Dining

Fun fact: Iceland derives its name from our love of ice cream

Best ice cream

Plates to share

Natural Wines Craft Cocktails

Skúbb

Laugarásvegur 1

When asked for their top choice for best ice cream, panels old and current have been unanimous in their love for Skúbb’s creamy treats. “I’m in love with their espresso — nice, clean flavours,” said one. Is it simply the deliciousness of their ice creams, or the straightforward simplicity of flavours, or their commitment to values that shines through that have made them a consistent winner? It’s all of the above and consistency. Skúbb’s scoops haven’t succumbed to cutting corners in the run up to popularity. They use BioBu’s milk for all their dairy-based scoops, and whatever on offer is bound to knock your socks off. The sorbets are bursts of pure fruit and the vegan flavours give stiff competition to their dairy-based brethren. Skúbb, we love you.

Runners-up

Gæta Gelato

Aðalstræti 6

From the moment they opened their doors, Gæta quickly became the name on everyone’s lips for authentic Italian gelato. Our astute panel did note that their gelato has in recent times become sweeter than it used to be. But that shouldn’t deter one from the excellent gelato here. Nut forward flavours rule the roost, although store attendants do confess that the local palate skews sweet (perhaps that is what they are addressing?) with their soft spot for salted caramel and Oreo cookie flavours. Seasonal flavours are aplenty at Gæta, so when mango season strikes, that is the one to try. Recently they’ve taken to offering cannoli and twee krikri gelato cones as well.

Fish Company

Vesturgata 2a

For over a decade now, Fiskfélagið has been delighting diners with their freshoff-the-boat, bonkers good seafood. Whether it is the shrimp-langoustine salad that has gained cult status amongst lunch goers, or their elegant sushi, or the achingly good cod and ling prepared in a multitude of ways, Fiskfélagið always delivers. “I can’t remember ever having a bad meal there,” echoed many of our panellists. And with good reason, too. This restaurant seems to attract the very best talent and it has managed to stand tall in a sea of

Brút

Pósthússtræti 2

In their small yet mighty menu, Brút showcases the best seafood that Iceland has to offer. Just the sheer variety — from char to cod, monkfish to haddock, scallops to sea snails — is a celebration of the bounty of the sea. No matter what you choose, each dish is carefully prepared in a thoughtful fashion that effortlessly converts even the stoic seafood reluctant. Even skate haters turn into skate lovers — and if that isn’t high praise, then it's time you go see what the fuss is about for yourself. The award-winning wine list

Ísbúð Vesturbæjar

Hagamel 67

Chocolate dipper, blitzer of candy streaked bragðarefur and the one-stop shop for all the essentials needed for a good ol’ ísbíltur is local haunt, and neighbourhood jaunt Ísbúð Vesturbæjar. If you really want a sneak peek into the Icelandic psyche, the ice cream shop is where it's at — a childhood treat of simple vanilla soft serve, swirled into that papery cone becomes the vehicle for a veritable spread of dippings and toppings. For a true taste of the local, hit up this institution.

Previous Winners

2022: Skúbb

2021: Skúbb

2020: Skúbb

Fiskmarkaðurinn

Aðalstræti 12

Fiskmarkaðurinn may have undergone several changes to their menu over the years, but what remains steadfast is the presence of the lightly salted cod with apples and their robata grilled salmon. The portions here aren’t dainty like their sushi. Instead, these are hearty cuts of high quality fish that truly reflect local seafaring traditions.

Previous Winners

2022: Fiskfélagið

2021: Fiskfélagið

2020: Fiskfélagið