Fish Festival
A cheerful seafood restaurant near the Old Harbour celebrating Iceland's fishing heritage with fresh, simply prepared fish dishes at honest prices.
Iceland is a nation built on fish, and while Reykjavik's fine dining scene has embraced ever more elaborate preparations, there is much to be said for a restaurant that simply serves excellent fish without unnecessary fuss. Fish Festival does precisely that, and it does it well.
The Approach
The philosophy here is straightforward: source the best fish available, prepare it with care, and serve it in an environment where people can relax and enjoy it. There are no deconstructed anything, no foams, no microgreens arranged with tweezers. Just fish, cooked properly, on a plate.
The Menu
The fish and chips is the most popular order, and deservedly so. The fish -- typically haddock or cod -- arrives in a crisp, golden batter with a generous heap of chips. It is simple, satisfying, and a reminder that the best things in cooking are often the least complicated.
For those who want something lighter, the grilled fish of the day is a strong option. The kitchen lets the quality of the fish do the talking, with minimal seasoning and careful cooking that preserves the delicate texture. The fish soup, creamy and packed with chunks of fish, is a warming starter or a meal in itself.
Arctic char, when available, is worth ordering. This coldwater fish has a flavour that sits somewhere between salmon and trout, and it is particularly well suited to simple grilling.
The Setting
Fish Festival occupies a space near the Old Harbour that suits its character perfectly. The interior is bright, casual, and unpretentious -- the kind of place where you feel comfortable in hiking boots or flip-flops. It is not a date-night restaurant, but it is an excellent lunch spot or a relaxed dinner option.
Why It Works
In a city with dozens of seafood restaurants ranging from budget to extravagant, Fish Festival occupies a sweet spot: better quality than the tourist-trap operations, more affordable than the fine dining options, and more welcoming than either. If you want to eat good fish in Reykjavik without the performance of a formal restaurant, this is your place.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Fish Festival?
- Fish Festival is a casual seafood restaurant in Reykjavik that focuses on fresh Icelandic fish served in simple, flavourful preparations. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly.
- What fish dishes are available?
- The menu typically includes fish and chips, grilled fish of the day, fish soup, and various preparations of cod, haddock, and arctic char. The fish is fresh and locally sourced.
- Is Fish Festival expensive?
- Prices are moderate for Reykjavik. Fish and chips costs around ISK 2,500-3,000, and a main course of grilled fish is ISK 3,500-4,500. It represents good value for fresh seafood.
- Where is Fish Festival?
- The restaurant is on Tryggvagata, near the Old Harbour area of Reykjavik. It is within easy walking distance of the harbour, the Grandi area, and downtown.
- Is Fish Festival good for families?
- Yes, the casual atmosphere and simple menu make it very family-friendly. Children tend to enjoy the fish and chips.
- Does Fish Festival serve anything besides fish?
- The menu is primarily fish-focused, though some meat options and vegetarian dishes are usually available. Fish is the clear strength and the reason to visit.
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