Himalayan Spice

Laugavegur has no shortage of restaurants competing for your attention, but Himalayan Spice stands out by offering something that most of the street does not: genuinely well-spiced food from the Indian subcontinent. This Nepalese and Indian restaurant has built a loyal following among locals and visitors who have discovered that a properly made curry is one of the best meals you can eat in Reykjavik.

The Food

The menu spans both Nepalese and Indian culinary traditions, and does justice to both. Curries form the backbone — chicken tikka masala, lamb rogan josh, vegetable jalfrezi — all prepared with spice blends that have depth and character. The tandoori oven produces properly charred meats with the distinctive smoky flavour that no other cooking method can replicate. Naan breads are fresh and pillowy, and the rice is consistently well-prepared.

The Nepalese element distinguishes Himalayan Spice from Reykjavik's other Indian restaurants. Momos — steamed or fried dumplings filled with seasoned meat or vegetables — are the signature dish and the one you should not skip. Good momos are addictive, and Himalayan Spice makes very good momos.

The biryani deserves attention: fragrant, well-layered, and generously portioned. It is the kind of dish that rewards ordering if you are eating with a group and want something substantial to share.

The Lunch Buffet

The lunch buffet is where Himalayan Spice delivers its best value. For a fixed price, you get access to a rotating selection of curries, rice, naan, and sides. In a city where lunch can easily cost EUR 25-30 for a single dish, the buffet feels remarkably fair. It is popular with the lunch crowd — office workers, shoppers, and travellers who have done the maths on Reykjavik dining — so arriving early or slightly after the rush is wise.

The Setting

The restaurant occupies a comfortable space on Laugavegur, with decor that nods to Himalayan traditions without overdoing the theme. It is warm, inviting, and slightly more spacious than many restaurants on this stretch. The atmosphere is relaxed and unhurried, which suits the food — Indian and Nepalese meals are best enjoyed without time pressure.

Practical Tips

The lunch buffet is the value play and fills up between 12:00 and 13:00. Evening service offers the full menu and a more relaxed pace. Takeaway is available and practical for hotel meals. The Laugavegur location is central to everything. No reservations are usually needed for lunch, but calling ahead for weekend dinners is sensible. If you are craving spice after days of Icelandic food, Himalayan Spice delivers.