Mathöll Food Hall

From Transit Hub to Tasting Room: A Culinary Evolution

Hlemmur Mathöll is more than just a place to grab a quick lunch; it represents a monumental shift in Reykjavik’s urban identity. Originally opened in 1978 as the city's primary bus terminal, the building spent decades as a utilitarian space where commuters braved the Icelandic wind while waiting for their connection. In 2017, following a visionary renovation, the terminal was reborn as a gourmet marketplace, retaining its iconic architectural bones while filling its interior with a curated selection of the country’s most innovative food vendors.

The transformation has turned Hlemmur into a vibrant social crossroads where locals and travelers sit elbow-to-elbow at communal tables. It has successfully bridged the gap between high-end gastronomy and accessible street food, proving that you don't need a white tablecloth to experience the best of Icelandic produce. Today, the hum of conversation has replaced the roar of engines, making it the ultimate destination for foodies looking to sample a diverse range of flavors under a single, historic roof.

Industrial Chic Meets Nordic Warmth

The interior design of Hlemmur Mathöll is a masterclass in "adaptive reuse," blending the building's industrial heritage with sleek, contemporary Nordic aesthetics. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, offering diners a front-row seat to the bustling energy of the surrounding Hlíðar neighborhood. The layout is intentionally open and fluid, encouraging visitors to wander between stalls—from the neon-lit taco counters to the minimalist, wood-accented wine bars—creating a sensory experience that feels both raw and refined.

Despite its origins as a cold transit station, the atmosphere inside is undeniably warm and inviting. The use of natural materials, soft ambient lighting, and high-quality acoustics ensures that even when the hall is at its busiest, it remains a comfortable spot for a long, lingering meal. It is a space that celebrates its past while firmly embracing a design-forward future, providing a stylish backdrop for the diverse crowd of artists, office workers, and explorers who call the food hall their second home.

Three Must-Try Dishes at Hlemmur Mathöll

1. The Glazed Arctic Char (Skál!)

Awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand, Skál! is the crown jewel of Hlemmur. Their Arctic Char is a visual and culinary masterpiece, typically served with local foraged herbs and a delicate balance of sweet and savory glazes. It perfectly encapsulates the "New Nordic" philosophy of using traditional Icelandic ingredients in surprising, modern ways.

2. The Umberto Pizza (Flatey Pizza)

For many locals, Flatey serves the finest Neapolitan-style pizza in the country. The "Umberto" is their standout creation, featuring a perfectly charred sourdough crust topped with San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella, pepperoni, and a surprising, creamy finish of mascarpone and dates. It is the ultimate comfort food with a sophisticated twist.

3. Surtla Lamb Chops (Fjárhúsið)

You cannot visit an Icelandic food hall without sampling the local lamb, and Fjárhúsið specializes in free-roaming, grass-fed cuts. Their Surtla chops are famously juicy and seasoned with Arctic herbs, served alongside small baked potatoes. It’s a rustic, hearty dish that pays homage to the country’s agricultural roots within a fast-casual setting.