Burro Tapas & Steaks
A South American-inspired tapas and steak restaurant in the heart of Reykjavik, offering sharing plates and quality cuts in a warm, buzzy atmosphere.
Burro brings something different to Reykjavik's dining scene: a South American-inflected tapas and steak restaurant that manages to feel both lively and intimate. Sitting at the intersection of Austurstraeti and the harbour area, it occupies a sweet spot between casual sharing plates and a proper steak dinner, and handles both ends of that spectrum well.
The Food
The tapas are the best way to start. Small plates arrive with South American and Peruvian accents -- ceviche, empanadas, grilled vegetables, and flavour combinations that bring welcome warmth to a cold Reykjavik evening. The portions are sized for sharing, and ordering several to split across the table is the way to go.
The steaks are where Burro shifts gear. Quality cuts, properly aged and competently grilled, served with sauces and sides that complement rather than overwhelm. The meat is good, the cooking is precise, and the portions are generous by tapas-restaurant standards. If you have been eating fish all week and want red meat, Burro delivers.
The tasting menu is worth considering if you want the kitchen to make the decisions for you. It offers a curated journey through the menu's highlights and is a good way to discover dishes you might not have ordered individually.
The Setting
The interior is warm and inviting -- exposed brick, low lighting, and an open kitchen that adds energy to the room. On a busy evening, the atmosphere is convivial without being overwhelming. The bar area is comfortable for pre-dinner drinks, and the cocktail list is short but well-executed.
The location on Veltusund places you in the centre of things, with Austurstraeti's bars and shops in one direction and the harbour in the other.
Practical Tips
Book ahead for dinner, especially at weekends. The tapas plates work well for a lighter, more affordable meal if you are watching your budget. For the full experience, combine tapas starters with a steak main and a glass of something South American from the wine list. The kitchen is accommodating to dietary requirements, with vegetarian and vegan options clearly identified on the menu.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does Burro serve?
- Tapas-style sharing plates and quality steaks with South American and Peruvian influences. The menu is designed for sharing, with smaller dishes alongside larger steak options.
- How much does a meal cost?
- Tapas plates ISK 1,800-3,500, steaks ISK 5,000-9,000. For a full meal with drinks, expect to spend ISK 8,000-15,000 per person (approximately 55-103 EUR).
- Is Burro good for vegetarians?
- Yes. The tapas menu includes clearly marked vegetarian and vegan options, which is not always the case in Reykjavik.
- Do I need a reservation?
- Recommended, especially for Friday and Saturday evenings. The restaurant is centrally located and popular.
- Where is Burro?
- At Veltusund 1, a small street connecting Austurstraeti and Hafnarstraeti in the very centre of Reykjavik.
- What is the tasting menu like?
- A curated selection of the kitchen's best dishes, served in multiple courses. It is a good option if you want to try a range of flavours without ordering the entire menu.
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