Posthusbarinn
A buzzy food hall and bar housed in Reykjavik's grand former post office building on Posthusstraeti, with multiple vendors serving everything from sushi to burgers.
Reykjavik's food hall trend has transformed several historic buildings into vibrant eating destinations, and Posthusbarinn is one of the most successful examples. Housed in the former post office on Pósthússtræti -- a handsome building that once processed every letter and parcel entering or leaving the country -- it now serves a different kind of delivery: multiple food vendors under one roof, a central bar, and the kind of buzzy atmosphere that makes casual dining genuinely fun.
The Concept
The food hall format is simple and effective. Multiple independent food vendors set up their kitchens around a shared seating area, and diners order from whichever stall appeals, mixing and matching cuisines as they please. A central bar ties everything together, serving cocktails, craft beer, and wine that complement whatever food you have chosen.
This format works particularly well for groups with different tastes. One person wants sushi, another wants a burger, a third wants Icelandic fish -- everyone can have exactly what they want and sit at the same table.
The Food
The vendor lineup changes and evolves, which keeps things interesting for repeat visitors. On any given visit you might find stalls serving Icelandic seafood, Asian cuisine, pizza, burgers, and whatever other concept has caught the operators' attention. Quality varies slightly between vendors, as it does in any food hall, but the overall standard is good.
The seafood stalls tend to be the strongest performers, which makes sense given the location. Fresh Icelandic fish, langoustine, and the ever-popular fish and chips are reliably excellent.
The Building
The former post office is a handsome structure, and the conversion has preserved its architectural character while opening up the interior into a spacious, light-filled hall. High ceilings, original details, and the grandeur of a building that once served a national function give the space a gravitas that purpose-built food halls cannot match.
The Bar
The central bar area deserves mention. Well-stocked and competently staffed, it transforms the food hall from a lunchtime eating destination into an evening social venue. On Friday and Saturday nights, the balance shifts from food to drinks, and Posthusbarinn becomes one of the more enjoyable spots for a drink in the city centre.
Practical Notes
Pósthússtræti 5 is in the absolute centre of Reykjavik, steps from the parliament and the main square. Open daily, with extended hours on weekends. No reservations needed. The communal seating means you may share a table during busy periods, which is part of the charm.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Posthusbarinn?
- Posthusbarinn (Posthus Food Hall & Bar) is a food hall and bar located in the historic former post office building on Pósthússtræti. Multiple food vendors operate under one roof, alongside a central bar.
- What kind of food is available?
- The food hall features multiple vendors offering diverse cuisines -- you might find Icelandic seafood, sushi, burgers, pizza, and Asian food all under the same roof. The lineup may change over time.
- Is Posthusbarinn expensive?
- Prices vary by vendor, but overall the food hall offers moderate pricing for central Reykjavik. Most dishes cost ISK 2,000-4,000.
- Where is Posthusbarinn?
- Posthusbarinn is at Pósthússtræti 5, in the heart of central Reykjavik, a short walk from Austurvöllur square and the parliament building.
- Is Posthusbarinn good for groups?
- Excellent for groups. The food-hall format means everyone can order from different vendors and eat together, solving the eternal problem of groups with different food preferences.
- Does Posthusbarinn have a bar?
- Yes, a central bar serves cocktails, craft beer, and wine. On Friday and Saturday evenings the space takes on a livelier, more bar-oriented atmosphere.
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