Iceland: A Rising Star in Nordic Gastronomy / Publisher LLM Reporters

Iceland is quickly becoming one of the world’s most intriguing culinary destinations.

The destination is often known for its dramatic waterfalls, hot springs and Northern Lights, but recently, Iceland has emerged as a serious player on the global food stage. From foraged herbs and fresh seafood to fermented delicacies and Michelin-starred restaurants, Iceland offers a unique gastronomic adventure. Visitors are invited to explore Iceland’s gastronomic highlights through curated tours, tastings and festivals.

The success of Iceland’s culinary scene is rooted in its rich supply of renewable natural resources: clean spring water, geothermal heat and electricity generated from hydro and geothermal power.

Icelanders have mastered the art of year-round greenhouse and vertical farming, effectively extending growing seasons and maximising crop yields.

This unique approach allows chefs across the nation to consistently incorporate a supply of fresh, high-quality, locally grown vegetables and herbs into their menus, ensuring that top-tier ingredients are available regardless of the season.

Iceland’s Michelin-starred culinary innovators

Iceland’s food scene is shaped by talented chefs and restaurants that celebrate the country’s unique ingredients and innovative culinary style.

Starting with Dill, Iceland’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, led by chef Gunnar Karl Gíslason, who draws inspiration from the island’s natural landscape and traditional flavours. These pioneers are slowly redefining Nordic cuisine, all whilst sharing Iceland’s heritage and establishing the country as a desirable destination for food lovers.

Blue Lagoon’s acclaimed Icelandic restaurant, Moss, has recently retained the Michelin star it was first awarded in 2023. Image credit: Moss

Dill – Michelin star

A true pioneer in the New Nordic culinary movement, Dill was the first Icelandic restaurant to receive a Michelin star. Dill’s set menu is a journey through Iceland’s seasonal offerings, led by founding chef Gunnar Karl Gíslasson.

The restaurant continues to impress with its creative approach to Icelandic ingredients, and its cosy, intimate space welcomes diners to experience dishes bursting with flavours that tell tales of the rugged Icelandic landscape.

Moss – Michelin star

Blue Lagoon’s acclaimed Icelandic restaurant, Moss, has recently retained the Michelin star it was first awarded in 2023, where the executive chef, Aggi Sverrisson, serves a frequently changing menu of Asian flavours integrated with seasonal Icelandic ingredients, creating timeless gourmet experiences, such as new world-class menu addition Icelandic caviar from Hið norðlenzka styrjufjélag, the only Icelandic caviar producer.

Occupying the highest point at the Retreat, Moss features sweeping vistas of the otherworldly landscape. Incorporating the shapes, patterns, colours, and textures of the volcanic terrain, the restaurant brings forth a memorable and immersive dining journey.

Guests can travel across the country by way of the culinary masterpieces that emerge from the kitchen. From the mountains to the fjords to the rivers to the oceans, Iceland’s endlessly fresh bounty of nourishment provides the inspiration for the restaurant’s stunning innovations on traditional Icelandic recipes.

Iceland is quickly becoming one of the world’s most intriguing culinary destinations. Image credit: Moss

ÓX – Michelin star

Next stop on this starlit culinary journey is ÓX, a true Reykjavík treasure that has earned not just a coveted Michelin Star, but also the prestigious Michelin Green Star. For the mindful traveller with a taste for authenticity and sustainability, ÓX is a must-visit.

An intimate setting with just a handful of seats, the experience feels more like a dinner party than a restaurant. Each dish is a creative tribute to Iceland’s landscape, crafted from the freshest local and seasonal ingredients. ÓX doesn’t just impress with flavour, its commitment to sustainable practices is what earned it the Green Star, a recognition reserved for restaurants that go the extra mile for the planet.

Matur og Drykkur – Michelin recommended

For those looking to explore Iceland’s diverse dining scene without necessarily opting for a multi-course tasting menu, Michelin Recommended spot Matur Og Drykkur is a must-visit.

Exploring traditional Icelandic cuisine with a modern twist, their philosophy centres around showcasing classic Icelandic dishes reimagined with contemporary techniques and flavours.

TIDES – Michelin recommended

Located within the stylish Reykjavik EDITION hotel, TIDES is led by Iceland’s first Michelin-starred chef, Gunnar Karl Gíslason. The restaurant focuses on modern Icelandic cuisine and uses an open-fire charcoal grill to showcase the pristine quality of local seafood and seasonal ingredients.

The restaurant has a sophisticated yet welcoming, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows which provide a dramatic backdrop for enjoying expertly crafted dishes like Atlantic cod or flame-roasted vegetables, offering a refined taste of the North Atlantic.

Sümac Grill + Drinks – Michelin recommended

Inspired by the bustling food culture of Beirut, this Michelin recommended restaurant blends Icelandic ingredients with Middle Eastern and North African influences. Charcoal-grilled dishes, aromatic flavours and meze-style plates offer a vibrant, communal dining experience.

With its industrial-chic interior and high-energy open kitchen, it offers an exotic and appetising escape in the heart of the Icelandic capital.

Incorporating the shapes, patterns, colours, and textures of the volcanic terrain, Moss brings forth a memorable and immersive dining journey. Image credit: Moss

Iceland’s must-experience 2026 food festivals

Experience Iceland’s diverse culinary calendar in 2026 with these must-visit food festivals. Whether visitors are seeking world-class chefs or simply want to celebrate the very best food, music, poetry and storytelling deeply rooted within the country’s heritage, there is a festival for every type of foodie to indulge in.

Þorrablót: January-February 2026

Þorrablót is a traditional Icelandic midwinter festival with deep roots in the country’s Viking heritage. Held during the month of Þorri (from January to mid-February), the celebration brings people together to honour their ancestors through food, music, poetry and storytelling. Although the festival’s origins trace back to pagan times, Þorrablót has been revived in modern Iceland as a festive way to reconnect with the nation’s cultural past, complete with traditional delicacies and spirited gatherings.

Reykjavik Food and Fun Festival: February 2026

The Food and Fun Festival in Reykjavík is a celebration of culinary creativity that brings together world-class chefs and exceptional local ingredients. Held at various acclaimed restaurants across the city, this festival offers a chance to experience exclusive menus crafted through collaborations between Icelandic chefs and international talent.

Each venue provides a unique atmosphere, while the specially designed menus highlight the very best of Icelandic cuisine.

Reykjavík’s food scene has undergone a delicious transformation in recent years. Image credit: JasperGrom/Bigstock.com

Reykjavík’s coolest spots for foodies

Reykjavík’s food scene has undergone a delicious transformation in recent years. The city blends tradition with innovation, chefs are deeply connected to Iceland’s land and sea, curating dishes using locally sourced lamb, Arctic char and wild herbs.

One of the most exciting developments is the rise of food halls. Hlemmur Mathöll is inspired by the great European food halls and is set in a converted bus terminal, serving up all types of cuisine from Vietnamese, Italian, South and North American delights and of course, traditional Icelandic bites. 

Grandi Mathöll stylish interiors and harbour views serve up seafood, tacos and vegan options. Pósthús Food Hall is a local favourite where global flavours and Icelandic classics come together, these food halls are perfect for groups with eclectic tastes, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

For those craving a more elevated experience, Reykjavík has fine dining spots like Grillmarkaðurinn and Sjávargrillið, where Icelandic ingredients are prepared with creative flair.

Other standouts include TIDES Restaurant at The Reykjavík EDITION Hotel, Apótek with its fusion food approach and Fröken, a casual restaurant in stylish Art Deco-inspired surrounding that showcases modern Northern European cuisine, with a strong emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and high-quality flavours in every dish.

Even quick bites have character in Reykjavík. Why not try a hot dog from the Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, an iconic spot that has been operating since 1937 and has gained international fame. Alternatively, head to Reykjavík Fish for fresh fish and chips, topped with signature “skyronnaise”. Pair any of these quick bites with refreshment from Skúli Craft Bar or Iceland’s craft beer at one of the multiple local breweries and craft bars.