Humarhusid

The building at Amtmannsstígur 1 has been standing since 1838, which makes it one of the oldest structures in central Reykjavik. For much of its recent history, it has been home to Humarhusid -- The Lobster House -- a restaurant that has become virtually synonymous with Icelandic langoustine dining. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning regular, a meal here connects you with both the building's history and Iceland's extraordinary seafood tradition.

The Langoustine

Let us be clear about terminology. When Icelanders say "lobster," they almost always mean langoustine -- the sweet, delicate crustacean hauled from the cold waters off Iceland's south coast. Humarhusid has made this creature its mission, and the kitchen prepares it with a reverence that borders on obsessive.

The langoustine soup is the signature dish: a rich, creamy bowl that balances the natural sweetness of the shellfish with a subtle heat. It is the dish that most visitors order first, and most visitors order again. Beyond the soup, the menu offers grilled langoustine tails, langoustine in garlic butter, and more elaborate preparations that showcase the ingredient's versatility.

The rest of the menu does not disappoint either. Fresh Icelandic fish, lamb, and seasonal vegetables fill out the card, all prepared with the same attention to quality that defines the langoustine dishes.

The Setting

The building itself is part of the experience. Low ceilings, thick walls, and the kind of atmospheric lighting that makes every dinner feel like an occasion. The rooms are intimate without being cramped, and the historical character of the structure -- creaking floorboards, uneven doorways, the sense of centuries layered upon centuries -- adds a dimension that purpose-built restaurants cannot replicate.

Wine and Service

The wine list is well-curated, with selections that complement the seafood-heavy menu without overwhelming it. Staff are knowledgeable and attentive, striking the right balance between formality and warmth. Service moves at a civilised pace -- this is not a place to rush.

Practical Considerations

Humarhusid is not cheap. This is fine dining with prices to match, and a full evening with wine can represent a significant outlay. But for a special-occasion meal built around one of Iceland's finest ingredients in one of Reykjavik's most atmospheric buildings, many diners find it money well spent.

Book ahead. The restaurant's reputation means tables fill up, particularly during summer. The location on Amtmannsstígur is central and easy to reach on foot from anywhere in the city.