Sæta Svínið Gastropub

If your ideal dinner consists of eating on a patio with a good beer in hand, you won't be disappointed by this lively pub. You can even mingle with the locals for a rousing game of bingo on Sunday night. Keep an eye out for the burger of the month—they can get pretty inventive.

Tuck into meaty and creative pub food while quaffing a litre of the local ale at this three-storey feature of Reykjavík's gastropub scene.

Right in the middle of downtown near Ingólfstorg Square, Sæta Svínið is a bustling gastropub that knows how to mix comfort food, great drinks, and lively energy. With its playful name—"The Sweet Pig"—and welcoming vibe, it’s become a favorite among locals and travelers alike for both daytime dining and evening fun. The menu at Sæta Svínið serves up elevated pub classics like burgers, steak sandwiches with waffle fries, grilled salmon, and slow-cooked lamb shoulder—all in generous portions and at fair prices for a central spot.

This fun place, literally next door to Fjallkonan, serves good food in a lively environment, and the service is always done with a smile. They have three floors to choose from, so if you want a romantic setting, I would suggest the 2 nd floor, but if you like the buzz and excitement, stay on the 1 st floor. There I would choose the delicious Lamb shank, or if you want to share, I would suggest the slow-cooked lamb shoulder.

During our stay in Reykjavik, we noticed that this gastropub was always packed with people and therefore we decided to give it at try. We were welcomed by friendly staff, background music and so much positive energy that we felt immediately in good mood, all tiredness from the intense day we had gone. We sat at the last table available and quickly ordered food and drinks.

Lastly, for a truly Icelandic experience, don’t miss out on Sæta Svínið Gastropub where you can try the Icelandic lamb burger—a savory treat that highlights the rich flavors of local produce. Each of these places offers a quick solution to your hunger without sidelining taste, making them perfect stops during your exploration of Iceland’s capital.

For something a little more casual, head to Sæta Svínið, meaning ‘Sweet Pig’. Set in a traditional Icelandic house close to Ingólfur Square, you’ll find a friendly gastropub offering curated, quality grub. Rustic interiors and outdoor seating ensure this is a welcoming place to chill and savor good food at any time of day.

Sitting on the corner of Reykjavik’s bustling city square, Sæta Svínið is known for its innovative cuisine and cozy atmosphere. I would describe the interior as eating inside a stylish fisherman’s home. There are quirky paintings, nautical light fixtures, and polaroid photos adorned to the pillars.

The food focuses on Icelandic ingredients churning out dishes like Icelandic Blue Mussels and a traditional flatkaka bread among others. We are here to drink though. The cocktails come fast from the efficient bar including their towering blush Mai Tai (ISK2790, US$20, £16, €17).

Our stops include a brilliant new Gastropub, the oldest restaurant in Reykjavik, the legendary hot dog stand, a favorite food market (if open), The authentic Seabaron down by the old Reykjavik harbor and Icelandic Fish and chips. Make sure you arrive hungry!

Another newbie in the restaurant business in Reykjavík is Sæta svínið. The restaurant was opened just a year ago, but soon became one of the hot spots in the city, for party-goers and gourmets alike. Their take on food is really unique, as is the décor.

Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options.Closed: 24th & 25th DecemberOpen: 26th December & 1st January (5:30 PM – 10:00 PM) 31st December (11:30 AM – 9:30 PM) Website: www.saetasvinid.is – Book a table

The name of this lively gastro pub translates as “The Cute Pig”. It’s a fun place to come for a meal, not least for the Sunday evening entertainment in the form of party bingo. The food’s great, too.

And if vegan food is a little too healthy (or not meaty enough) try the nearby Sæta Svínið Gastropub. In the summer their patio is great for people watching.