What is the concept at Forrettabarinn?

Forrettabarinn (The Appetiser Bar) serves only starters and small plates — no main courses. The idea is to order several small dishes and share them across the table, creating a varied and sociable meal.

How much does a meal cost?

Individual plates range from ISK 1,500-3,000 (approximately €10-21). Most people order four to five plates per person, making a full meal ISK 5,000-8,000 — good value for central Reykjavik.

Do I need a reservation?

Not usually, but weekend evenings can get busy. Walk-ins are generally fine.

Where is Forrettabarinn?

At Nylendugata 14, a short walk from the main shopping streets and the Old Harbour.

Is Forrettabarinn good for groups?

Excellent. The sharing format is ideal for groups — everyone orders different plates and the table becomes a communal feast.

What kind of dishes are on the menu?

A mix of European-influenced small plates: bruschetta, grilled prawns, mini fish tacos, lamb skewers, and seasonal specials. The menu changes regularly to keep things interesting.

EuropeanCasual Dining

Forrettabarinn

Name: Forrettabarinn
Address: Nylendugata 14, 101 Reykjavik, IS
Telephone: +354 517 1800
Price range: $$
Rating: 4.3

4.3(1123 reviews)$$$$Mid-rangeReykjavik, Iceland

The Appetiser Bar — an informal restaurant built entirely around starters and small plates. Order five, share everything, and discover why less is more.

Forrettabarinn takes a simple premise — what if an entire restaurant served nothing but starters? — and executes it with the kind of consistency that has kept locals returning for years. No main courses, no heavy plates, just a menu of small dishes designed to be ordered generously, shared freely, and enjoyed over good conversation.

The Format

Order four to five plates per person, spread them across the table, and eat communally. The menu rotates but typically includes a mix of seafood, meat, and vegetable preparations — think grilled prawns, lamb skewers, creative bruschetta, mini tacos, and seasonal specials. Each plate is small enough to leave room for the next, and varied enough to keep the meal interesting from start to finish.

Why It Works

The sharing format makes Forrettabarinn one of the most sociable restaurants in Reykjavik. It also makes it one of the best values — you eat a varied, satisfying meal for less than a single main course at many upscale restaurants nearby. The kitchen keeps things simple and well-executed rather than overly ambitious, and the result is food that consistently delivers without surprises.

Practical Tips

Come with friends — the format is designed for sharing. Walk in on weekdays; consider calling ahead on weekends. Lunch is a good time to visit for a lighter meal. The location is slightly off the main tourist track, which keeps the atmosphere pleasantly local.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the concept at Forrettabarinn?: Forrettabarinn (The Appetiser Bar) serves only starters and small plates — no main courses. The idea is to order several small dishes and share them across the table, creating a varied and sociable meal.
How much does a meal cost?: Individual plates range from ISK 1,500-3,000 (approximately €10-21). Most people order four to five plates per person, making a full meal ISK 5,000-8,000 — good value for central Reykjavik.
Do I need a reservation?: Not usually, but weekend evenings can get busy. Walk-ins are generally fine.
Where is Forrettabarinn?: At Nylendugata 14, a short walk from the main shopping streets and the Old Harbour.
Is Forrettabarinn good for groups?: Excellent. The sharing format is ideal for groups — everyone orders different plates and the table becomes a communal feast.
What kind of dishes are on the menu?: A mix of European-influenced small plates: bruschetta, grilled prawns, mini fish tacos, lamb skewers, and seasonal specials. The menu changes regularly to keep things interesting.