WarningThis post contains images that may cause drooling.
On my recent trip to Silfa Dive Centre I asked the instructor which of the restaurants in Reykjavic is his favourite. He instantly said that the Grill Market was excellent and a favourite spot for the majority of the locals as a place to treat themselves. Acknowledging that this may well be a place to spend a months salary on, we set off for the restaurant strictly to see if the place was truly exceptional. Having taken an age to search Reykjavik’s back roads we eventually found the elusive venue, but Dad was desperate for the loo and so we entered without looking at the menu. So much for forward thinking!
(Photos above are borrowed from the restaurant website which is cited at the end)
The building was immense. It had originally been a theatre which was unfortunately destroyed in a fire. When it was rebuilt it was decided that the exterior should be made to the same specifications as the original. However, the layout inside was designed completely from scratch. The result is an amazing stone building with a beautifully finished modern interior. I’ve honestly never seen a building like it and the way it symbolises Iceland is perfect. Dad was similarly pleased and decided that it was only fitting that we enjoy the find with a bit of extravagance. And so begins the story of our tasting menu at the Grill Market, Reykjavik.
Dried Cod deep fried in Spinach Batter & Squid Tempura with Tartar Sauce
Duck Salad with Mozzarella, Spinach Leaves, Grapefruit, Mandarins and Pomegranate Seeds
Beef Carpacciio with Chilli, Pesto and Pine Nuts
Spare Ribs with Grill Market Dressing and Barbecue Sauce
Blue Ling with Cottage Cheese, Parsnip Chips, Soya Sesame Dressing and Rocket Salad
Prime of Lamb with Sweetened Yellow Beet Paste, Pickled Yellow Beet and Spring Onion
Beef Rib Eye with Mushroom Glaze and Roasted Vegetables
Dessert Platter – Creme Brulee, Lemon and Blueberry Sorbet, Apple Tart, Mascarpone & Coffee Ice Cream topped with a Chocolate Lid & Hot Toffee Sauce
The Blue Ling was my personal favourite although the whole menu was excellent. Combined with the sharp service from a team of well-trained staff made for an excellent night of dining. Being seated with a view to the kitchen was a nice touch. I would highly recommend the Grill Market as would many others, it holds 2nd place in the TripAdvisor restaurant rankings for Reykjavik at the time of writing.
Where’s your favourite spot to eat in Reykjavic? Think there are any other great spots to eat I should check out on my route? Let me know in the comments!
Tomorrow is the Golden Circle…
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