Le Bistro
A genuine family-run French bistro on the corner of Laugavegur and Bergstadastraeti, Le Bistro serves classic French dishes — fondue, duck, escargot — alongside breakfast and brunch with Icelandic twists.
Le Bistro occupies a prime corner on Laugavegur, right where Reykjavik's main shopping street meets Bergstadastraeti. It is a small, family-run French bistro that has been quietly serving some of the most consistent food in the city for years.
The French Connection
The menu reads like a greatest hits of French bistro cooking. Escargot in garlic butter. Duck confit with a proper crispy skin. French onion soup under a blanket of melted gruyere. Quiche done right. Pate that tastes like it was made by someone who actually learned in France. These are not dishes that try to reinvent anything — they are classic preparations executed with skill and respect for tradition.
The fondue and raclette deserve special mention. In a city where winter lasts approximately forever, melted cheese as a meal concept makes profound sense. The cheese fondue is rich, properly seasoned, and served with good bread and accompaniments. Sharing a fondue pot at Le Bistro on a dark January evening is one of Reykjavik's more civilised pleasures.
Breakfast and Brunch
Le Bistro opens early by Reykjavik restaurant standards, with breakfast from 09:00. The French approach to morning food — good bread, butter, jam, eggs done well — translates nicely to Iceland. The brunch menu extends to 14:00 (16:00 on weekends) and includes heartier options.
The Space
The restaurant is small, which contributes to its charm. The interior has a genuine bistro feel — nothing forced or overly decorated, just warm lighting, simple furnishings, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to sit and talk over wine. The corner location provides good people-watching opportunities on the Laugavegur side.
The Wine
The wine list is well-chosen and leans French, as you would expect. By the glass options are decent, and the markup is less aggressive than at some downtown competitors. A glass of Cotes du Rhone with your duck confit is the right call.
Practical Notes
Reservations recommended for dinner. Breakfast and brunch are generally walk-in friendly. The location could not be more central. Cash and cards accepted. If you are tired of seafood and lamb and craving something from the Continent, Le Bistro delivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What kind of food does Le Bistro serve?
- Classic French bistro fare — duck confit, escargot, quiche, fondue, raclette, and French onion soup. The menu bridges traditional French cooking with Icelandic ingredients.
- Does Le Bistro serve breakfast?
- Yes. Breakfast is served daily from 09:00 to 11:30, and brunch is available from 09:00 to 14:00 (until 16:00 on weekends).
- How expensive is Le Bistro?
- Main courses ISK 3,500-6,000. Moderate for Reykjavik. The fondue and raclette are designed for sharing, which helps with value.
- Do they have fondue?
- Yes. Cheese fondue and raclette are signature offerings and popular choices, especially in winter.
- Do I need a reservation?
- Recommended for dinner, especially on weekends. For breakfast and brunch, walk-ins are usually fine.
- Where exactly is Le Bistro?
- On the corner of Laugavegur and Bergstadastraeti, right at the western end of the main shopping street. Impossible to miss.
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