Garðurinn — Restaurant in Reykjavik

Cozy cafe open until 5 pm, so go for lunch or afternoon coffee/tea. Seems popular with the locals who stop in for a hot snack and some quiet reading on a cold winter day.

Friendly service with a mouthwatering display of cakes and small dessert bites at the counter. Ingredients are listed for each item, great for dietary restrictions. Interesting fact, they don't use wheat flour in anything. While spelt flour isn't technically gluten-free many people with wheat allergies can tolerate spelt quite well, which is the case for me.

The hardest part is choosing only one dessert. I went with a large slice of the caramel cake, which was a light sponge batter laced with crunchy bits of dark mint chocolate and coconut flakes, topped with a soft caramel glaze. Very unique.

One of the best Americano coffees I've tasted as well. My only regret is that I don't live here or I'd come...

This place is exactly what it advertises to be: A home-cooked meal enjoyed low-key and relaxed at a kitchenette table. Make sure to check online what dish and soup they have that day. That’s it. No other options (aside from beverages and some desserts). The food is cooked with love and care and is both flavorful and filling. I went here three times in one week and enjoyed what I had.

Also, they just had their 24th anniversary!! Congratulations!! Here is to another 24...

I don’t think I’ve ever been to a place that felt more ‘zen’. The atmosphere was immaculate - I immediately felt like a part of a warm and welcoming community. Maybe it’s thanks to the friendly staff or the open kitchen area - in any case, it was a wonderful experience. The food was absolutely delicious and I liked that you could choose a smaller or bigger portion of the main meal. Would love to come...