paris” deserves the highest praise. You can’t go wrong with any of their cakes if you’re in the mood for a luxurious refreshment as well.

10 DROPAR

LAUGAVEGUR 27

One of Reykjavik‘s oldest cafés, located in a hidden basement on Laugavegur that is frequented by avid loungers, coffee addicts, happy families and hungry travelers. There’s nothing pretentious about it, it’s just a lovely old-fashioned house with homelike atmosphere and generous coffee refills. If you want to try something really Icelandic with your coffee you should order flatkökur, rye pancakes with sliced smoked lamb, or pönnukökur, traditional Icelandic pancakes with sugar, or with jam and whipped cream.

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REYKJAVIK ROASTERS KÁRASTÍGUR 1

A small and intimate coffee shop in the city center where you’ll find first class coffee and refreshment. Their coffee is roasted in their own roasteries by their own roasting masters. When you walk in you’ll notice their beautiful La Marzocco espresso machine and two Mazzer grinders, and realize that coffee at Reykjavík Roasters is serious business. If you like your coffee, which you probably will, you can purchase whole beans in 300 gram bags or have them custom grinded for your coffee maker.

KAFFIFÉLAGIÐ

SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍGUR 10

It may be the smallest coffee shop in the country but it’s definitely one of the most popular ones too. Kaffifélagið offers a wide selection of coffee drinks made from Italian espresso beans that are grown in Ottolina, Milan. If you want to awaken your senses and make your mouth to foam with delight and deliciousness, Kaffifélagið is where you should go. The place is usually filled with busy locals getting their take-away coffee. You can also stock up on coffee beans, DVD’s and Icelandic music while you’re there.

SÓLON

BANKASTRÆTI 7A

If you’re looking for the perfect place to sit down, order a cup of coffee and watch people go on with their daily lives outside the window, Café Sólon is the place for you. The oversized artwork and sleek furniture definitely add to its appeal. Café Sólon is located in an old beautiful building in the city center with big windows and a lot of history. Their aromatic coffee will send any coffee lover over the edge, and if you’re looking for something more, than their variety of tapas plates or their seafood soup is definitely something to check out!

Svartifoss (Black waterfall) 20 metre high, famous for the surrounding hanging hexagonal black basalt columns. These columns have inspired many Icelandic architects and artists, most visibly in the design of Hallgrímskirkja church and the National Theatre. Svartifoss is located in Skaftafell National Park, close to Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull.

Michelsen Svartifoss The Waterfall collection was inspired by the watchmakers’ quest for perfection and the exceptionally beautiful Icelandic waterfalls Svartifoss and Goðafoss. These waterfalls deserve their names on a watch. A fine Swiss mechanical movement, hand-beveled and hand-decorated by a 4th generation Michelsen watchmaker. The Svartifoss features a high quality solid stainless steel case with black coating (DLC), and a Swiss traditional dial made by hand. Available with several strap offerings, including exotic Icelandic spotted wolffish leather.

For more information please visit www.michelsenwatch.com

Laugavegur 15 - 101 Reykjavík - Tel. 354 511 1900 - www.michelsenwatch.com

EXPERIENCE

#WhatsOnRvk So youâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;re in Iceland. Enjoying life, seeing the sights and taking in everything our magnificent country has to offer. Why not share it with the world?

Follow WhatsOnIceland on Instagram for more beautiful shots from Iceland!

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As ever, we encourage you to tag your photos using #WhatsOnRvk, as proof that you did all those things youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re boasting of!

EXPERIENCE

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EXPERIENCE

ICELAND:

A PARADISE FOR THE HIKER If you‘re on the way to Iceland you better bring your hiking boots because you‘re in for a treat. Iceland is a beautiful place to hike for a number of reasons. As you probably know, Iceland is a volcanic island filled with mountains and natural wonders which many are very accessible. The beauty is that you’re never far away from a great hike. A SHORT DRIVE OR EVEN A BUS RIDE There are many beautiful trails around Reykjavík. If you have a car then Mount Esja, Reykjavik’s favorite trail is only 30 minutes away. You could even take the bus there! Other fun hikes within or around an hour away, include the waterfall Glymur which is the highest in Iceland, Mount Hengill where you can overlook Þingvellir and the highlands and Keilir, on the way to the airport. These are all fairly easy and accessible. GUIDED, OR NOT If you’re based in Reykjavik there are numerous of companies that will take you on a guided hike. I would always recommend a guided hike, especially if you’re going somewhere out in the wilderness for a longer trip. First of all the hikes can be dangerous, particularly for people untrained in Icelandic conditions. Second of all it’s easy to get lost if you don’t know your way. But your guide can also be an endless source of information and he or she will no doubt enrich your experience. If you’re doing shorter hikes, like Mount Esja, you probably won’t need a guide. A local travel partner might be a good idea though because… THERE’S ALWAYS A STORY! Icelandic history is rich with folklore and through the years stories of trolls, elves, bandits and hidden people have been passed along. Each mountain has its own story and each trail will be guarded by a patron. Hell, even the hill near my house is inhabited by elves and other beings! Many of the longer trails have weird names such as Leggjabrjótur (e. Legbreaker), which is a 17km trail from Hvalfjörður to Þingvellir, and takes its awful name from a part of the journey that is very rocky so in the old days it was very hard to travel there by horse. TIPS FOR HIKING IN ICELAND:

If you know any locals, especially out in the country, ask them to join you for your hike and they will doubtless be full of information you wouldn’t hear otherwise. THERE’S ALWAYS A MOUNTAIN You’ll have a hard time to get away from them, which is good if you’re a hiker. One time I drove the ring-road around Iceland, stopping my car at the side of the road whenever I saw a hike I wanted to try. I literally just stopped the car and started walking. Wherever you go, you’ll find a good hike. ALL THE VARIOUS WALKS What I love about my country is all the different places you can go. If you were to stay for a few days you could do a different walk every day, and each trail would be different. You can do guided glacier hikes, walk through lava, go waterfall hunting, climb perilous mountains and bathe in hot springs – all in a small radius. So bring your boots, you’ll need them.

»» Wear good boots, even for the shortest hikes

»» Always bring a jacket. The weather changes without notice

»» Know where you’re going

»» Fill your water bottle with water from a stream

»» Have a working cell phone on you

»» Take pictures

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU PRE-BOOKING REQUIRED

Blue Lagoon has limited availability Book online at bluelagoon.com

EXPERIENCE

THE REYKJAVIK Reykjavík is filled with things to do, places to go and stuff to see but some are just a little bit more important than others.

1 | HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA Hallgrímskirkja church is one of Reykjavík’s most iconic buildings and is visible from almost anywhere in the city. The tower of the church is among the city’s highest buildings and offers a fantastic view of the city for the small price of 700ISK for adults, 100ISK for children. Hallgrímskirkja is the largest church- and the sixth tallest architectural structure in Iceland. It’s named after the Icelandic poet and clergyman Hallgrímur Petursson, author of the Passion Hymns. The architect who designed it, Guðjón Samúelsson is said to have designed it to resemble the basalt lava flows of Iceland’s landscape.

2 | PERLAN Standing at 25 metres high, Perlan is one of Reykjavík’s most striking buildings and although it was opened to the public in 1991 it still makes a stand out piece of architecture for its modern construction. Up on the fourth level there is a 360 degree viewing platform where you can get the best panoramic views of Reykjavík and when the sun sets it’s a spectacular spot for the northern lights. You can also dine at the Perlan restaurant that slowly rotates so you get to see the whole city without even having to turn your head.

Check out our map on p. 42 for the locations of these sights.

3 | TJÖRNIN

People go to the pond to feed the birds and enjoy one of the most amazing views that Reykjavík has to offer. There isn’t a better place in the city to enjoy a beautiful sunset and you can watch or feed a huge variety of birdlife that calls the lake home while you’re at it. When the lake freezes over in winter, hot geothermal waters are pumped in to defrost an area for the birds while those who can handle the cold keep warm from the romantic atmosphere and take to the ice on skates.

4 | AUSTURVÖLLUR When the sun is shining and the air is hot, Austurvöllur is the place to be no matter who you are. Surrounded by cafés and restaurants on Vallarstræti and Pósthússtræti, this public square is a wildly popular spot for locals to dine outside, soak up some sunshine or recline in the grass with picnics. With its close proximity to the Parliament of Iceland building, Austurvöllur has contrastingly also been the gathering place for political protests. At the center of it all stands a statue of Jón Sigurðsson, the renowned figure who led Iceland to independence.

5 | KOLAPORTIÐ Whether you want to sample dried fish and fermented shark, purchase a bag of Icelandic candy or browse through thrifted clothing, Kolaportið should be the destination of your choice. Kolaportið is an indoor flea market that is open during the weekend between 11am-5pm. The atmosphere is very unique and the old industrial building is usually filled with people hunting for books or antiques, grocery shopping at the food court, selling their old garments, buying music and DVD’s or digging through piles of stuff in search of hidden treasures. We recommend bringing cash, as the majority of stalls don‘t accept cards.

6 | HARPA The whole 28.000 square meters of Harpa stand at the edge of the Reykjavik Harbour with Iceland‘s biggest concert hall suitable for a broad range of concerts and cultural events, conference centre with meeting facilities and in-house catering and fine restaurants. Harpa also occasionally hosts promotions, plays, and public events. It‘s open to everyone, always, and you should definitely visit Harpa, whether it‘s for a show, to buy souvenirs, a concert or a lovely dinner in one of the fabulous restaurants. Harpa was designed by a Danish firm in co-operation with Ólafur Elíasson, an Icelandic artist, and opened to the public in 2011.

7 | THE OLD HARBOR The descriptive name comes from the fact that it‘s the first lasting harbor in Reykjavik. The most visited area is the eastern pier where you’ll find a community of shops, galleries, electric bike and scooter rentals and guided tours in Reykjavík. You will find numerous whale watching companies willing to take you out to sea on unforgettable excursions. The area is filled with excellent restaurants (sushi and other seafood, tapas, burgers, etc.) and coffee houses. The atmosphere at the old harbour is friendly, the air is fresh and salty and there’s plenty of interesting activities to check out.

EXPERIENCE

SIGHT EXPERIENCE

8 | THE SUN VOYAGER

9 | CITY HALL With an impressive, modern design, the building sits right on the northern shore of Lake Tjörnin. It’s not only offices for the mayor and city’s excutive officials, but is also open to visitors, providing internet access, an information desk, exhibition halls and a cafe. Café Öndin boasts huge glass windows so you can sit back and admire the water, bird life, nature and city surrounds. Go to the galleries to admire one of the steady streams of new and exciting exhibitions always coming through. The three dimensional map of Iceland is always a favourite with visitors to the country.

10 | LAUGARDALSLAUG Every country has traditions when it comes to leisure. Iceland’s big thing is swimming pools.. Laugardalslaug is the city’s largest pool with extensive facilities, located in Laugardalur Valley. Its facilities include a 50m outdoor pool, outdoor children’s pool and paddling pool, two waterslides, numerous hot tubs, steam bath, gym and mini golf course. There really is no better place to be on a sunny day, or a cold one for that matter. Right outside you will find a hot dog stand where you can buy traditional Icelandic hot dog.

Find these places on the centerfold map.

Check out our map on p. 42 for the locations of these sights.

A beautiful sculpture of a Viking ship located by the ocean on a small peninsula by Sæbraut, close to the Reykjavík center. The sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason symbolises the Viking past of the Icelanders and an ode to the sun. It serves as reminder of our history and heritage when the first Viking settlers came sailing to Iceland. An ideal opportunity to see Sólfarið at its best is when the sun is setting, at whatever time that may be. It should be every photographer’s dream to capture the amazing view.

Gourmet Experience

- Steaks and Style at Argentina Steakhouse Barónsstíg 11 - 101 Reykjavík Tel: 551 9555 argentina.is

EXPERIENCE

THE WHAT’S ON

ICELAND‘S SECRET TO HEALTHY LIVING Legend has it that the Vikings introduced Skyr to Iceland when they settled in the country some 1.100 years ago. Travel back in time to any farm and Skyr would be on the table – essential nourishment for young and old. Generations past may not have been able to measure the nutritional content in the way we can now, but the life-expectancy of the average Icelander was proof enough that something good was going on. Icelanders have ever since loved the smooth texture of this incredibly healthy dairy product and today it plays a big role in the modern lifestyle

diet. Skyr is high in protein and a virtually fat-free dairy delight. Thick and creamy in consisteny, it is also rich in calcium and other nutrients. Skyr can be found at almost every home and workplace. Enjoyed at breakfast, lunchtime, pretty much anytime, it has also become a healthy „fastfood“ for active people on the go. Delicious in smoothies or energy-boosting drinks, it even features on the dessert menus of many top restaurants, which are bringing a contemporary twist to this established favourite.

For more information on skyr, visit skyr.is

SKYR EXPERIENCE

EXPERIENCE

Skyr is available in many different varieties, both flavored and plain and in small containers and large. For an easy on-the-go treat, a spoon comes with the smaller ones. Below are some of the flavors available.

MS SKYR â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PLAIN Skyr was originally only available as plain and was made at every farm in Iceland. Nowadays there are many flavors available but some still prefer the plain one. It can be enjoyed with berries and cream and perhaps with a little bit of honey or sugar. In the fall many Icelanders pick fresh berries and enjoy it with skyr. Plain Skyr is also a good base for all sorts of cold sauses.

KEA SKYR WITH VANILLA Originated in the northern part of Iceland, this is one of the most popular flavors available. The taste is full and creamy with zero fat.

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MS SKYR.IS WITH BAKED APPLES

A new variety in this popular brand. As with other skyr, it is high in protein and fatfree as well as being low-carb. Even though it is low-carb the flavor is reminiscent of a creamy dessert.

MS SKYR.IS WITH BLUEBERRIES This is a long time favorite in Skyr.is, Skyr with blueberries has a long tradition in Iceland. The taste is very rich and full of blueberries.

(354) 58 12345

Treat yourself to Ice popular pizza. Ca landâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most ll and we deliver rig us at 58 12345 ht to your room!

EXPERIENCE

WELL-KNOWN (UNTRUE) FACTS ABOUT ICELAND By Rögnvaldur “Reggie” Guðmundsson

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ICELANDERS BELIEVE IN ELVES, TROLLS AND OTHER MYSTICAL BEINGS. EVEN SCIENCE SAYS SO, THERE WAS THAT ONE SURVEY THAT SHOWED MORE THAN HALF OF ICELANDERS DO!

Yeeeeaaahhhh ... listen, I read that survey, and the way they got to that number was basically asking “is it impossible that elves exist” to which half the population would answer “no.” That’s not the same as actively believing in them though. I mean I don’t believe in ghosts, but I don’t want to find out I’m wrong, either! It’s not like the average person leaves out milk and honey at night for the elves. ICELAND IS GREEN, GREENLAND IS ICE. “BACK IN THE DAY, THE ICELANDERS WHO DISCOVERED GREENLAND, WANTED ICELAND TO THEMSELVES, SO THEY CALLED GREENLAND GREENLAND TO TRICK PEOPLE INTO MOVING THERE INSTEAD.” Weeeeeellllll, there’s definitely some truth to this. The sagas say Eric the Red named it Greenland because he wanted to encourage people to move there, nut actually nobody knows where the name Iceland came from. It might be so ancient that it was much icier when the name was made. But, Iceland is still plenty icy. And parts of Greenland are very green, especially in summertime.

We won’t presume to judge as to the truth of this, but do feel free to keep perpetuating it, at least it’s very flattering for Icelandic women’s egos.. ICELANDIC IS THE SAME NOW AS 1000 YEARS AGO, IN FACT, ICELANDERS CAN STILL READ THE VIKING SAGAS WITHOUT DIFFICULTY.

ICELAND IS A SCANDINAVIAN COUNTRY. Weeeeeeeelll... I mean sure it is. But if we’re gonna get technical (and we are) Scandinavia, strictly speaking, refers to the Scandinavian peninsula, on which Sweden, Norway and Denmark reside. Culturally, “Scandinavia” has come to encompass Iceland, Finland and the Faroese Islands as well. More importantly though, Iceland has about 50% of its blood from Ireland, so it’s as Celtic as it is Scandinavian. ICELANDERS ARE VIKINGS. Actually, I try to limit all my raiding and pillaging to the weekends..

But we still have some influences, words like pizza, email and “meikar sens” (makes sense) are in common usage, for instance. And though the language has remained largely unaffected from the outside, it has still changed internally, so most Icelanders today could probably not easily read the Viking manuscripts. And even if we can read them to some extent, we must bear in mind that though a word might be written the same, it is pronounced very differently today from what it was in the Viking age, so we would probably not understand a time-travelling viking today, even if he did stop murdering us long enough to have a civil conversation. Can you think of other common (untrue) myths about Iceland? Send us a message on whatson@whatson.is!

P.S. Lots of Icelandic kids are blond before they grow into their real hair colour. But then, while blond, they’re not very tall.

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In Icelandic, “viking” was much more something you ‘did’ than something you ‘were.’ Icelanders were farmers and fishers, and then sometimes, when times were tough or the fancy took you, you would go and “viking” in England or somewhere. I mean, I see where you guys get confused, cause the only time you ever met Icelanders is when they were “viking-ing.”

Hmmmmm... Well. It is true that Icelandic is BY FAR the most original of the Scandinavian languages, which were influenced by European languages, since Iceland was so isolated and insignificant nobody bothered to colonise us much. It is also true that we have jealously guarded our language, opting to make up new words for everything from computer (“tölva”) to telephone (“sími”), rather than taking up foreign words.

EXPERIENCE

stole all the most beautiful women from Britain, which is why Icelandic women are so attractive.

Another common myth (well, common in Iceland at least) says that the Icelandic Vikings

Also, that was a long long time ago, and frankly everyone was doing it at the time, and we really wish you would just let it go already. “ICELANDERS ARE ALL TALL AND BLOND, LIKE THE ELVES IN LORD OF THE RINGS.” No, that’s the Norwegians, silly. But seriously, Icelanders are relatively tall, but, presumably due to the generous admixture of Celtic blood, there are a lot of redheads. The commonest hair colour in Iceland? That dirty’blond colour that used to be called “mousy.” And all those blondes: BLEACHED, my dear.

EXPERIENCE

GLJÚFRASTEINN

LAXNESS MUSEUM Gljúfrasteinn was the home of writer Halldór Laxness (the winner of The Nobel Prize in Literature 1955) and his family for more than half a century. The house is now a museum, where the author’s home is preserved just as it was when he lived and worked there. A number of events are hosted throughout the year. Every Sunday during the summertime there are concerts in the living room at 4pm. The museum is open everyday from 9am – 17pm. Audio guides of the house are available in Icelandic, English, German, Swedish and Danish, and an illustrated guide in French. Gljúfrasteinn-Laxness museum is located in the valley of Mosfellsdalur on the way to Þingvellir National Park, only 20 minute drive from Reykjavik. For more information, go to www.gljufrasteinn.is.

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ÍSLENSK I BARINN www.islenskibarinn.is

ING ÓLFSSTRÆ TI 1A 101 REYKJAVÍK postur@islenskibarinn.is sími: 517 6767

Fish • Lamb • Whale • Icelandic cuisine with a twist Icelandic music and nightlife Mix with the locals . .and all the Icelandic beers in one awsome place!

INGÓLFSSTRÆTI 1A

1 0 1 R E Y K J AV Í K

www.islenskibarinn.is postur@islenskibarinn.is sími: 517 6767

THE STEAK HOUSE

Steikhúsið simply means „The Steak House” and that underlines our goal, to focus solely on steaks. The Steak house is in the middle of Reykjavík, opposite the old harbor which has recently formed into a lively neighborhood of restaurants, cafes and artisan stores and work shops. When you wisit us, remember to try our “28 days” tendered meat. The heart of the place is a coal oven from Mibrasa, Spain. It is only fitting that we use coal for grilling and baking The Building housed a blacksmith and metal works in years gone by. THE KITCHEN IS OPEN FROM 17:00 TILL LATE — VISIT WWW.STEAK.IS

Booking: +354 561 1111 & steik@steik.is

WHAT’S ON

WRITINGS FROM

WHATSON.IS On our website, whatson.is, the What’s On Team works hard to consistently deliver fresh and fun stuff for everyone to read. It varies from tours and trips to current topics and everything in between! Here’s a few selections from last month!

5 REASONS WHY THE STREETS OF REAYKJAVIK EMPTY DURING EUROVISION By Rögnvaldur “Reggie” Guðmundsson Posted April 22nd, 2015, in Music

Check out the What’s On blog archives on whatson.is/blog

The Eurovision song contest is coming up, and oh what a spectacle it is! If you’ve ever been in Iceland during the contest, you know how big a deal it is, the streets empty, the main watercooler discussion topic is the qualities of the various countries’ songs, and everyone gets together at Eurovision parties. It really is a cute kind of cultural phenomenon...

CONTINUE READING ON WHATSON.IS/MUSIC

WHO THE HELL IS RICK ASTLEY? By Jóhanna Gunnþóra Guðmundsdóttir Posted April 1st, 2015, in Music

CONTINUE READING ON WHATSON.IS/MUSIC

Have you ever heard about Rick Astley? I hadn’t, until today. Apparently, he’s some famous musician who got known for his song ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’ in 1987. I’ve been listening to it all day and I feel as though I can conquer the world. The music video really lets the song take flight with an over the top 80’s groove and divine dance moves. So, Rick retired in 1993 after a great career, at the time when disco was dying. He then made a comeback in 2007 when his video to ...

BOMB ALERT IN ICELAND ... A SEXY BOMB! By Rögnvaldur “Reggie” Guðmundsson Posted April 16th, 2015, in Music Sex Bomb and exposed-chest-shirt aficionado, Sir Tom Jones, will grace the stage of Harpa, the main concert hall in Reykjavík, on June 8th 2015. Sir Jones, a.k.a. “The Voice,” has sold more than 100 million records worldwide in a variety of different genres, including pop, rock, R&B, soul, gospel, country and dance. Jones was born in a very working class area of Wales in 1940 and talks more like a bricklayer than an international pop legend. He’s been married to the ...

CONTINUE READING ON WHATSON.IS/MUSIC

By Rögnvaldur “Reggie” Guðmundsson Posted April 14nd, 2015, in Events

CONTINUE READING ON WHATSON.IS/EVENTS

A couple of weeks ago Elín wrote a blog about the advent of spring, as marked by the arrival of the Golden Plover. Well, on April 23rd, we will celebrate the First Day of Summer. What poetic omens do we have for the start of summertime, you might ask? The coming of the Minke Whales ...

ALDREI FÓR ÉG SUÐUR THE PEOPLE’S MUSIC FESTIVAL

WHAT’S ON

“IT’S SUMMER IF WE SAY IT’S SUMMER!” A GUIDE TO ICELAND’S SUMARDAGURINN FYRSTI

By Elín Elísabet Einarsdóttir Posted April 8th, 2015, in Music I spent last weekend in Ísafjörður, the capital of the West Fjords. Every year, the music festival Aldrei fór ég suður, also known as AFÉS and directly translatable as “I Never Went South”, brings thousands of guests to the town during Easter Weekend. The festival was founded in 2003 by Mugison, a great singer-songwriter and native of Ísafjörður, and his dad. It’s free of charge and some of Iceland’s most interesting bands and musicians play there every year. ...

CONTINUE READING ON WHATSON.IS/MUSIC

Bada Bing, Laugavegur 4, 101 Reykjavík

Check out the What’s On blog archives on whatson.is/blog

Ice Cream • Hot Cocoa • Waffles

WHAT’S ON

REYKJAVIK ARTS FESTIVAL

For more info, visit www.whatson.is/reykjavik-arts-festival

REYKJAVÍK ARTS FESTIVAL IS COMING UP IN MAY AND WE AT WHAT’S ON ARE SUPER STOKED ABOUT IT!

The festival includes a variety of different kinds and disciplines of art, including: music, theatre, dance, visual art and poetry, with a particular focus on innovative art and collaborations between different disciplines of art. The festival was held biannually from 1970 to 2004, and has since then been an annual three week event, taking place this year from May 13th until June 7th. The festival is a collaboration between 32 different cultural institutions and sets up artistic happenings in unusual places and venues in order to reach the widest possible audience. The festival originated at the instigation of world-renowned pianist and conductor, Vladimir Ashkenazy, and has hosted literally hundreds of internationally renowned artists, such as pop legends like Leonard Cohen (in ’88), David Bowie (’96), Björk (’94, ‘96, ‘98), Damon Albarn (’04), Led Zeppelin (’70), Smokie (’78), jazz superstars like Benny Goodman (in ’76) and Dave Brubeck (in ’86), in addition to classical legends such as Daniel Barenboim (’70) the Berlin Symphony Orchestra (’96) and Yehudi Menuhin (’72). Notable past theater artists include the Beijing Dance Theater (in ’11), Ingmar Bergman (’86), the San Fransisco Ballet (in ’90, ’00 and ’07) and Theatre de Complicité (’94), and visual arts have

included the works of Andy Warhol (’04), Dieter Roth (’94 and ’05), Roni Horn (’04, ’07) and homegrown Icelanders Erró (’78, ’84, ’98 and ’08), Ólafur Elíasson (’08) and Rúrí (’08 and ’12), to name just a tiny sample. This year the festival will feature, among other things, traditional Indian dance by Shantala Shivalingappa, a contemporary dance piece set to historic Icelandic Poetry called ‘Black Feathers‘, a new progressive Nordic opera about human rights and the freedom of the individual called MagnusMaria, concerts by Violinist Aisha Orazbayeva and Jan Lungren Jazz Trio, and the “Both Sitting Duet & Body Not Fit For Purpose” by Jonathan Burrows & Matteo Fargion, to name only a few, in addition to many other international and local artists. If all these things go a bit over your head, don’t worry, you’re not alone. You can either carefully study their program or just randomly stumble into different events and hope for the best like I’m going to do.

BANDALOOP (OPENING ACT) © Atossa Soltani

May 13th / Ingolfstorg The Opening Act of Reykjavík Arts Festival 2015 will be performed by the incomparable vertical dance group, Bandaloop. A Pioneer in the art form of vertical dance, BANDALOOP seamlessly weaves dynamic physicality, intricate choreography and the art of climbing to turn the dance floor on its side.

FOUNT – VOCAL VII

WHAT’S ON

— NOTABLE EVENTS —

May 16th / Harpa A site-specific performance art piece created specifically for Harpa’s Northern Lights hall. Over the last few years, Rúrí has created a series of works exploring the phenomenon of water in its manifold aspects. Widely shown around the world, these works include the performance series Vocal.

SHANTALA SHIVALINGAPPA Paris-raised Shantala Shivalingappa was born in Madras, India. At an early age, she began studying age-old Indian dance. With roots deep in the expressive narrative style of traditional Indian dance, her singular talent and technique have been treasured by some of the world’s best known choreographers.

PETER GRIMES © Rob Ronconi

May 22nd / Harpa Britten’s opera tells the story of the misfortunes of ship’s captain Peter Grimes. The young men Grimes hires to work as his apprentices die one after the other, and Grimes is subsequently shunned by the town residents, with tragic consequences. The lyrical and accessible music is jovial and melodramatic by turns, as the story line requires.

GUERRILLA GIRLS © Rafael Pinho

May 13th-June 7th, Lecture June 6th / Harpa The Guerrilla Girls are feminist masked avengers in the tradition of anonymous do-gooders like Robin Hood, Wonder Woman and Batman. Since their first street-art posters started appearing in New York in the 1980´s, part political posters, part works of fine art, the Guerrilla Girls have been shaking up the art world at home and abroad.

For more info, visit www.whatson.is/reykjavik-arts-festival

June 2nd / City Theatre

June 4th / Gamla Bíó

WHAT’S ON

JAN LUNDGREN TRIO Jan Lundgren is a world-renowned Swedish jazz pianist and composer who has released almost 50 recordings; his last album, Flowers of Sendai, won last year’s Jazz Journal award for best new release. Having begun his career as a classical pianist, Lundgren has devoted himself to jazz since his teens.

BLÆÐI : OBSIDIAN PIECES Various dates in May / City Theatre BLÆÐI is a unique evening of dance, staging the works of three world-renowned choreographers: Black Marrow by Damien Jalet and Ernu Ómarsdóttur, Les Médusés by Damien Jalet and two pieces from the highly-acclaimed Babel(words) by Damien Jalet and Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui.

MAGNUSMARIA © Tiina Tahvanainen

June 3rd / National Theatre of Iceland Maria Johansdotter is a brave woman who will do anything to get to live her life as an independent person and musician. She follows her heart’s voice and faces the consequences of her actions with pride. On the judge’s question whether she is male or female she answers she is both, however more of a man.

SOLID HOLOGRAM

For his icelandic debut violinist Nicola Lolli, recently appointed first concertmaster of the Icleandic Symphony Orchestra will journey through two centuries of music, from Beethoven’s last sonata, a masterpiece of classical beauty, perfect proportions and exquisite dialectic, to Thuridur Jónsdóttir’s last work and world premiere “Solid Hologram.”

BLACK FEATHERS © Marino Thorlacius

Book a tour now on whatson.is

May 29th / Harpa

(OPENING STAGE PERFORMANCE) Various dates in May / National Theatre of Iceland A dynamic performance featuring first-rank dancers and actors, along with live birds, where the latest trends in European contemporary dance meet some of the most stirring poetry ever composed in the Icelandic language.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE EVENTS AND MORE VISIT WWW.WHATSON.IS/REYKJAVIK-ARTS-FESTIVAL OR ARTFEST.IS

Kolabrautin is on 4th floor Harpa Reservations +354 519 9700 info@kolabrautin.is www.kolabrautin.is

UNIQUE EXPERIENCE AND A VIEW LIKE NO OTHER

ICELANDIC FRESHNESS MEETS ITALIAN TRADITION A meal at the elevated fourth floor of Harpa concert hall is a destination in itself. Relax and enjoy fine Italian cuisine complemented with a spectacular panoramic view of ReykjavĂk and the surrounding horizon.

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WHAT’S ON

SETTLEMENT SAGAS: A NEW EXHIBITION OF ANCIENT MANUSCRIPTS

The Reykjavík City Museum is proud to present Settlement Sagas. The central feature of this new exhibition are of the nation’s greatest treasures, ancient manuscripts that are usually kept under lock and key at The Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies. It is therefore a great honour for us to be able to put on public display for the first time these items that tell us so much about Reykjavík’s past.

More info on DesignMarch on whatson.is

The exhibition will be in the same building as the Settlement Exhibition, so visitors will be able to view the manuscripts alongside various other artefacts that have been discovered in the Reykjavík area and therefore attain a better understanding of their significance within the wider context of the history of the Settlement. This is a unique opportunity to look back in time at the beginnings and development of Iceland’s capital city over a period of more than a millennium.

Settlement Sagas comprises some of the nation’s most renowned documents, many of them written in the twelfth century but relating events that go back as far as 874 AD, when the first settlers are said to have come to Iceland. Recognised by the International World Heritage Programme as having outstanding cultural value, the documents on display include Landnámabók (the Book of the Settlement), Íslendingabók, Kjalnesingasaga, Jónsbók and the Bill of Purchase for Reykjavík (1615).

It is Iceland’s literary heritage that has preserved this ancient language and helps us remain in touch with the beginnings of our culture. They have shaped our view of history and given us a unique basis from which to study our origins as a nation and our long-standing relationship among the other Nordic countries. The Settlement Exhibition focuses on the settlement of Iceland in 874 AD and first few decades after that. The artefacts there give us an invaluable insight into the life and times of the first people to inhabit the Reykjavík area and the ways in which they adapted to their new environment. The exhibition is founded on archaeological and other scientific research and introduces visitors to the latest facts and interpretations forwarded by a range of experts. These two very different exhibitions afford an unprecedented view into the ancient origins of Icelandic culture. One based on archaeological findings from the days of the Settlement, the other on ancient documents from the same period. This is also the first time Iceland’s literary heritage and archaeological history have been placed side by side for the general public. In addition, the preservation of these precious manuscripts is one of the reasons why UNESCO officially designated Reykjavík as one of its Cities of Literature in 2011.

Iceland’s most precious cultural heritage

Reykjavík City Museum is proud to present Settlement Sagas. The central feature of this new exhibition are of the nation’s greatest treasures, ancient manuscripts that are usually kept under lock and key at The Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies. Recognised by unesco as having outstanding cultural value, the documents on display include Landnámabók (the Book of the Settlement), Íslendingabók, Kjalnesingasaga, Jónsbók and the Bill of Purchase for Reykjavík (1615). The Settlement Exhibition Settlement Sagas Aðalstræti 16/Reykjavík Open daily 9 – 20 www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is

WHAT’S ON

THE TASTE OF ICELAND If you’re coming to Iceland, you will be blown away by the vibrant and unique food culture. Between the world-class restaurants with pristine ingredients and master chefs, the quaint little local flavours and the unique and unusual traditional cuisine, there is no shortage of flavourful experiences for both the adventurous explorer and the demanding connoisseur. MODERN ICELANDIC CUISINE Modern day Iceland offers every kind of food you can imagine, and many that you probably can’t. With world-class chefs working with pristine ingredients, Icelandic Restaurants are sure to be a thrill. Most restaurants will offer some traditional Icelandic dishes, such as smoked lamb, or some twist on tradition, such as a reindeer burger. Reykjavik offers any kind of international food you can imagine, sushi, thai, mexican, you name it. It offers steak houses and seafood restaurants. You can go from very high end to fast food in one block. Because icelandic farms are relatively traditional and the icelandic nature is very pure and unspoiled, the ingredients of the food will be absolute first rate. We particularly recommend you try the lamb, which is in a league of its own. THE ICELANDIC HOT DOG – AN UNUSUAL INSTITUTION You don’t get more authentically Icelandic than the hot dog. Whereas some of the more traditional food are only really eaten during the Þorri festival, Icelanders actually eat hot dogs all the time. The Icelandic hot dog is unique in that it contains lamb in addition to the international pork and beef, and it is supposed to be eaten “með öllu” (with everything): raw chopped onions, roasted

onions, ketchup, mustard and remoulade. If you order one “with everything” up north, it will also include “cocktail sauce,” a mixture of ketchup and mayo. ICE (CREAM) LAND Icelanders, somewhat appropriately, love ice cream. They love it at any time, in fact, you can sometimes see a line at the ice cream parlour in a snowstorm. There is a long-standing debate in Reykjavík of which is better, Ísbúð Vesturbæjar or the one in Skeifan. Unless of course you’re from the north, and the obvious winner is Brynjuís. Because, well, obviously. TRADITIONAL ICELANDIC FOOD Finally, don’t miss out on the traditional Icelandic food! These dishes, prepared the same way they have for centuries, are steeped in history and... other things. There are some flavours everyone can enjoy such as the smoked lamb, flat bread, and liverwurst and some more unusual delicacies such as blood pudding and dried fish. At the far end of the spectrum you find curiosities of acquired taste such as fermented shark, singed sheep’s head and pickled ram’s testicles. These are otherwise known as “things you only eat so you can tell your friends at home you did it”. With a shot of Brennivin, an Icelandic Schnapps lovingly nicknamed “Black Death”, you can wash down your meal, along with washing away any memory you might have had of the whole affair.

Harpa Regulars They’re always around Guided Tours

Expo Pavilion

Winter time Weekdays: 15:30 Weekends: 11:00, 15:30 Summer time Daily: 09:00, 11:00, 13:30, 15:30

A 360° cinematic experience, every day in Harpa. Iceland in all its diversity, projected onto four walls and the ceiling, forming a cube that surrounds its guests.

harpa.is/guidedtours

harpa.is/expo

Reykjavík Concert Hall and Conference Centre

Austurbakki 2 101 Reykjavík Iceland

www.harpa.is +354 528 5000

WHAT’S ON

THE REYKJAVIK MUSEUM WALK Reykjavik is rich with culture and history which can be experienced in the many museums that our city has to offer. To make life easier for you, here is a proposed Museum Walk that covers the best bits of downtown Reykjavik, while within a walking distance. 1

VOLCANO HOUSE

The museum gives visitors an idea of the real life in Iceland, where volcanoes and earthquakes are a constant threat. Volcanic eruptions and earthquakes occur daily and Icelandic nature is in a state of constant flux. Volcano House lets you experience the world of Icelanders by coming as close as possible to experiencing an eruption or earthquake for yourself. They also have an in-house cinema where they offer two back-to-back documentaries on historical volcanic eruptions.

REYKJAVÍK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY

The museum’s main objective is to present both historical and contemporary photography in an artistic, social and cultural context, as well as nurture public and scholarly interest in photography and its culture. The collection’s themes are diverse, you can find family photographs, photos from portrait studios, industrial- and advertising photographs, press photography, landscape photographs and more.

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THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND

The nation’s most precious treasures are kept and displayed at The National Museum of Iceland that was established on the 24th of February in 1863. The aim of the museum is to increase and relay knowledge of Icelandic cultural heritage from the beginning until now. At the museum you will find objects that provide insight into Icelandic cultural history and displays from different eras.

THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND

The principal art museum of Iceland, established in 1884. Its art collection consists mainly of 19th and 20th century art works. In its possession are many of the keystones of Icelandic art history, as well as a growing collection of works from other countries. The National Gallery’s main role is to collect, preserve, research and exhibit Icelandic art and offer education about it, as well as there is a considerable emphasis laid on showing Icelandic art in context with international art.

REYKJAVÍK ART MUSEUM

Hafnarhús serves as the m u s e u m ’s i n s t i t u t e o f contemporary art, where new developments in art are explored through d i ve r s e ex h i b i t i o n s o f Icelandic and international artists. An exhibition of paintings by well known pop artist Erró is a permanent feature. You’ll really like the restaurant inside that has a beautiful view over the harbour. Don’t forget to stop by the Hafnarhús shop for postcards, art posters and books published by the museum.

THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION

Archaeological remains were excavated in Aðalstræti in 2001, which turned out to be the oldest relics of human habitation in Reykjavík.The relics are now preserved at their original location as the focal point of the Settlement Exhibition. The construction of Viking Age buildings is explained using multimedia technology and computer technology is used to give an impression of what life was like in the hall.

NICE

GREAT FOODGOOD DRINKS ATMO HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY 17-19

KITCHEN IS OPEN Weekends 11.30–24 Other days 11.30–23

UNO at Ingólfstorg | Tel. 561 1313 | www.uno.is

Enjoy the freedom of riding ÍSHESTAR offers horseback riding tours through the spectacular Icelandic landscape. Whether you join our tours into the wilderness of the remote highlands, through the lush countryside or, all year round, for a short ride from our Riding Centre near Reykjavik, riding with Íshestar is a great experience. For further information check out our website www.ishestar.is, call +354 555 7000 or be our friend on Facebook.

For over 30 years Íshestar has given people an opportunity to ride the Icelandic horse, the most versatile gait horse in the world. Horses are our partners and our passion.

Party Every Night. Cocktails! Live Music Every Night! 50 different kinds of beer. Live Sports Coverage Kitchen open from 11.00. Ribs, burgers, chicken wings!

LIFE IS SHORT - DRINK EARLY AUSTURSTRAETI 8 â&#x20AC;˘ REYKJAVIK

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON HOUSE 6

Check out the article The Reykjavik Sight Experience on pages 14-15 for more information about the places numbered here.

REYKJAVIK CITY MAP

With so much to see and do, why not rent a car with audio guided day tour GPS system?

Perfect day tours for the independent traveller My Way is your own audio day tour consisting of a suitable car for you and your friends together with an audio guide programmed into the GPS system. Sold in cooperation with Avis and Budget car rentals. My Way audio guided daytours exsamples: Reykjanes Peninsula

Reykjavík – Gardskagi, Hafnir, Blue Lagoon, Kleifarvatn – Hafnarfjördur Volcanic wonders and some of our country’s most unforgettable sights. The Reykjanes peninsula tour offers an extreme variety of landscapes, lava fields and geothermal activity,

MIN: 4HRS

APX: 180KM

Golden Circle

Reykjavík – Gullfoss & Geysir Iceland’s most popular day tour, The Golden Circle, a route which encompasses many of Iceland’s most famous landmarks. This tour includes some of the best known historical sites and natural phenomena in Iceland.

MIN: 5HRS APX: 250KM

Only available from: &

To book your own day tour • Contact Avis, tel. 591 4000 or Budget, tel. 562 6060. • Ask the hotel or next information centre to book it for you. • Visit the My Way website mywayiniceland.is

South Shore

Reykjavík – South Shore to Vík – Reykjavík You drive along the south coast of Iceland passing by glaciers and volcanoes, black sand coastline and moss-covered lava fields as far as the charming village Vík í Mýrdal.

MIN: 8HRS

APX: 400KM

LAUGARNESTANGI 70, REYKJAVIK OPEN: SAT-SUN 14-17

INTERPLAY A new light will be shed on the relationship between the Danish architect Finn Juhl (1912-1989) and Sigurjón Ólafsson in the years of 1940 to 1945. Both of them were pioneers, each in his field, and both went unexplored paths in their experiments with form and material. The exhibition will include Finn Juhl’s furniture which he presented at the Copenhagen Cabinetmakers’ Guild’s furniture exhibitions in 1940 and 1941; the chair The Pelikan and the sofa The Poet, along with sculptures by Sigurjón which Finn Juhl chose to interplay with his furnitures.

tradition were his main topics throughout his career spanning the first half of the twentieth century. His paintings and drawings reflect sincere love for the country and the nation. The works chosen for the exhibition reflect the width in the artist‘s themes.

HAFNARBORG STRANDGATA 34, HAFNAFJÖRÐUR OPEN: DAILY 12-17, EXCEPT THU 12-21 AND CLOSED TUE.

MEN Until May 10th. The exhibition MEN focuses on the status of men at the beginning of the 21st century and the changes that have occurred in the circumstances of the revised status of women. Works by four

Icelandic male artists will be on display, Curver Thoroddsen (b. 1976), Finnur Arnar Arnarson (b. 1965), Hlynur Hallsson (b. 1968) og Kristinn G. Harðarson (b. 1955).

CAIRNS Until May 10th. Jónína Guðnadóttir (b. 1943) has for long been at the forefront of Icelandic ceramics artists and attracted early attention for her unique functional objects. She has also developed a self-imagery in art which also illustrates her knowledge of clay along with her vivid imagination and perception of form. In this exhibition, Cairns, Jónína combines diverse materials such as concrete, glass and ceramics in her sculptures and wall pieces.

EVENT CALENDAR

SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON MUSEUM

ÁSGRÍMUR JÓNSSON COLLECTION Find more events on whatson.is

BERGSTAÐASTRÆTI 74, REYKJAVIK OPEN: TUE, SUN 14-17

IN THE LIGHT OF THE DAYS PAINTINGS AND DRAWINGS BY ÁSGRÍMUR JÓNSSON The works of Ásgrímur Jónsson span a long period in the history of our nation - the times of struggle for independence and times of conflict as the rural society is disintegrating and Reykjavík is becoming a municipality. The interpretation of the seen and the unseen, landscape and oral

IN THE LIGHT OF THE DAYS...

EVENT CALENDAR

THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION AÐALSTRÆTI 16, REYKJAVIK OPEN: DAILY 9-20

SETTLEMENT SAGAS The central feature of this new exhibition are the nation‘s greatest treasures, ancient manuscripts that are usually kept under lock at The Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic studies. This is a temporary exhibition and a rare opportunity to see these culturally valuable manuscripts that describe the settlement in Reykjavik. WOMEN STEP FORWARD

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND FRÍKIRKJUVEGUR 7, REYKJAVIK OPEN: TUE-SUN 11-17

WOMEN STEP FORWARD

Read more about these events on whatson.is

Until May 10th.

This year a century has passed since women obtained the rights to wote. On this occasion The National Gallery of Art invites its guests to take a closer look at the works of 30 women whose attribution granted Icelandic women a say in their quest for rights and opportunity. It seems that Icelandic women artists understood from early on that without an independent means of expression there was hardly any freedom.

SAGA - NARRATIVE SAGA From May 22nd.. The exhibition aims to reflect the notion of the Narrative in Icelandic visual art. It consists of artworks by many of the best known Icelandic artists such as Ólafur Elíasson, Erro, Steingrímur Eyfjörð, Helgi Þorgils Friðjónsson, Gabríela Friðriksdóttir, , as well as from international artists such as Magdalena Jetelova and Cindy Sherman. The exhibition was previously on show at Kunsthalle Recklinghausen, Germany and will travel to KUMU; Contemporary Art Museum in Tallinn, Estonia in late-2015.

EINAR JÓNSSON MUSEUM EIRÍKSGATA, REYKJAVÍK OPEN: SAT-SUN 13-17

A museum in the heart of Reykjavík and houses the life work of Icelands first Sculptor Einar Jónsson.

A KASSEN Until May 10th. The Carnegie Art Award is a prestigious art prize, established in 1998 by the Carnegie Investment Bank with the aim of promoting contemporary Nordic painting and promising young artists from Scandinavia. In November 2013 A Kassen won third prize, awarded the sum of SEK 400,000 and an obligation to take part in a touring exhibition.

SETTLEMENT SAGAS

ICELANDIC GOURMET MENU

Freshly caught seafood and free range lamb – with a modern twist

DINNER

6 COURSE MENU STARTS WITH A “REFRESHING“ SHOT OF THE NATIONAL SNAPS BRENNIVÍN FOLLOWED BY A BITE-SIZED TASTE OF PUFFIN ICELANDIC OCEAN PERCH Slow cooked ocean perch, beetroot purée, spicy butter, serrano ham, beetroot ICELANDIC MINKE WHALE Shallot vinaigrette, crispy Jerusalem artichokes ICELANDIC SEA TROUT Yuzu mayo, truffle mayo, crispy quinoa, apple ICELANDIC PLAICE Samphire, green asparagus, blood orange, lime beurre blanc RACK OF FREE RANGE ICELANDIC LAMB Lamb fillet, leeks, pickled onions, browned celeriac, baked carrots, spinach and dill cream Dessert by pastry chef Axel Þ. CHOCOLATE ROSE Chocolate mousse, raspberry gel, Sacher layer 7.990 kr. Austurstræti 16

101 Reykjavík

Tel: 551 0011

apotek.is

EVENT CALENDAR Read more about these exhibitions on whatson.is/ec 48

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM HAFNARHÚS TRYGGVAGATA 17, REYKJAVIK OPEN: FRI-WED 10-17, THU 10-20

ERRÓ AND ART HISTORY At Hafnarhús, works are always on display which provide insight into the work of Erró. The theme of this exhibition is art history itself: over the years, Erró has established a close and creative relationship with that history. Erró is well known for creating his own visual world in his collages; and in this exhibition we see works in which he has borrowed images and fragments of pictures by some of the leading artists in history, such as Picasso and Léger. He also references the work of lesser-known artists of different periods. In that way Erró may be said to write his own version of the history of art, through his works.

KATHY CLARK: BEARS; TRUTHS… From May 21st. Kathy Clark creates the installation bears; truths... using

RICHARD SERRA Richard Serra, Áfangar, 1990

used teddy bears that have been made by Serra in connection discarded by the children of with Áfangar, as well as film Ásmundarsafn HafnarHús Reykjavík. She intends to reflect and photographs from the a complex narrative about installation of the work on the SigTún TRyggvagaTa 17 life’s journey through an assemblage island.Ásmundur Details about events sveinsson: Erró and art History of hundreds of May: teddy bears that on Viðey IslandInclination in connection artistic From 21 she has taken apart, sewn, tied, with the exhibition will be - Richard Serra: Áfangar glued, and/or treated with wax - Kathy Clark: bears; truths …available at information desk and other materials. Kathy lives or the museum´s website. The - Magnús Sigurðarson: and works in Reykjavík and has exhibition is a part of Reykjavik - Process & Pretense shown in a number of solo and Arts Festival’s 2015 programme. group shows in Iceland and USA. She isOpen also the founder of two Open daily 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. KUNSTSCHLAGER window galleries, 10 namely Thursdays a.m. Wind – 8 p.m. From May 21st. and Weather, and Better Weather. Kunstschlager will be in the Curator: Yean Fee Quay. / artmuseum@reykjavik.is / +354 590 1200 www.artmuseum.is D-gallery this summer and opens six exhibitions along RICHARD SERRA: with other artists. The first ÁFANGAR exhibition opens at 21 May but From May 21st. each exhibition will last for two This year marks the twentyweeks. Many people have been fifth anniversary of the involved in the Kunstschlager installation of Richard Serra’s over the years; at present it environmental art work comprises eight artists and one Áfangar on Viðey Island. Serra art historian. Kunstschlager has (b.1939) is one of the most gained a favourable reputation respected of contemporary for interesting programmes and a artists. The exhibition includes unique ambiance. drawings and graphic works

SIGTÚN, REYKJAVIK OPEN: DAILY 10-17

ÁSMUNDUR SVEINSSON: ARTISTIC INCLINATION From May 9th. The Ásmundur Sveinsson Sculpture Museum is dedicated to the works of the sculptor Ásmundur Sveinsson (1893-1982). The collection in the Museum contains works that span the whole career of the artist and clearly show how his artistic vision developed throughout his life. Among the oldest are sculptures that he created as a student at the Sate Academy in Sweden; later came the grand masterpieces that sing the praise of the Icelandic common people, folktales and nature, and finally the collections has a number of abstract works, that the artist created in the last decades of his life.

mission e ms

OPEn daIly

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM – KJARVALSSTAÐIR FLÓKAGATA 24, REYKJAVIK OPEN: DAILY 10-17 Ásmundur Sveinsson, Stríð og flótti-War and Flight, 1943

ÁSMUNDUR SVEINSSON

medium. To give an overview of painting in Iceland today, the Reykjavík Art Museum presents two exhibitions, the first one at Hafnarhús and the second at Kjarvalsstaðir displaying works by 87 active artists, 27 at Hafnarhús and 60 at Kjarvalsstaðir. Such an extensive overview of Icelandic contemporary painting has never been presented before. Curators: Hafþór Yngvason and Kristján Jónsson.

REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY TRYGGVAGATA 15, 101 REYKJAVIK OPEN: MON-THU 12-19, FRI 12-18, SAT-SUN 13-17

mass-production which has taken over the market.

ICELAND DEFENCE FORCE Until May 10th. In 2006 the US naval air base at Keflavík closed down after more than half a century. Bragi Þór Jósefsson took these photographs on the base, after the military had departed. After the Cold War came to an end around 1990, the base lost much of its strategic importance, and its operations were gradually wound down until it closed in 2006, and the US military presence came to an end after 55 years.

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REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM ÁSMUNDARSAFN

THE CUBE: BÁRA KRISTINSDÓTTIR – THE WORKSHOP

In recent years the painting has been gaining an ever-stronger foothold worldwide. New emphasis and expansion of the medium has attracted attention and the focus has been on the diversity of contemporary painting. Iceland is no exception. Artists of all ages, with very Magnús, Sigurðarson, Rotating Renaissance Man, different artistic and vizcaya Museum & gardens, Miami,styles 2015 ideologies, have chosen the painting as their primary art

KjarvalsstaðIr

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JUST PAINTED II

In the Cube display space, photographer Bára Kristinsdóttir shows her photographic/video work The Workshop. The work provides insight into the life of two elderly gentlemen, who provide nylon coating services in a workshop on the outskirts of Reykjavík, in the last two years. In the past, business thrived at the workplace with its “old style“ handmade manufacturing. But the business never adopted modern technology, and now the time has come that their work is no longer in demand. Only the owner and one employee are left, and the company is inexorably forced out of business by Chinese

Amtmannsstíg 1 • 101 Reykjavík • 561 3303 • www.torfan.is

HOUSES IN THE TOWN

THE CINEMA GEIRSGATA 7B, REYKJAVIK

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND SUÐURGATA 41, REYKJAVIK OPEN: DAILY 10-17

THE CORNER From May 9th. An exhibtion based on new research on the bones and grave good found in a settlement-era grave. The grave was discovered in 1938 in East-Iceland. The research can provide answers on the age of the woman in the grave and where she came from, together with indications of how she looked and dressed.

ON A WAYLESS SEA Until May 10th. An installation by visual artist Kristinn E. Hrafnsson. Oceans and navigation in bygone days, locations and directions are exhibited. Works by the artist intermingle with items from the museum collection relating to the exhibition’s theme.

The aim is to cast light on the Icelanders’ past by placing the cultural heritage preserved by the National Museum in a historical context, guided by the question: What makes a nation? The exhibition includes about 2,000 objects, dating from the Settlement Age to the present, as well as about 1,000 photographs from the 20th century. It is conceived as a journey through time: it begins with the ship in which medieval settlers crossed the ocean to their new home, it ends in a modern airport, the Icelanders’ gateway to the world.

WHO? WHERE? WHAT? Until May 17th. Unidentified photographs from the Icelandic Museum of Photography in the National Museum When photographers’ archives come into museums and collections, it often transpires that the photographers have failed to keep notes of the subjects of

The Cinema is a cosy little movie theatre on the Old Harbour waterfront in the Reykjavik Centre, which offers a wide variety of different documentaries about everything from Volcanoes to Northern Lights to Glaciers made by the renowned Icelandic filmmaker Valdimar Leifsson. It has an impressive selection of scheduled shows as well as a possibility to book specifically a number of others, including films in German. Currently, all their screenings include a short feature about the recent eruption at Bárðarbunga, which started in August 2014. This includes cutting edge footage shot from a drone, which has drawn attention internationally, and which The Cinema was involved in creating. This footage in addition to other incredible and dramatic material is used to highlight the awesome power and beauty of the phenomenon.

Until May 17th. Photographs of Reykjavík buildings by Kristinn Guðmundsson

THE MAKING OF A NATION - HERITAGE AND HISTORY IN ICELAND

THE CINEMA

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HOUSES IN THE TOWN

The exhibition is intended to provide insight into the history of the Icelandic nation from the Settlement to the present day.

EVENT CALENDAR

the pictures. They themselves knew what the photo showed, and remembered where and when it was taken, so they had no need for such records. In order to make the best possible use of an image, it must be placed in its historic context, located in time and place. Such information greatly enhances the value and usefulness of the picture.

EVENT CALENDAR Read more about these exhibitions on whatson.is/ec 52

THE CULTURE HOUSE HVERFISGATA 15, REYKJAVIK

POINTS OF VIEW The exhibition gives visitors the chance to delve into the collections of six different cultural institutions, the National Museum of Iceland, National Gallery of Iceland, Natural History Museum, National Archives of Iceland, National and University Library of Iceland and Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies. Points of view will offer an innovative guide to a nation’s cultural history exhibiting thousand-year-old treasures e.g. manuscripts to the latest in Icelandic art.

REYKJAVÍK MARITIME MUSEUM

UN PEU PLUS

GRANDAGARÐUR 8, REYKJAVIK OPEN: DAILY 10-17

THE HISTORY OF SAILING This exhibition recounts Iceland’s maritime history and the growth of Reykjavík Harbor. Iceland’s settlement can be traced to Nordic seafarers sailing the North Atlantic. The first settler, Ingólfur Arnarson, chose the area that is now Reykjavík to make his home. It was a natural haven, with the inlet at Grandagarður being well sheltered for pulling boats safely ashore. For centuries, this natural harbor was one of the country’s main fisheries and trading centers, and over the years, Reykjavík Harbor grew to become Iceland’s largest port..

FROM POVERTY TO ABUNDANCE Portrays the Icelandic fisheries at the turn of the 20th century, and realistically depicts the lives of

Icelandic fishermen. During this time, tenant fishermen resided in modest coastal cottages during the fishing season. On display is Farsæll, an original four-person rowboat built around 1900 in the Westman Islands.

MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART GARÐATORG 1, 210 GARÐABÆR OPEN: TUE-SUN 12-17

UN PEU PLUS Fahion designer Helga Björnsson spent years in the midst of the haute couture at Louis Féraud in Paris and has created costumes for Icelandic theatres. Her drawings and sketches are works of an artist. With only a few pencil lines she conjures up both elegance and sensuality. Her rich fantasy and strong demand to always surpass

oneself have created a body of work that in its simplicity exposes the art of the one who works in the fast-paced world of fashion.

ÁMUNDI In a career that now spans 30 years, Ámundi Sigurðsson has worked every kind of project imaginable in visual mediums for graphic designers. The designer‘s position, listening to his client‘s wishes and working within a certain framework requires him to be a good reader of his environment and skilled at identifying his client‘s needs. Ámundi‘s body of work certainly displays decades of style history but his work is mostly characterized by the contrasts found in the conflict of the creative urge on one hand and the request for riveting images on the other.

CHECK OUT EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE MUSEUMS IN REYKJAVÍK AND NEIGHBORING TOWNS—THE EXHIBITIONS, THE EVENTS AND ALL THE INFORMATION—ON WWW.WHATSON.IS/MUSEUMS.

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REYKJAVIK ARTS FESTIVAL

NOTABLE DAYS

ALL THAT JAZZ

MAY 23RD EUROVISION!

MÚLINN-JAZZ CLUB

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More info on www.whatson.is

Monday nights at Harpa.

MAY 24TH HVÍTASUNNUDAGUR

KEXJAZZ

Every day at Harpa.

MAY 25TH ANNAR Í HVÍTASUNNU

Tuesday nights at Kex Hostel.

FESTIVAL CITY

PUB QUIZ

REYKJAVIK ARTS FESTIVAL

PUB QUIZ AT BAR ANANAS

May 13th - June 7th. More info on pages 28-30 and on www.whatson.is/reykjavik-arts-festvial

NOTABLE FESTIVITIES & RECURRING EVENTS

Every Sunday night.

MOVIE QUIZ AT LEBOWSKI BAR

RAFLOST - ICELANDIC FESTIVAL OF ELECTRONIC ARTS

Every Thursday night.

May 21st-23rd - More info on www.whatson.is

COZY SUNDAY

SAGA FEST

Sundays at Kex Hostel. Activities for the whole family.

May 23rd-24th. More info on www.whatson.is/saga-fest

THE ICELAND EXPO PAVILION The pavilion features a unique 360-degree film where the walls and ceiling form a visual unity. More info on whatson.is.

GUIDED MUSEUM TOURS NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND Every Tuesday and Friday at 12:10 PM from May 15th until September 15th.

ÁRBÆR OPEN AIR MUSEUM Guided tour every day at 13:00.

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EVENT CALENDAR

ONE-OFF EVENTS MAY 1ST, FRIDAY HARPA »» Rick Astley

MAY 2ND, SATURDAY NEXUS »» Free Comic Book Day

HÚRRA »» Dimma

HARPA »» Bærum Symphonic Band »» Fóstbræður Spring Concert »» FÍH School Top Jazz Ensemble »» How to Become Icelandic in 60 Minutes »» Tina - Queen of Rock

MAY 3RD, SUNDAY NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND »» Guided Walk: Icelandic Women Artists

HANNESARHOLT »» Poetry Singing

MAY 5TH, TUESDAY HARPA »» Múlinn-Jazz Club: Árni Heiðar Trio

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MAY 7TH, THURSDAY

LAUGARDALSHÖLL »» Tom Jones

MAY 8TH, FRIDAY HÚRRA »» Valdimar

HARPA »» WONDERWAGON – an old concert bus visiting Reykjavík art scene »» Chaplin - Modern Times »» Borealis Band

MAY 9TH, SATURDAY HARPA »» Borealis Band »» 20th Anniversary of The Female Choir Léttsveit Reykjavíkur »» How to Become Icelandic in 60 Minutes

MAY 10TH, SUNDAY NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND »» Guided Tour: WOmen Step Forward

MAY 13TH, WEDNESDAY HARPA »» Romeo and Juliet »» Múlinn-Jazz Club: Jimmy Nyborg “Nordklang”

MAY 14TH, THURSDAY HANNESARHOLT »» Nordic Improv Concert

MAY 15TH, FRIDAY HARPA »» WONDERWAGON – an old concert bus visiting Reykjavík art scene

MAY 16TH, SATURDAY HARPA »» Jesus Christ Superstar in Concert »» Fount – Vocal VII »» How to Become Icelandic in 60 Minutes

MAY 17TH, SUNDAY HANNESARHOLT »» Sing-a-Long

MAY 18TH, MONDAY TJARNARBÍÓ »» The Border

MAY 19TH, TUESDAY TJARNARBÍÓ »» The Border

MAY 21ST, THURSDAY HANNESARHOLT »» Poetry Concert - Mezzosopran and a Harmonica

MAY 22ND, FRIDAY HARPA »» WONDERWAGON – an old concert bus visiting Reykjavík art scene »» Peter Grimes

MAY 23RD, SATURDAY HÚRRA »» Eurotastic

HOTEL NATURA »» White Tantric Yoga - One Day Meditation Event

HANNESARHOLT »» With Spring at Heart Concert

HARPA »» How to Become Icelandic in 60 Minutes

MAY 26TH, TUESDAY HARPA »» Múlinn-Jazz Club: K tríó and Aurora kvartett

MAY 27TH, WEDNESDAY HARPA »» Gabriel Iglesias

MAY 28TH, THURSDAY HARPA »» Chopin and Nielsen

MAY 29TH, FRIDAY HARPA »» WONDERWAGON – an old concert bus visiting Reykjavík art scene »» Solid Hologram

MAY 30TH, SATURDAY HARPA »» Elvis lives!

MAY 31ST, SUNDAY HARPA »» And thanks to countless instants, lit by morning - Kristinn Sigmundsson

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND EVEN MORE EVENTS, VISIT US ONLINE AT WHATSON.IS/EC

YOU CAN ALSO SEND US YOUR EVENTS ON WHATSON.IS/EC/ADD OR EVENTS@WHATSON.IS

SEA ANGLING

PUFFIN WATCHING Make it’s Eldsure ing!

daily at 11:00 from 1 May to 31 August

daily at 9:30 and 15:00 from 15 May to 15 August

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WHALE WATCHING from Reykjavík all year round EL-01 / EL-02 / EL-03

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Aug Sep Oct Nov-Dec 9:00 9:00 9:00 10:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 14:00 17:00 17:00*

ART & CULTURE

ÁRBÆR OPEN AIR MUSEUM

THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION

REYKJAVIK MARITIME MUSEUM

Kistuhylur, Reykjavik 411-6304 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Guided tours daily at 13.00 or by appointment.

Aðalstræti 16, Reykjavik 411-6370 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Daily 9-20

Grandagarður 8, Reykjavik 411-6340 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17

REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY

THE EINAR JÓNSSON MUSEUM

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM/ FREE ENTRY The aim of the museum is to shape a unique vision and to be leading in its field. The museum preserves various collections from professional and amateur photographers.

A museum with indoor and outdoor exhibitions dedicated to the work of Einar Jónsson, Iceland’s first modern sculptor (1874-1954). The museum was built in the early 1900’s when Einar Jónsson offered all of his works as a gift to the Icelandic nation.

Tryggvagata 15, Reykjavik 411-6390 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Mon-Thu 12-19, Fri 12-18, Sat & Sun 13-17

Hallgrímstorg 3, Reykjavik 551-3797 | www.lej.is Hours: Sat-Sun 13-17

HAFNARBORG

THE NUMISMATIC MUSEUM

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM This unique museum was founded in 1957 in order to give visitors a tangible sense of Reykjavík’s past. It comprises a village-like collection of over twenty “homes,” each creating a very interesting exhibition in itself.

VIÐEY ISLAND

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM Unspoiled nature reigns on island of Viðey, which has a unique place in Icelandic history. Birdlife abounds on the island, while outstandi ng works of modern art also make their mark.

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Viðey Reykjavik 533-5055 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is

REYKJAVIK CITY LIBRARY

FREE ENTRY Looking for a place to hang out, browse the internet, get access to Wi-Fi or meet the Reykjavik locals? Then Reykjavik City Library is the perfect place to visit. Have a seat and dip into the latest magazine or relax while checking out their great selection of books. Tryggvagata 15, Reykjavik 411-6100 | borgarbokasafn.is Hours: Mon-Thu 10-19, Fri 11-18, Sat & Sun 13-17

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM Experience Viking-Age Reykjavik at the Settlement Exhibition. Multimedia techniques bring Reykjavik’s past to life, providing visitors with insights into how people lived in the Viking Age, and what the environment looked like to the settlers.

FREE ENTRY Hafnarborg has a collection of Icelandic art and regular exhibitions presenting leading Icelandic and international artists. Collection exhibitions are a regular part of the program. Around exhibitions are workshops and guided tours. Strandgata 34, Hafnarfjörður 585-5790 | www.hafnarborg.is Hours: Daily 12-17, Thu 12-21, Closed Tue

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM It is impossible to truly get to know Iceland without getting to know its fishing history. The museum’s main exhibitions illustrate the development from rowing boats to m o d e r n t raw l e r s a n d t h e construction of Reykjavik harbour.

FREE ENTRY A selection from the numismatic collection is on display on the ground floor of the Central Bank’s main building in Kalkofnsvegur 1, Reykjavik. Kalkofnsvegur 1, Reykjavik 569-9600 www.sedlabanki.is Hours: Mon-Fri 13:30-15:30

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The National Gallery of Iceland has come a long way from its origins. To begin with, the collection consisted of donated artwork, mainly by Danish artists. Today the museum stands at Frikirkjuvegur in central Reykjavik, displaying both Icelandic and International art. Fríkirkjuvegur 7, Reykjavík 515-9600 | www.listasafn.is Hours: Daily 11-17, Closed Mon

ASÍ ART GALLERÝ

FREE ENTRY This museum was founded in 1961 when industrialist and book publisher Ragnar Jónsson donated his personal art collection to the museum, which consisted of paintings by Iceland’s most renowned painters. His wish was to establish an art museum that would bring art to the working class.

HANNESARHOLT

Cultural center and historic home of Hannes Hafstein, Iceland’s first Minister of State, now houses the non-profit Hannesarholt, dedicated to retrieving cultural memory, and revitalizing cultural roots. Bordstofan Bistro open daily from 11am – 6pm. Short doc on Hannes Hafstein and early Reykjavik Guided historic city walks Tue and Thu at 1 pm by appointment. Grundarstígur 10, Reykjavik 511-1904 | www.hannesarholt.is Hours: Daily 11-17

Offers a state-of-the-art exhibitions on the cultural history of Iceland. The permanent exhibition, Making of a Nation - Heritage and History of Iceland, gives a comprehensive picture of Iceland’s cultural history through the ages to the present day. Suðurgata 41, Reykjavik 530-2200 | nationalmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17

SAGA MUSEUM

From the time of the earliest settlers, history is brought to life in a unique and exciting way. The Saga Museum intimately recreates key moments in Icelandic history, moments that have determined the fate of our people and which give a compelling view into how Icelanders have lived for more than a millenium.

SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON MUSEUM

Closed until April 23rd. A museum that Icelandic sculptor Sigurjón Ólafsson’s wife founded as a tribute to his life and work in 1984. She had his studio in Laugarnes converted to an exhibition space to house his collection of works, including sculptures, sketches, drawings and biographical material. Laugarnestangi 70 553-2906 | www.lso.is Hours: Sat-Sun 14-17

MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART

Its objective is to collect, study and present Icelandic design and crafts from 1900 to the present day. This young museum, the only one of its kind in Iceland, holds regular exhibitions of Icelandic and international design during the year. Exhibitions from the museum‘s own collection are regularly held.

Grandagardur, Reykjavik 511-1517 | www.sagamuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-18

Garðatorg 1, Garðabær 512-1525 | www.honnunarsafn.is Hours: Daily 12-17, Closed Mon

VOLCANO HOUSE

AURORA REYKJAVIK

Tryggvagata 11, Reykjavik 555-1900 | ww.volcanohouse.is Hours: Daily 10-21

Grandagarður 2, Reykjavik 780-4500 | aurorareykjavik.is Hours: Daily 9-21

Shows documentaries that give a good idea of real life in Iceland, where volcanoes and earthquakes are a constant threat. There’s also a geological stone exhibition, which gives a brief overview of Iceland’s geological history and volcanic system, and a boutique, with Icelandic designs, artwork, lava rocks, pumice, bottles of ash and Lava Jewellery.

The Northern Lights Center, Aurora Reykjavik, allows you to experience the Northern Lights in a completely different way, both if you saw them, but as well if they escaped you while in Iceland. The center features information, education and of course stunning visuals of the elusive lights that’ll get your heart racing.

Find more recommendations on whatson.is

Freyjugata 41, Reykjavik 511-5353 | www.listasafnasi.is Hours: Daily 13-17, Closed Mon

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND

ART & CULTURE

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND

ART & CULTURE

KJARVALSSTAÐIR

Mainly devoted to paintings and sculpture by well established Icelandic and international artists. Kjarvalsstaðir offers a permanent exhibition of key works by one of Iceland’s most beloved landscape painters, Jóhannes S. Kjarval, as well as changing exhibitions that explore various thematic and historical aspects of Icelandic art. Flókagata 24, Reykjavik 517-1290 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17

GLJÚFRASTEINN LAXNESS MUSEUM

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Halldór Laxness is arguably the most famous Icelandic writer of all time, and the only Icelander to have won a Nobel Prize, which he received for literature in 1955. Gljúfrasteinn was his home until his death, and today it is a museum dedicated to his life and work.

ÁSMUNDARSAFN

Opened in 1983, the collection is housed in a unique building designed and constructed mostly by the artist himself from 19421950. The original building served Sveinsson as studio and home; behind it he built a crescent-shaped structure as a work- and exhibition space. Sigtún, Reykjavik 553-2155 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17.

THE CULTURE HOUSE A unique venue dedicated to Icelandic history and cultural heritage. In the building there are facilities for exhibitions, meetings, gatherings, lectures, artistic events, public ceremonies and other occasions. On the ground floor you will find a restaurant and a souvenir shop.

Gljúfrasteinn, Mosfellsbær 586-8066 | www.gljufrasteinn.is Hours: Tue-Sun 10-16

Hverfisgata 15, Reykjavik 545-1400 | www.thjodmenning.is

THE CINEMA

COLLECTORS EMPORIUM ICELAND

A cozy place in a loft at the lively Old Harbour down town Reykjavík, where there is a daily show of films of volcanoes, northern lights and nature gems of Iceland made by a re-known Icelandic filmmaker. At The Cinema one can also enjoy a rock exhibition, buy DVD´s and more, look at books, get refreshments, information - or just relax in a unique place. Geirsgata 7b, Reykjavík 898 6628 | www.thecinema.is Hours: Daily 12-20

In a basement of sorts on Hverfisgata, just off Reykjavik’s main shopping street, you’ll find this hidden gem. Imagine it as a museum where you can take home anything you particularly fancy. A vast collection of unique and historic Icelandic items, such as stamps, coins and much more, make it well worth a visit. Hverfisgata 16, Reykjavik Hours: Mon-Fri 10-17, Sat 12-16

HAFNARHÚS

The Reykjavik Art Museum took p o ss e ss i o n o f i t s p o r t i o n o f Hafnarhús (Harbour House) in April 2000. Hafnarhús was built in 1932-39 for the offices and warehouses of Reykjavik Harbor and was at that time one of the largest buildings in the country. Tryggvagata 17, Reykjavik 590-1200 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17, Thu 10-20

ÁSGRÍMUR JÓNSSON COLLECTION

One of the pioneers of Icelandic art and the first Icelander to take up painting professionally. Having died in 1958, he bequeathed all his works, as well as his studio home to the Icelandic nation. Bergstaðastræti 74, Reykjavík 515-9625 Hours: Sun 14-17

WHALES OF ICELAND

The largest whale exhibition in Europe (and perhaps even the world), where guests can learn about the giants of the sea in a calm and modern environment. The permanent exhibition features whales like guests have never seen them before. It is truly a giant experience. Fiskislóð 23-25, Reykjavik 571-0077 | whalesoficeland.is Hours: Daily 9-19

SOUVENIR SHOP S HOP OF T H E Y E A R 2 0 1 2

The viking:info Laugavegur 1 · Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 1 - 3 · Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 104 · Akureyri Adalstræti 27 · Ísafjördur e:info@the viking

Ísafjördur

Akureyri Reykjavík

www.theviking.is TAX FREE

Two Icelandic themed villages

HLI

Ð Á LF TA NE SI

Restaurant & Lodging

The Viking Village is a unique place and it is the only Viking theme Hotel and restaurant in Iceland. We have step by step been developing our facilities over the last 24 years and will hopefully continue to do so in the future. We offer Hotel accommodation and Viking houses. Good for families and groups.

The Fisherman´s village, our newest accommodation is Hlið in Álftanes only few minutes drive from the Viking Village. Like a country home by the seaside. Such an idyllic place to visit. The restaurant is open for groups in the evenings. Close to the president´s residence.

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Viking feasts - Souvenirs - Live entertainment most nights “You haven't been in Iceland if you haven't been to us“ Don’t miss it! Booking: www.vikingvillage.is | +354 565 1213

This is Solla, the winner of Best Gourmet Raw Chef and Best Simple Raw Chef in the 2011 and 2012 “Best of Raw” Awards. Come and try out one of her great dishes at her restaurant Gló, Iceland’s most popular health food restaurant operating at three different locations in the great Reykjavik area. Reykjavík: Engjateigur 19 and Laugavegur 20b · Hafnarfjörður: Strandgata 34 · www.glo.is

Austur is one of the hottest clubs in downtown Reykjavik, and has been since it first opened in 2009. Austur is located in Austurstraeti, one of the main bar- and shopping streets downtown, and even though the surrounding area is filled with clubs and bars, Austur seems to be the center of attention. Austurstræti 7, Reykjavik 568-1907

HÚRRA

KALDI BAR

One of the coolest bars in Reykjavik these days is Kaldi Bar. In close cooperation with north-Icelandic micro-brewery of the same name, Kaldi offers you a selection of craftbrewed beers on tap. Great happy hour and great fun, Kaldi is a place not-to-be-missed! Laugavegur 20b, Reykjavik 581-2200

THE CELTIC CROSS

An Irish pub with multiple beers on tap. With a big screen TV to watch the game, while enjoying a nice cold pint of beer, the Celtic Cross features friendly staff and a nice atmosphere that makes you feel just at home. Hverfisgata 26, Reykjavik 511-3240

DEN DANSKE KRO

B5 bar/bistro has become a very popular establishment with the locals of the capital. With its very contemporary and stylish interior, b5 is laid back during the day, while as night falls, the lights dim and the atmosphere changes accordingly.

There is live music playing every night at Den Danske Kro and sometimes there are live football games, pub quizzes, beer bingo, darts and happy hours. Den Danske Kro is a casual place in the heart of Reykjavik where everyone is welcome.

Naustin, Reykjavik www.hurra.is

Bankastræti 5, Reykjavik 552-9600 www.b5.is

Ingólfsstræti 3, Reykjavik 552-0070 www.danski.is

KAFFIBARINN

BAR ANANAS

THE ENGLISH PUB

Klapparstígur 38, Reykjavik

Austurstræti 12, Reykjavik 578-0400 www.facebook.com/enskibarinn

Best known as Damon Albarn’s hangout place back in the days, this most famous bar in Iceland is a popular destination for the artsy and univer sity crowd. During the week it‘s more of a café, but on the weekend the volume rises and KB becomes one of the hottest bars in Reykjavik. Bergstaðastræti 1, Reykjavik 551-1588 www.kaffibarinn.is

Ten seconds from Laugavegur, you´ll find Iceland’s one and only BeachBar/Tiki Bar in downtown Reykjavík. There, most things are made in the shape of a pineapple. Pillows, glasses, chandeliers, candlesticks and more. At weekends city´s best DJs will make guests feel sunny while they enjoy the strangest cocktails in town. Go for the Flamingophant cocktail!

In the mood for a pint? English Pub offers over 35 brands of beer and Whiskey. Whatever your preference – you will find it here. This is also a great place if you would like to catch some football (soccer). Inside they have 3 big screens and 2 TV’s so that you can catch all the action as it happens.

Find more recommendations on whatson.is

Dark and raw, this large bar/club opens up its back room to make a concert venue, with live music or DJs most nights. They’ve got six Icelandic microbreweries on tap and happy hour runs till 21:00. One of the coolest and hipster friendly places in town and your best bet of catching the next big thing from Iceland.

NIGHTLIFE

AUSTUR

SHOPPING & STYLE Find more recommendations on whatson.is 66

ANNA MARÍA DESIGN

For over twenty years, jewelry designer Anna Maria has created her things of gold and silver, a design that is both pure and timeless. Exceptional attention to detail and craftsmanship create the elegant simplicity that shines through Anna Maria’s products. Skólavörðustígur 3, Reykjavik 551-0036 www.annamariadesign.is

LISTVINAHÚSIÐ

The oldest ceramic workshop in Iceland established 1927. Three generations of artistic potters. U n i q u e h a n d m a d e ce ra m i c s , Viking masks and various ceramic potteries decorated with lava, made by Gudmundur Einarsson. Located right next to Hallgrímskirkja and the statue of “Leif the Lucky”. Skólavörðustígur 43, Reykjavik 551-2850 www.listvinahusid.is

FJALLAKOFINN

A t F j a l l a ko f i n n yo u c a n f i n d top quality clothing and good equipment at a fair price. They offer good advise on all backpacking and outdoor related things and offer basic things like backpacks, sleeping bags and tents for rent. A licensed retailer of many big brands, you’ll find everything for your outdoor needs.

On Laugavegur, in the heart of Reykjavík, you’ll find the very unique Little Christmas Shop—which is dedicated to the spirit of Christmas, all year round. There you’ll find Icelandic decorations and everything needed for that festive spirit. Should not be missed as it is definitely one of the most special and fun stores to visit.

Laugavegur 11, Reykjavik 510-9505 | www.fjallakofinn.is

Laugavegur 8, Reykjavik 552-2412

ÁLAFOSS

METAL DESIGN

One of Iceland’s major woollen industry shops, the Álafoss store. Situated in old factory premises that for decades were the leading manufacturers and exporters of Icelandic woollens, Álafoss is a company that strives towards offering the newest wares along with the traditional Icelandic wool sweaters. Laugavegur 8, Reykjavik 566-6303 | www.alafoss.is

LISTASELIÐ

IGLÓ&INDÍ

Skólavörðustígur 17b, Reykjavik 551-5675 | www.listaselid.is Hours: Mon-Fri 12-18, Sat 11-16

Skólavörðustígur 2, Reykjavik 445-2020 | www.igloandindi.com

Six energetic women design and create exclusive art, while also running and working in the gallery. The gallery offers gift vouchers, issued by the store or by the Centrum organization that can be redeemed within most shops on Laugarvegur and Skólavörðustígur in downtown Reykjavik.

THE LITTLE CHRISTMAS SHOP

Loved by parents and children alike and praised in the media for boldness and creativity, Ígló&Indí has offered both parents and children an ever growing collection of clothes with a fresh take on children’s fashion since 2008— representing the best childhood has to offer.

The jewellery forms which Metal design is known for are inspired by the Icelandic flora. But what stands out the most is the shape “The Coast” that is inspired by the waves of the Icelandic coast.”The coast silver jewellery line is for ladies and gentlemen. Skólavörðustígur 2. Reykjavik 552-5445 www.MetalDesignReykjavik.is

CINTAMANI

Nowhere in the populated world does the weather change as fast, or as often as here. Thus Icelandic designers have to meet the requirements of consumers who have to go out all year long in harsh conditions. That‘s where the label Cintamani comes to the rescue. Their goal is to keep us warm, dry and comfortable, whatever the weather may bring. Bankastræti 7, Reykjavik 533-3800 | www.cintamani.is

Amazing 6 course menu

A unique Icelandic Feast Starts with a shot of the Icelandic national spirit “Brennivín“ Puffin Smoked puffin with blueberries, croutons, goat cheese, beet root Minke whale Minke whale with tataki Arctic charr “Torched“ arctic charr with parsnip purée, fennel, dill mayo Lobster Lobster cigar with chorizo, dates, chili jam Reindeer Reindeer slider with blue cheese, portobello, steamed bun Free range icelandic lamb Lamb with coriander, pickled red cabbage, fennel, butternut squash purée, chimichurri And to end on a high note ... Icelandic Skyr Skyr panna cotta with raspberry sorbet, white chocolate crumble, passion foam, dulche de leche

6.990 kr. Our kitchen is open 17.00–23.00 sun.–thu. 17.00–24.00 fri.–sat.

Sushi Samba Þingholtsstræti 5 • 101 Reykjavík Tel. 568 6600 • sushisamba.is

SHOPPING & STYLE

GULLKÚNST HELGU

With its wide open spaces and beautiful treasures displayed in glass casting, Gullkúnst Helgu feels more like a gallery than a jewelry shop. Located on central Laugavegur, Reykjavik´s busiest shopping street, this family owned shop is not to be missed. Laugavegur 13, Reykjavik 561-6660 www.gullkunst.is

STUDIO STAFN

At Studio Stafn you will be able to look at art, purchase art and have your art framed! Great works and historical paintings by Iceland’s most famous artists could become all yours if you pay them a visit. If you’re not looking to buy art, at least stop by and take a look.

Find more recommendations on whatson.is

Ingólfsstræti 6, Reykjavik 552-4700 www.studiostafn.is

THE HANDKNITTING ASSOCIATION OF ICELAND

Renowned for its excellent products and quality. Offering the widest selection of traditional hand knitted Icelandic sweaters, the range of products also includes special designs and a variety of woolen products from leading Icelandic manufactures. Skólavörðustígur 19, Reykjavik 552-1890 | www.handknit.is

MICHELSEN

KRAUM

Laugavegur 15, Reykjavik 511-1900 | www.michelsen.is

Aðalstræti 10, Reykjavik 517-7797 www.kraum.is

HILDUR HAFSTEIN

GEYSIR

Inside their spacious shop in downtown Reykjavik, Michelsen Watchmakers offer you to browse one of Iceland’s best selection of watches. Along with their own design they also have a wide selection of well-known brands including Rolex, Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Diesel, Movado, Swiss Military and more.

A wonderful little workshop, where Hildur Hafstein creates her handmade Icelandic jewelry line, KORA. Inspired by different elements, such as Buddhism and the flower power, a visit to Hildur Hafstein will be a pleasant experience. Although the store is technically on Laugavegur, you walk in from Klapparstígur! Laugavegur 20b, Reykjavik 771-1177 www.HildurHafstein.is

EPAL

Their main goal has been to increase Icelanders interest and respect for fine design by introducing and providing top quality design products from all over the world, particularly Scandinavia. Epal has always been very supportive of Icelandic designers and done what they can to help them promote their design around the world. Skeifan 6, & Harpa Reykjavik Keflavík Airport 568-7740 | www.epal.is

Natural light floods the wooden floors and the fresh white walls of this stunning design hub and retail outlet, which already attracts some of Iceland´s top talents. More than 70 designers are contributing to a huge selection of products that include children’s puzzles, fish skin lamps and exquisite jewellery.

Rustic, vintage interior, intertwined with the latest fashion in outdoor and woolen clothing. Add some puffin, reindeers and other iconic animals and you‘ve got one of the coolest shops in town. This is one place you‘ll have to visit, if only for the experience. Skólavörðustíg 16, Reykjavík 519-6000 www.geysir.com

KRINGLAN

Kringlan Shopping Centre is conveniently located close to downtown Reykjavik. Standing at 50.000 sq.m. and equipped with 150 shops and services, including a multiplex cinema, a seven-outlet food court and three themed restaurants, it has something to suit every need. Kringlan 4-12, Reykjavik 517-9000 | www.kringlan.is

SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍGUR 14 - 101 REYKJAVÍK - TEL: +354 571 1100

WE’RE OPEN! FÍTON / SÍA

YOU'LL FIND US AT KRINGLAN SHOPPING CENTER

FOOD & DRINK

TORFAN RESTAURANT

This great restaurant combines traditional French cuisine with a Nordic touch. It is traditional but still connects to the present and the outcome is a classical cuisine surprise. Torfan is at Bernhöftstorfa, in one of the cities most beautiful house, built in 1838. Amtmannsstígur 1, Reykjavík 561-3303 | www.torfan.is

AUSTURLANDAHRAÐLESTIN

Find more recommendations on whatson.is

An excellent Indian restaurant, focusing on quality take-away, with the option of eating in. This means that while it‘s technically “fast food”, it’s definitely of restaurant q u a l i t y. T h e m e n u i n c l u d e s everything you could expect from an Indian restaurant, with the Chicken Tandoori being especially recommended.

Lækjargata 8, Reykjavik 578-3838 | www.hradlestin.is

SNAPS

A new restaurant in Iceland situated at Odinstorg. Snaps is a classic french bistro using local Icelandic ingredients. The location could not be better. Snaps is literally a few steps away from downtown Reykjavik, close to the National Theatre, The National Gallery of Iceland and the two main shopping streets of Reykjavik” Óðinstorg, Reykjavik 511-6677 | www.snaps.is

VEGAMÓT BISTRO

GRILLIÐ

Vegamótastígur 4, Reykjavik 511-3040 | www.vegamot.is

Radisson BLU Hotel, Reykjavik 525-9960 | www.grillid.is

ARGENTÍNA STEAKHOUSE

HAMBORGARABÚLLAN – BURGER JOINT

Barónsstígur 11a, Reykjavik 551-9555 | www.argentina.is

Geirsgata 1, Reykjavik 511-1888 www.bullan.is

UNO RESTAURANT

APOTEK

Is a centrally located and affordable restaurant that boasts an extensive international menu with an emphasis on Tex-Mex, Italian, Indian and many light meal options. During the weekend Vegamót transforms into a bar with refreshing cocktails, a wide selection of beers and popular DJ’s playing well into the night.

They offer some of the the finest cuisine there is to find in the whole city. Grilling meat and fish of all kinds Argentinian style using wooden coal is what they do better than any other restaurant and frankly, you won‘t believe your own tastebuds

Uno is a relatively new, modern Italian restaurant in downtown Reykjavik, where original Italian culinary customs and Icelandic ingredients come together to form a delightful treat. Hafnarstræti 1-3, Reykjavik 561-1313 | www.uno.is

Just last year they celebrated their 50th anniversary. From the very beginning, Grillid has been regarded as one of the best restaurants in Iceland. If you want fine dining, perfectly executed food, professional service and excellent wines with a spectacular view over the city, you have come to the right place.

Since 2004, the Joint has kept it simple, fun and delicious. Sitting right by the Old Harbour, in a small, iconic house, the atmosphere of the Burger Joint is hard to find elsewhere. You can feel the joy of the staff, as they serve you juicy burgers, exploding with great taste.

An exciting restaurant located in one of the most beautiful corners of Reykjavik, Apotek Restaurant is casual-smart, offering delicious food in a vibrant atmosphere and stylish surroundings. The menu is a fun mix of Icelandic and European cuisine and the dishes are designed to share and enjoy together. Austurstræti 16, Reykjavik 551-0011 | www.apotek.is

The concept of the restaurant is "c a s u a l f u n d i n i n g" a n d w e p r e p a r e w h a t w e w o u l d call a simple honest, "feel good", comfort food, where we take on the classics with a modern twist.

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2.890

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Salted Cod With almond and chive butter, fig and potatoes

3.650

IKR

+3 5 4 5 1 7 4 3 0 0 geysirbistro.is

+354 527 5000 grillhusid.is

A new restaurant opposite the old harbour that offers traditional steak dishes along with some exciting and fairly unorthodox choices. The pride and joy of The Steakhouse is the Mibrasa charcoal oven, a rare oven that is designed to cook the perfect steak by mixing modern technology with ancient tradition.

AUSTURINDÍAFJELAGIÐ

JÓMFRÚIN

The spices used to season the food at Austur-Indiafjelagid are imported directly from India and blended on the spot by their team of highly experienced chefs. The Tandoori dishes on the menu must be mentioned, as the chefs have truly mastered the art of Tandoori grilling.

An open-sandwich restaurant in the Danish tradition offering authentic Danish smørrebrød along with a selection of hot dishes. The restaurant is located in the heart of the city centre and seats 80 guests. It is a popular lunch venue, especially with people from the business sector.

Tryggvagata 4-6, Reykjavik 561-1111 | www.steik.is

Hverfisgata 56, Reykjavik 552-1630 | www.austurindia.is

Lækjargata 4, Reykjavik 551-0100 | www.jomfruin.is

KOL

THE ICELANDIC BAR

PERLAN

Kol describes itself as “casual fine dining with a big bar”. The name comes from the unique charcoal oven which lends a very special, rustic flavour to the dishes. The restaurant offers a wide variety of sophisticated cocktails, mixed with handmade syrups and juices.

The Icelandic Bar is very aptly named: it is an Icelandic bar. But more than that, it is a bar that aims to preserve the essence of being Icelandic by combining the historical and cultural heritage of this ancient land with the very hip and cutting edge culture of modern times.

For the finest in dining, nothing compares to Perlan Restaurant. While your taste buds delight to superb cuisine, you will enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of Reykjavik and beyond as the restaurant gently completes a full rotation every two hours.

Skólavörðustígur 40, Reykjavik 517-7474

GLÓ

Located inside Listhusid in Laugardalur valley, Glo is Iceland‘s hottest new organic restaurant. The menu consists of vegetarianand raw food courses, meat dishes, soups and salads. The courses are somewhat modest as they are simple, filling and not flooded with too much spice or ingredients. Laugavegur 20b, Reykjavik 553-1111 | www.glo.is

Ingólfsstræti 1a, Reykjavík 517+6767 | www.islenskibarinn.is

KAFFITÁR A chain of cafés and espresso bars with over 30 years of experience in serving and roasting high-quality coffee. They operate cafés in 8 locations in Iceland, promising a highly knowledgeable staff and a great cup of coffee procured in a responsible and fair way. Bankastræti 8, Reykjavik 420-2700 www.kaffitar.is/en

FOOD & DRINK

THE STEAK HOUSE

Perlan, Reykjavik 562-0200 | www.perlan.is

KJALLARINN KITCHEN BAR „The Cellar“ a new restaurant in one of the cities oldest houses. The menu is split up by the two main methods of cooking, a coal oven and a French planche. Master chef Eyjólfur Gestur serves up exciting feasts from both sea and land as well as great parings of food and cocktails. Aðalstræti 2, Reykjavik 517 7373

FOOD & DRINK

SJÁVARBARINN

Sjávarbarinn’s main feature is an all-you-can-eat buffet that has received raving reviews and it also offers an à la carte menu at a very competitive price. Join the locals for lunch in a friendly and cheerful atmosphere or enjoy dinner when the chef spruces things up. Grandagarður 9, Reykjavik 517-3131 www.sjavarbarinn.is

KOPAR

Kopar is a restaurant by the old harbour in Reykjavik which has an emphasis on adventure and experience in a brasserie setting. Their menu is composed of various locally sourced ingredients from sea and land, and aims to give you a taste of Iceland in a single evening.

Find more recommendations on whatson.is

Geirsgata 3, Reykjavik 567-2700 www.koparrestaurant.is

FLJÓTT OG GOTT

One of Reykjavik’s iconic restaurants, located in the main bus terminal, BSÍ. Here you can have the coveted “Sheep’s Head” as well as all the traditional Icelandic food, which is a must-try for all adventurous travellers! Vatnsmýrarvegur 10, Reykjavik 552-1288 | www.fljottoggott.is

MAR - SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

A restaurant in prime location in Reykjavík‘s old harbour. The menu is inspired by South-American and southern-European cuisine and the restaurant designed to deliver fresh and uplifting dining experience, unique to the harbour area. MAR is an interesting choice for individuals and groups alike.

AALTO BISTRO

A unique restaurant and café, run by the award-winning chef, Sveinn Kjartansson. AALTO puts an emphasis on Scandinavian food, inspired by European cuisine. Located in the Nordic House, designed by the acclaimed Finnish architect, Alvar Aalto, this bistro is a hidden gem.

Geirsgata 9, Reykjavik 519-5050 | www.marrestaurant.is

The Nordic House, Sturlugata 5, Reykjavik 551-0200 | www.aalto.is

GRILLHÚSIÐ

73 RESTAURANT

Tryggvagata 20, Reykjavik 527-5000 www.grillhusid.is

Laugavegur 73, Reykjavik 555 7373 www.73.is

FISH COMPANY

KOLABRAUTIN

Vesturgata 2a, Reykjavik 552-5300 | www.fiskfelagid.is

Harpa, Reykjavik 519-9700 | www.kolabrautin.is

A fun restaurant, with the look and feel of an American Diner. Reasonably priced, offering delicious food and a very good service, you‘ll definitely get great value for your money here. They put a special emphasis on using only high quality ingredients, making for a terrific meal.

Quality, fusion and fun are the Fish Company’s main characteristics. The interior is stylish and the quirky tableware fits in wonderfully. The menu is a world of adventures from starters to deserts. It’s designed to take you on a seafood journey and not only a journey of the Icelandic culinary waters but a trip around the world.

Offering a great selection of Icelandic brews and one of the most Epic Burgers this country has ever seen (300gr!), 73, a family-owned and operated restaurant is the place to go for those seeking great food at good prices. Take note that the outdoor seating area is a special treat!

Harpa is not only home to the Icelandic Opera and the Orchestra, it is also the location of one of Reykjavik‘s newest fine restaurants. The kitchen is in the middle of the room, where the fiery furnace gives the dinner guests a warm welcome. An ideal choice for people who appreciate fine cuisine combined with unique architecture and elegant atmosphere.

Experience real Icelandic cuisine

Bankastræti 2, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 551 4430 info@laekjarbrekka.is www.laekjarbrekka.is

Let’s be friends!

/laekjarbrekka

vurl.is/i

Culinary underground movement — Literally The newest addition to the restaurant flora of the capital is Kjallarinn - Kitchen Bar

Kjallarinn simply means „The Cellar“ a fitting name since Kjallarinn is literally underground. The stylish yet warm surrounding is the home of some exciting innovations in both cooking as well as cocktails, which are the inventions of master chef Eyjólfur Gestur in collaboration with the bartenders. The menu is broken up by method of cooking, on one hand the coal oven and on the other a French Planche. On the menu you can find various fish, meat and fowl and of course some delicious cocktails, should you be so inclined. Enjoy!

Aðal stræt i 2 101 Reykjavík Tel : 517 7373 kjallarinn@kjallarinn.is

GENERAL TIPS AND ADVICE Want to know the population of Iceland? Who‘s the president? Why there are so many beautiful women in Iceland? Why people live so far north in the cold? When is the best time to visit? We have all these answers and plenty more. We strive to have the answer to everything you might possibly want to know about Iceland, Reykjavik, Icelanders, travelling to Iceland and everything related (or unrelated) you might be seeking. If you can‘t find your answer here – just visit us on Laugavegur 4 in Reykjavik, or drop us an email on whatson@whatson.is – ask us on facebook, twitter, instagram or any other media you can imagine and we‘ll do our best to answer promptly! YOU HAVE ANY GOOD IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS FOR ME? JUST IN CASE SOMETHING UNEXPECTED HAPPENS? 112 – For every emergency you can imagine. Including if you get beat up (that’ll only happen if you’re a complete asshole by the way, we’re not a violent people. The Viking blood has been diluted over the years and with it the rage has receded) 5885522 – Every Icelander knows this number. It’s for one of the taxi stations. We won’t judge if it’s a better taxi station than the next one – but it has a catchy phone number. 58-12345 – Domino’s. What’s better than a juicy Domino’s pizza after a hard day of exploring Reykjavik? 118 – This is the phonebook and allegedly they answer all sorts of questions you might have. You’ll pay heftily for this service though.

severely injured yourself in your own home country. Apart from possibly changing the phone number you’d call – what would be your action plan? Go ahead and execute that plan – it’s likely that all the steps will align perfectly with Icelandic reality. But again. 112! That’s the number to remember. I JUST SO HAPPEN TO HAVE THIS LETTER HERE I FORGOT TO POST… CAN I DO THAT IN ICELAND? Well yes you can. There are 5 post offices scattered through Reykjavik. As well you can use the post boxes. Both the office and the boxes will be more or less red. The Icelandic word for post is póstur, so you really shouldn’t have any problems finding the correct thing. If that fails, you might want to consider joining the rest of us here in the modern day, using e-mail.

HOW CAN I CALL ICELAND? CAN PEOPLE CALL ME WHILE HERE? Your standard issue mobile phone is most likely going to work just fine in Iceland. Nowadays phones just…take care of all that complicated stuff themselves. If you really want to get down and dirty, the country code is +354 and the phone numbers have 7 digits. IS IT SAFE FOR ME TO DRIVE IN ICELAND? Driving should be quite safe. We drive on the right side and the speed limit is 90km/h. One major point to keep in mind though, is that the weather changes ridiculously fast and the driving conditions can get seriously disgusting, slippery, snowy and whatever. Drive according to situation always!

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I JUST SEVERELY INJURED MYSELF. WHAT SHOULD I DO? Hmm… You should almost certainly start by calling 1-1-2. That’s the emergency phone number in Iceland, one you should generally use in all sorts of life threatening perils. After that you should judge the nature of the injury. Honestly though – Imagine you just

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

UNDERSTANDABLE CONCERNS YOUR LANGUAGE DOESN‘T MAKE SENSE, ARE YOU REALLY SPEAKING REAL WORDS? No, this is just an elaborate scheme we put in action whenever there’s a foreigner around. In reality our language is Spanish, because we used to do a lot of business with the Spanish some hundreds of years ago. We sold them salted fish in bulk, in exchange for red wine. That was a great deal… Okay, in reality. Yeah…Icelandic is a real language, spoken by some 300.000 Icelanders. It’s related to the other Scandinavian languages, Swedish, Danish and Norwegian, though it doesn’t really sound similar. WHY ARE THERE SO MANY BEAUTIFUL WOMEN IN ICELAND? This is not coming from us, but according to some people, it‘s because, back in the days, the Vikings went over to England and stole all the beautiful women from them, which resulted in Iceland being a disproportionally beautiful nation, as opposed to the English… This is not something we honestly believe though – the official story is Lýsi, high quality fish and a biased, yet favourable, general opinion on beauty standards. DOES EVERYONE SPEAK ENGLISH IN ICELAND? Yes. And most of us know some pretty difficult words as well!

LIFE IN THE NORTH CAN BE A BIT SNOWY AND DARK

HOW BIG IS YOUR COUNTRY? Size really doesn‘t matter, so we‘re not too worried about that…But, we‘re talking 103,000 high-quality km²‘s (40,000 sq mi). Iceland is actually the worlds 18th largest island, which isn‘t really that impressive. WHAT’S THE POPULATION OF ICELAND? Roughly 320.000. That’s thousand, not millions. Yes – we have about the same amount of people as Santa Ana or Riverside California. Or one tenth of Berlin (Germany) or Madrid (Spain) if that scale makes more sense. Less than Bilbao (Spain), Cardiff (UK) and Nice (France). More than Utrecht (Netherlands), Bari (Italy) and the renowned town of Wirral (UK). Stop making fun of us. We’re blond, tall and strong. Who cares we’re just a handful. We’re statistically good at everything.

WHY DO PEOPLE LIVE SO FAR NORTH IN THE COLD? Meh … It’s a mixture of reasons really. Firstly – we were born here, so we’re just used to it and don’t know anything else Secondly – we have some seriously warm clothes up here, so we’re not that cold all the time. Thirdly – Iceland is packed with steaming water pouring from the ground here and there, so our houses are warm all the time. Now on top of that – Iceland is BEAUTIFUL! It’s like…jawsto-the-ground stunning at times. We have Aurora borealis, waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, volcanoes and a multitude of other super cool awesome amazing stuff. That alone makes living here a dream.

CHECK OUT MORE ANSWERS TO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ONLINE ON WHATSON.IS/FAQ 80

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