The Best Restaurants in the Westman Islands

Restaurants abound in Heimaey, as you’d expect from an island base where there’s plenty for visiting tourists to see and do. After you’ve finished your Westman Islands boat trip, hike or ATV ride, your attention is likely to be focused on your stomach, so let’s take a look at where you might consider eating with our roundup of the best restaurants in the Westman Islands.

Slippurinn

This restaurant is one of the best in the Westman Islands. Seasonally open from May to September, it occupies a building that was once a workshop serving Heimaey’s shipyard. Today, it serves up hearty Icelandic fare to visitors and locals. With an emphasis on sustainability and local produce, it’s a great place to have a meal. If you like what’s on your plate, you can also buy the Slippurinn cookbook and have a go at replicating their dishes back home.

Næs

Pronounced “nice”, næs is located across the street from Slippurinn and is run by the same people. This one concentrates on small plates with a menu that changes regularly but is always exciting, whether you eat meat and fish or prefer to stick to a plant-based diet. It’s a good place to go with a group of friends as you can order a variety of dishes to share. 

Einsi Kaldi

Located within the Hotel Vestmannaeyjar, this upscale restaurant is a good choice if you’re looking to eat somewhere epitomising sophistication and style. Chef Einar Björn Árnason is skilled at what he does, specialising in seafood but also showcasing local farm produce. Anchor ingredients such as lobster, cod, lamb and beef are transformed into innovative and creative dishes in this kitchen, a must for guests and non-guests alike. 

Gott

Gott is successfully helmed by head chef Sigurður Gíslason and his wife Berglind Sigmarsdóttir. Together this talented pair source local fresh ingredients, choosing fish from the local market and combining it with other ingredients to create wonderful dishes that will delight foodies. Like Slippurinn, they’re keen to share their passion for food and have written several cookbooks packed with their tried and tested recipes. Find them in the heart of the town centre within easy walking distance of the ferry.

Vöruhúsið

The menu of this family-friendly restaurant is definitely a crowd-pleaser, not least for its kids’ corner. A delicious range of pizzas is complemented by tacos and burgers; come hungry so that you also have room for the corn ribs. The funky vibe also translates to the bold and colourful décor. Unsurprisingly, this place gets busy, so book ahead, particularly if you’re here at the peak of the summer season. 

Tanginn

This harbourfront eatery boasts stellar views out over Heimaklettur to complement its delicious food. In summer, on a fine day, you might choose to dine al fresco to make the most of its location. Meat lovers will be tempted by a wide choice of burgers, lamb shank or reindeer steak, while those who prefer fish might opt for prawns or the catch of the day. Indian dishes such as butter chicken also feature on the menu. If you just can’t choose, then their popular buffet is the way to go.

Kráin 

If you’ve worked up an appetite on one of our ATV tours, then you’ll be pleased to know that Kráin is known for its filling and tasty food. Some of the dishes you might choose include meatballs, fish stew and of course Icelandic lamb. There’s also a range of burgers, fried chicken and other quick eats, all served in a casual setting whose décor is a step up from fast food outlets.