How much do the sandwiches cost?

Individual smorrebrod range from ISK 1,800-3,200 (approximately €12-22). Most people order two or three for a satisfying lunch.

Is Jomfruin only for lunch?

Primarily, though it is open through dinner hours. The smorrebrod format is best suited to a long, leisurely lunch, which is how the Danes intended it.

Do I need a reservation?

Not usually. The cafe accommodates walk-ins well, though weekend lunchtimes can get busy.

At Laekjargata 4, in the heart of central Reykjavik near Austurvollur square.

Why is there a Danish restaurant in Reykjavik?

Iceland was under Danish rule until 1944, and Danish culinary traditions — particularly smorrebrod and pastries — became deeply embedded in Icelandic food culture. Jomfruin keeps that tradition alive.

DanishCasual Dining

Jomfruin

Name: Jomfruin
Address: Laekjargata 4, 101 Reykjavik, IS
Telephone: +354 551 0100
Price range: $$
Rating: 4.3

4.3(876 reviews)$$$$Mid-rangeReykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik's Danish open sandwich institution — beautifully crafted smorrebrod with Icelandic toppings in a cosy, old-fashioned setting on Laekjargata.

Iceland's long history under Danish rule left many traces in Icelandic culture, and some of the most delicious are culinary. Jomfruin keeps the tradition of Danish smorrebrod — open-faced sandwiches on dark rye bread — alive and thriving on Laekjargata, one of Reykjavik's most central streets.

The Smorrebrod

Each sandwich is a carefully composed miniature — dark rye bread as the foundation, topped with combinations of herring, shrimp, smoked salmon, roast beef, egg, and an array of garnishes. The presentations are traditional and meticulous, each sandwich following time-honoured Danish conventions while incorporating Icelandic ingredients where appropriate.

Order two or three per person, paired with a beer or an aquavit, and you have one of the most civilised lunches available in Reykjavik. The shrimp smorrebrod is the most popular, and for good reason.

The Setting

Jomfruin has the feel of an old Copenhagen lunch spot transplanted to Iceland — cosy, slightly old-fashioned, and utterly charming. It is the kind of place where time slows down and a lunch stretches pleasantly into the afternoon.

Practical Tips

Come for lunch — the smorrebrod format is at its best in the middle of the day. The aquavit selection pairs traditionally with the sandwiches and is worth trying. Walk-ins are usually fine except on busy weekend lunchtimes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jomfruin known for?: Jomfruin specialises in Danish-style open sandwiches (smorrebrod) — rye bread topped with combinations of herring, shrimp, smoked salmon, roast beef, and other traditional toppings. Each sandwich is a small work of art.
How much do the sandwiches cost?: Individual smorrebrod range from ISK 1,800-3,200 (approximately €12-22). Most people order two or three for a satisfying lunch.
Is Jomfruin only for lunch?: Primarily, though it is open through dinner hours. The smorrebrod format is best suited to a long, leisurely lunch, which is how the Danes intended it.
Do I need a reservation?: Not usually. The cafe accommodates walk-ins well, though weekend lunchtimes can get busy.
Where is Jomfruin?: At Laekjargata 4, in the heart of central Reykjavik near Austurvollur square.
Why is there a Danish restaurant in Reykjavik?: Iceland was under Danish rule until 1944, and Danish culinary traditions — particularly smorrebrod and pastries — became deeply embedded in Icelandic food culture. Jomfruin keeps that tradition alive.