Grillhusid

Grillhusid occupies a specific niche on Laugavegur — it is the place you go when you want a proper, no-nonsense burger or steak without the fine dining price tag or the tourist trap disappointment. Modelled on the American diner concept, it delivers exactly what that description implies.

The Food

The burgers are the main event, and they are good. Juicy, well-seasoned, and served with the kind of generous portions that justify the walk back to your hotel. The steaks are a step up in price but deliver solid quality — properly cooked, decently sized, and satisfying in a straightforward way.

The lunch specials deserve particular mention. Lower prices combined with free soup make this one of the smarter midday options on Laugavegur, a street where tourist pricing can be brutal. The soup changes daily and is always warming and well-made — a small touch that elevates the whole experience.

The Space

The interior leans into the American diner aesthetic — booths, neon accents, and a casual atmosphere that says "relax, this is not a place that takes itself too seriously." It works. Families fit comfortably, solo diners do not feel awkward, and groups can spread out without feeling cramped.

Where It Fits

Grillhusid is not competing with Reykjavik's new Nordic restaurants or its seafood fine dining establishments. It is competing with every other mid-range casual spot on Laugavegur, and in that category, it performs well. The food is consistent, the prices are fair (for Iceland), and the free lunch soup is a small but meaningful gesture of goodwill.

Practical Tips

Come for lunch to get the best value. Walk-ins are fine — reservations are not typically necessary. If the Laugavegur location is full, try the Sprengisandur branch for the same menu with fewer crowds.