Cozy neighborhood restaurant in a residential part of Reykjavik known for its strong relationship with local farmers and fishermen. The menu changes weekly based on available seasonal ingredients, creating an ever-fresh dining experience. Intimate, unpretentious, and one of the most exciting tables in the city.
Forsæla Matarbar is a cozy neighborhood restaurant in a residential part of Reykjavík on Hávallagata, built on a strong relationship with local farmers and fishermen that shapes its weekly changing menu. Dishes such as a weekly fish special with foraged greens and slow-braised Icelandic lamb cheeks reflect a hyper-seasonal approach to Icelandic cooking rather than a fixed menu of standards. The atmosphere is intimate and unpretentious despite the ambitious cooking, with a small dining room that feels more like a local secret than a destination restaurant, though it has earned a reputation as one of the most exciting tables in the city. Given its small size and weekly-changing menu, reservations are required well in advance, particularly for weekend dinners.
| Price | $$$ |
|---|---|
| Hours | Tuesday-Saturday 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM |
| Reservations | Required |
| Address | Hávallagata 10, 101 Reykjavík |
Signature dishes
- Weekly fish special with foraged greens — ISK 5,600 (~$40)
- Slow-braised Icelandic lamb cheeks — ISK 6,200 (~$45)
- Skyr panna cotta with crowberries — ISK 2,200 (~$16)
Good to know
- Known for
- Hyper-seasonal farm-to-table Icelandic cooking
Weather through the year in Iceland
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Iceland.
Location
Hávallagata 10, 101 Reykjavík
64.1451, -21.9454 View on map
Highlights
- Hyper-seasonal, farm-to-table Icelandic cooking
- Weekly changing menu based on local farmers and fishermen
- Intimate, unpretentious neighborhood setting
- Regarded as one of Reykjavík's most exciting tables
Tips for visiting
- Reserve well in advance, particularly for weekend dinners
- Ask about the current weekly menu, since dishes change often
- Expect an intimate, low-key room despite the ambitious cooking
Accessibility
The restaurant has step-free access from Hávallagata with seating suitable for wheelchair users.
Frequently asked questions
Does Forsæla Matarbar have a fixed menu?
No, the menu changes weekly based on seasonal availability from local farmers and fishermen.
Is Forsæla Matarbar formal?
No, it has an intimate, unpretentious neighborhood atmosphere despite its ambitious cooking.
Should reservations be made?
Yes, well in advance, particularly for weekend dinners.