Krost

Hlemmur Matholl, the food hall at the eastern end of Laugavegur, is home to a rotating cast of food stalls and bars. Krost is among the most established and consistent of the lot -- a grill and wine bar that takes seasonal Icelandic ingredients and treats them with more care than you might expect from a food hall setting.

The Food

Krost describes itself as a grill restaurant, and the charcoal does much of the talking. Fish and meat are cooked over flame with a confidence that comes from good ingredients and a kitchen that knows when to stop fussing. The menu shifts with the seasons, which means the lamb you eat in autumn will be different from the fish that dominates in spring. This is exactly as it should be.

The starters and bar snacks are strong -- good for a lighter meal or an accompaniment to wine. The main courses are satisfying without being enormous, reflecting a kitchen that prioritises quality over quantity.

The Wine

The wine list is better than it needs to be. In a food hall, you might expect a few perfunctory options by the glass. Krost goes further, with a curated selection that includes natural wines, old-world classics, and a few surprises. The staff are knowledgeable and happy to make recommendations. It is the kind of wine list that rewards curiosity.

The Setting

The food hall setting means you are surrounded by the buzz of other vendors and customers. This can be energising or distracting depending on your preference. Krost's seating area has enough separation to feel distinct from the general food hall chaos, but you are not in a private restaurant. The atmosphere is casual, sociable, and slightly bohemian -- which suits the eastern end of Laugavegur perfectly.

Practical Tips

Thursday through Saturday evenings are the busiest. For a quieter experience, come for lunch or early dinner. The food hall environment means you can combine a meal at Krost with drinks or dessert from another vendor. If you want a more traditional restaurant experience, Krost might feel too informal. If you appreciate good food in a lively, democratic setting, it is one of the best options in the area.