Hlemmur Mathöll
Reykjavik's vibrant food hall offering diverse global and local flavors in a lively, communal setting.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively but manageable crowds
Hlemmur Mathöll
Best Time
Lively but manageable crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Reykjavik's vibrant food hall offering diverse global and local flavors in a lively, communal setting.
"Amazing food hall. If you don’t know what you want or everyone in your party wants something different, this is the place to go."
🎯 Order & Find a Seat
Order first, then snag a table. Your buzzer will let you know when your delicious food is ready! :foodie:
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Fun
There's a playground outside, making it a great spot for families with kids to enjoy a meal. :child:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Potato & Cheese Croquettes
Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside. These croquettes are a must-try, with many visitors dreaming about them.

Blue Mussels
Fresh, flavorful, and highly recommended. A taste of Iceland's coastal bounty that shouldn't be missed.

Fish and Chips
Often hailed as the best ever, this classic dish is a crowd-pleaser with perfectly cooked fish.

Steak
Exceptional quality and preparation, offering a more upscale dining experience within the food hall.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace Variety, Beat the Hunger
Smart Ordering & Seating
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reykjavik Food Hall Recomendations
🎯 Order & Find a Seat
Order first, then snag a table. Your buzzer will let you know when your delicious food is ready! :foodie:
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Fun
There's a playground outside, making it a great spot for families with kids to enjoy a meal. :child:
Spending a night in Reykjavik and we're hungry
If you're hungry right now in Reykjavík, Gísli Matt is doing a Slippurinn pop up menu at Skál in Hlemmur Mathöll.
🤝 Share the Experience
Don't hesitate to share tables and chat with fellow diners – it's part of the friendly vibe! :peopleholdinghands:
💯 Try a Little Bit of Everything
Perfect for trying multiple Icelandic dishes and international flavors in one go. :ice_cream:
Solo dining in Reykjavík
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Order & Find a Seat
Order first, then snag a table. Your buzzer will let you know when your delicious food is ready! :foodie:
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Fun
There's a playground outside, making it a great spot for families with kids to enjoy a meal. :child:
🤝 Share the Experience
Don't hesitate to share tables and chat with fellow diners – it's part of the friendly vibe! :peopleholdinghands:
💯 Try a Little Bit of Everything
Perfect for trying multiple Icelandic dishes and international flavors in one go. :ice_cream:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hlemmur Mathöll is celebrated as an amazing food hall offering incredible variety, making it perfect for groups with diverse tastes. Visitors rave about the delicious food, friendly atmosphere, and good prices, with many highlighting specific dishes like potato croquettes and fish and chips. While it can get cramped when busy, the communal vibe and outdoor playground add to its appeal.
"Amazing food hall. If you don’t know what you want or everyone in your party wants something different, this is the place to go. Can feel slightly cramped when busy but everyone was so patient and friendly. Shared a table with an Indian family, happily discussed what everyone got. On the table was wolf fish cream dish, pizza, tacos, gelato, and a pork and rice Vietnamese dish. All amazing.
My absolute favorite was potato and cheese croquettes. I will dream about them…
Order and find a table, wait for food buzzer to go off."
Eli Douglas
"Good food and good price.
Easy going place.
Super Atmosphere!!!
I like this place👍
Play ground outside for children."
Vala
"This was the perfect stop for a quick lunch! It’s a great way to try all different things! I highly recommend the blue mussels from the one location, and the croquettes from Krost. Definitely in great vibe, plenty of seating, and friendly service."
Kristen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hlemmur Mathöll is conveniently located at the main bus terminal, Hlemmur, in downtown Reykjavik. It's easily accessible by foot from most central hotels, or you can take any bus that stops at Hlemmur. It's a central hub, so finding it is straightforward.
While Hlemmur is a major transit point, dedicated parking directly at the food hall is limited. It's best to use public transport or walk if you're staying centrally. Nearby street parking may be available but can be challenging to find.
Absolutely! Hlemmur Mathöll is situated within the Hlemmur bus terminal, making it a primary stop for many Reykjavik bus routes. It's an excellent destination if you're exploring the city via public transit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Hlemmur Mathöll is free. You only pay for the food and drinks you order from the various vendors inside.
Hlemmur Mathöll typically opens around 11 AM and stays open until late evening, often around 10 PM or later, though specific vendor hours may vary slightly. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date times.
Hlemmur Mathöll operates on a first-come, first-served basis for seating. While you can't reserve a specific table, the system of ordering and waiting for your buzzer means you can usually find a spot, especially if you're flexible.
There are no entrance fees or cover charges to enter Hlemmur Mathöll. It's a public food hall where you purchase food and beverages directly from the individual food stalls.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Hlemmur Mathöll offers an incredible variety, from traditional Icelandic dishes like fish and chips and wolf fish cream soup to international favorites like pizza, tacos, and Vietnamese pho. You can also find gelato, pastries, and excellent coffee.
Yes, many vendors offer vegetarian and vegan options. You'll find choices like vegetable tacos, vegan pizzas, and other plant-based dishes. It's always a good idea to ask the specific vendor about their offerings.
Visitors rave about the potato and cheese croquettes, the blue mussels, and the fish and chips. The steak is also frequently mentioned as exceptional.
Prices are generally considered good for Reykjavik, offering a range of options from affordable snacks to more substantial meals. You can expect to spend roughly 2000-4000 ISK for a main dish, but this varies by vendor.
You order your food directly from the vendor of your choice, pay, and receive a buzzer. When your food is ready, the buzzer will go off, and you can collect your order from the counter.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, Hlemmur Mathöll has a vibrant atmosphere and diverse food offerings, making it a great spot for food photography. The lively setting also provides interesting shots of people and the bustling environment.
Early weekday afternoons can offer slightly less crowded conditions for clearer shots. Evenings are more atmospheric but can be challenging due to crowds and lighting.
Focus on the colorful food displays, the unique dishes being prepared, and the general buzz of the food hall. The exterior, especially at night, can also be photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents can relax knowing there are diverse options, and the casual atmosphere means you don't have to worry about formal dining etiquette. Sharing tables is common, and the general vibe is very welcoming to children. It’s a stress-free way to feed the whole family with minimal fuss.
💰 Budget Travelers
It's a great place to sample a variety of foods without committing to a single, expensive meal. Look for vendors offering lunch specials or smaller portions if you're on a tight budget. The ability to choose from multiple vendors also allows you to mix and match to fit your spending.
couples
Consider visiting in the evening when the food hall has a vibrant buzz. It’s a relaxed way to enjoy a meal together, perhaps trying a new cuisine or revisiting a favorite. The variety ensures you can cater to different moods or cravings, making it a versatile choice for any couple.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Culinary Heart of Reykjavik
Visitors often highlight the super atmosphere and the easy-going vibe of the place. It's a place where you can casually grab a quick lunch or enjoy a more leisurely dinner, all while soaking in the lively energy. The shared tables and communal seating encourage interaction, turning a meal into a social experience. It’s a testament to Reykjavik’s modern culinary scene, blending tradition with innovation.
Key takeaway: Hlemmur Mathöll is a must-visit for anyone looking for diverse, high-quality food in a lively and welcoming environment. It’s a place that truly embodies the spirit of communal dining in Iceland's capital.
Navigating the Flavors: What to Eat
Beyond these standout dishes, explore options like Vietnamese pork and rice, pizzas, tacos, and creamy wolf fish dishes. The food hall also features excellent gelato and coffee vendors, perfect for dessert or a pick-me-up. The ordering system is straightforward: order, pay, and wait for your buzzer to signal that your culinary adventure is ready.
Pro-tip: If you're feeling adventurous, try a dish from a vendor you've never heard of – you might discover your new favorite! The friendly staff are usually happy to offer recommendations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit