Sjavarbarinn

Akureyri, Iceland's second city, sits at the head of Eyjafjordur -- the country's longest fjord -- and has the kind of compact, walkable town centre that makes exploring on foot a pleasure. Sjavarbarinn on Glerárgata is one of the town's dedicated seafood restaurants, and it does the simple things well: fresh fish from northern waters, prepared honestly, and served in a warm space that feels like a refuge from the elements.

The Food

The fish soup is the dish to start with. Thick, warming, and laden with chunks of fresh fish, it is the kind of bowl that makes sense of North Iceland's climate. On a grey day -- which is most days in Akureyri outside of summer -- it is exactly what you want.

Beyond the soup, the menu follows the catch. Grilled fish of the day arrives simply prepared, letting the quality of the ingredient do the work. The fish and chips uses locally caught cod or haddock in a crisp batter. Seafood platters offer a broader taste of what the northern waters provide.

The kitchen does not complicate things. The fish is fresh, the cooking is competent, and the portions are satisfying. In a town where the best ingredient on your doorstep is the ocean, Sjavarbarinn makes the most of its advantage.

The Setting

The restaurant is comfortable and unpretentious, with the kind of warmth that restaurants in northern climates learn to cultivate out of necessity. The interior is simply decorated, the tables are well-spaced, and the atmosphere is relaxed. It is the sort of place where you can have a quiet lunch or an unhurried dinner without feeling out of place.

Why Akureyri

Most Ring Road travellers pass through Akureyri, and many do not give it enough time. The town has genuine character: a botanical garden at the edge of the Arctic, a lively arts scene, excellent swimming pools, and easy access to Husavik (whale watching), Myvatn (geothermal landscapes), and the Diamond Circle. Spending an extra night here is rarely regretted.

Practical Tips

Book during summer, walk in during winter. The restaurant is a short walk from Akureyri's main street and the harbour. If you are driving the Ring Road, Akureyri is the natural overnight stop in the north, and Sjavarbarinn is a reliable dinner option. Pair it with a morning visit to the botanical garden and an afternoon drive to Godafoss waterfall.