Grandi Matholl

Reykjavik's dining scene is excellent but not always budget-friendly, and choosing a restaurant when everyone in your group wants something different can be a challenge. Grandi Matholl solves both problems. This harbour-side food hall in the Grandi district brings together a collection of independent food vendors under one roof, each specialising in a different cuisine, with shared seating and harbour views that make it one of the most democratic dining experiences in the city.

What Is Inside

Grandi Matholl is not a static operation — vendors come and go, and the lineup evolves over time. What remains consistent is the variety. On a typical visit, you might find Nepali momos alongside Icelandic fish stew, Indonesian noodles next to gourmet burgers, and a coffee stand keeping everyone caffeinated through it all.

Several of the current vendors are run by immigrant women who have brought their home cuisines to Reykjavik — a fact that gives the hall a warmth and authenticity that larger food halls in other cities sometimes lack. The food is made with care, the portions are honest, and the prices are fair.

How It Works

The format is simple: walk in, browse the vendor stalls arranged around the perimeter, order at whichever counter appeals, and find a spot at one of the communal tables in the centre. Each person can order from a different vendor, which makes it ideal for groups with divergent appetites. There is no table service — you order, collect your food when your name is called, and bus your own table when you are done.

The Location

The Grandi harbour district has emerged as one of Reykjavik's most appealing neighbourhoods for visitors. The food hall sits among a cluster of attractions — Flatey Pizza next door, the Marshall House art galleries a short walk away, whale watching tours departing from the nearby pier, and the Whales of Iceland exhibition across the road. An afternoon in Grandi, with lunch at the food hall, is one of the better half-day itineraries the city offers.

The harbour views from the hall's windows add to the atmosphere, particularly on clear days when Mount Esja is visible across the bay.

Practical Tips

No reservations needed — just show up. Peak lunch hours (12:00-13:30) can get busy in summer, so arriving slightly before or after the rush is advisable. Most vendors accept cards. The hall is open daily from 11:00 to 21:00, though individual vendors may close earlier if they run out of food.

Grandi Matholl is not the most refined dining experience in Reykjavik, but it may be the most enjoyable casual one. Good food, good variety, good price, good location.