Primo Ristorante
A well-established Italian restaurant in downtown Reykjavik serving classic pasta, meat, and fish dishes in a warm, intimate setting.
Italian restaurants in Reykjavik face a peculiar challenge — they need to convince diners to choose pasta over the seafood and lamb that Iceland does so well naturally. Primo Ristorante, tucked into a cozy space just off Laugavegur, makes a reasonable case for it.
The Food
Primo does classic Italian with competence rather than brilliance. The pasta dishes are the strongest part of the menu — properly cooked, well-sauced, and satisfying in the way that good Italian food should be. The salmon fillet and calzone have both drawn praise from regulars, and the complimentary bread and olive oil that open every meal set a welcoming tone.
Where it occasionally falters is consistency. Some visits deliver genuinely good food; others can feel slightly uninspired. The kitchen seems to perform best on the simpler dishes — a well-executed carbonara or a clean seafood pasta — rather than the more ambitious plates.
The Atmosphere
This is where Primo earns its keep. The interior is warm, intimate, and genuinely romantic in a way that few Reykjavik restaurants manage. Candlelight, dark wood, and close-set tables create an atmosphere that suits date nights and special occasions. It is a place where conversation flows easily and the evening feels unhurried.
The Wine
The wine list leans Italian, as it should, with a decent selection across price points. Nothing extraordinary, but enough range to find something that pairs well with your meal.
Practical Tips
Book ahead for weekend evenings. Weekday lunches are quieter and offer better value. Sunday opening is dinner-only from 17:00, so plan accordingly. The location just off Laugavegur makes it easy to combine with a pre-dinner walk through downtown.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What kind of food does Primo Ristorante serve?
- Classic Italian — pasta dishes, risotto, meat and fish courses, appetizers, and desserts. Complimentary bread and olive oil start every meal.
- How much does dinner at Primo cost?
- Main courses ISK 3,500-6,500 (EUR 24-45). A three-course dinner with wine will run around ISK 12,000-15,000 per person.
- Should I make a reservation?
- Recommended, especially for Friday and Saturday evenings. Weekday lunches are usually fine without one.
- Is Primo good for a date night?
- Yes. The intimate atmosphere, candlelit tables, and Italian menu make it one of the more romantic dining options in downtown Reykjavik.
- Where is Primo Ristorante located?
- At Thingholtsstraeti 1, just off Laugavegur in the heart of downtown Reykjavik.
- Does Primo serve pizza?
- The menu has evolved over the years and is now more focused on pasta, meat, and fish dishes rather than pizza. Check their current menu on primo.is for the latest offerings.
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