Tjöruhúsið

Not going to lie. I made a reservation here first then planned my entire Iceland trip around it. This is my absolute favorite dining experience in Iceland. Imagine harbor views, a simple unassuming timber warehouse, long shared tables, and a warm, communal atmosphere where locals and travelers eat side by side. Tjöruhúsið, feels less like a restaurant and more like being invited into my BFF’s home for an unforgettable seafood feast. There’s no pretense, just seriously good food, hearty portions, and the feeling of sharing a meal the way locals have for generations. The menu is famously straightforward: whatever the fishermen have brought in that day. Freshly caught fish and shellfish are cooked simply, often pan-fried or baked with the tastiest ingredients and seasonings, and served family-style. The spread often includes pristine cod, haddock, wolffish, shrimp, scallops, and occasionally monkfish, all incredibly fresh and flavorful. Their langoustine soup is legendary. Everything is so good that I can’t help but go back for seconds (and thirds), which makes the whole experience feel deliciously addictive. This is the kind of meal that ruins other seafood for you. No hype, no theatrics, just absurdly fresh fish, endless refills, and a space alive with laughter, warmth, and second helpings. I left full, a little buzzed from the experience, and already dreaming of my next visit. Tjöruhúsið isn’t just a dinner stop—it’s the reason you plan the trip. And honestly? If you come to Iceland and miss this meal, you’ve done it all wrong. Helpful info: Make a reservation by email (the easiest option) or by phone. Kids eat at a discounted price.

Great host. Speaks fluent English and great humor. Love the record collection too! They even have oldies music from Indonesia, and somehow the vibe matches. We were served with 7 different fish, salads, rice, and langoustine / seafood soup. Taste great! Rather Asian flavors to my surprise. Price is quite steep, 9000ISK / pax, but for us it’s worth it for an all you can eat. Oh and reserve ahead!

I had an absolutely fun time! Make a reservation! The team were friendly and entertaining, food was fresh, hot and cooked with care (yes a tad salty) and music (vinyl!) was super rad! The team were so accommodating to my newly minted friend seated next to me who’s vegetarian (I loved the non-meat sides myself!). It’s totally true that one makes friends at the same table, swapping tales of Iceland adventures. We had round after round of food and really needed the hot tea after to digest. Pro-tip: take small portions the first round no matter how the generous staff insist and go back for the dishes you enjoy more.

We visited this fish restaurant as a family and absolutely loved it! The concept is fantastic — they serve only fish dishes, all cooked in large pans right in front of you. You can tell the owners are truly passionate — they’re the ones cooking, and it shows in every detail. The atmosphere is amazing: authentic, warm, and full of life. It’s the kind of place where you feel like you’ve discovered a local gem. What I loved most is that in one visit, you can try many different types of fish prepared in various ways — grilled, stewed, fried — each with its own unique flavor. Highly recommended if you’re a seafood lover and want to experience something real and full of character!

Such a wonderful experience, so much more than just lunch, it's like you're being welcomed into a local's home for a holiday meal. The food is amazing, you will not leave hungry. They were so considerate for my celiac friend, and made her a whole pan of fresh fish prepared gluten-free. You can also tell which server is the owners son... you can tell by the sense of humor!

We were lucky enough to eat at this unique and exceptional restaurant on our one day visit to Isafjordur on a cruise. It had a great vibe and a friendly welcome. The restaurant is in a traditional Icelandic wooden house with bench seating and a warm and friendly vibe. There were fairy lights everywhere and vinyl records playing, we loved Django Reinhardt, he fitted right in. After ordering our drinks we were invited to get our soup which was the most delicious soup ever, containing Halibut and Langoustine in a bisque with a hint of coconut. It was served with fresh crusty bread and herb butter. It was so good we didn't hesitate to go back for seconds and my daughter has been talking about it ever since, keen to try and replicate it. Next was a buffet of fish dishes using the fresh catch brought in by the local fishermen. There were six huge pans with dishes containing Pollack, Halibut, Salt Cod, Salmon, Wolf Fish and the house speciality Cod Cheeks. There was also an array of tasty salads and vegetables, rice and new potatoes. We were welcome to go back as often as we liked but I was so full after the first round, it was the most delicious fish I have ever had. The cod cheeks, house speciality, were like scallops but better, so soft. Tea and coffee were included along with custard creams and Icelandic Chocolate. The owners are clearly passionate about what they do and I will be forever grateful that I was able to experience something so outstanding. I hope to be able to return one day. Top tip book to avoid disappointment.

Hugh shout out to Tjöruhúsið for seating us without a reservation! This restaurant has by far the best seafood in Iceland and the price is unmatched. We started out with fish soup and bread to dip it in followed by six different fish all prepared six different ways and for dessert chocolate, cookies and coffee. It's all served buffet style. For the two of us, without drinks the cost was $100. If you're lucky enough to travel around the West Fjords go to the town of Ísafjörður for this spectacular meal. It is my understanding that whatever is caught from the sea in the morning is served at the restaurant the same day so they don't have a menu. Don't forget to walk around the charming town of Ísafjörður before and after your meal. FYI, it's advised that you do make a reservation in advance.

Nice nice nice place!!! Food is superb!!! Fish soup is a must. Atmosphere very friendly and full of joy. A must to go in Ísafjörður. Don't miss it!!!