Discover Iceland’s Michelin-Starred Culinary Gems
When most travelers think of Iceland, they imagine breathtaking glaciers, thundering waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes. But this Nordic island nation is also quietly making waves in the world of fine dining.
Iceland’s Michelin Stars: A Snapshot
Dill: Pioneering Icelandic Cuisine
In 2017, Reykjavík’s Dill became Iceland’s very first restaurant to earn a coveted Michelin star. Led by Chef Gunnar Karl Gíslason, Dill is known for its innovative, hyper-local tasting menus. The kitchen crafts dishes inspired by Iceland’s raw nature, incorporating ingredients like spruce tips, crowberries, and foraged herbs. Dill also earned a prestigious Green Star in 2022, highlighting its commitment to sustainability—a core part of its philosophy.
Set in a moody, intimate space on Laugavegur street located downtown, the restaurant’s décor echoes Iceland’s volcanic and turf-house heritage, creating an immersive atmosphere that perfectly complements the culinary experience.
ÓX: An Intimate Icelandic Tasting Journey
More recently, ÓX earned its first Michelin star in 2022. This small, 16-seat speakeasy-style venue offers a unique, deeply personal tasting menu crafted by Chef Thráinn Freyr Vigfússon. With a focus on tradition, ÓX draws inspiration from the chef’s grandfather’s farmhouse kitchen and Iceland’s rich culinary heritage, delivering a storytelling dining experience like no other.
Beyond Michelin: Other Top Icelandic Fine Dining Spots
While Dill and ÓX represent the pinnacle of Icelandic fine dining, several other restaurants deserve mention for their excellence:
- Grillmarkaðurinn (The Grill Market): Famous for locally sourced meats and seafood, served in a warm and welcoming setting downtown Reykjavík.
- Fiskfélagið (The Fish Company): Known for inventive seafood dishes that blend tradition with modern culinary techniques.
- Matur og Drykkur: Offers a contemporary twist on classic Icelandic recipes, nestled in a charming historic saltfish factory.
- Brút: Helmed by a former Dill chef, this seafood-focused spot delivers creative fish dishes paired with playful wines.
Why Iceland’s Culinary Scene Matters
These Michelin accolades are more than just awards—they represent a broader renaissance in Icelandic cuisine. Chefs here are reclaiming ancient ingredients and culinary traditions, marrying them with modern techniques and a strong ethos of sustainability. The result? A distinctive, bold food culture that’s as adventurous as the landscapes themselves.
Whether you’re planning a foodie trip to Reykjavík or simply curious about new culinary frontiers, Dill and ÓX offer unforgettable journeys through Iceland’s tastes, textures, and traditions.