Rauða Húsið

Housed in a lovingly restored century-old building in the quiet coastal village of Eyrarbakki, Rauða Húsið (“The Red House”) is one of South Iceland’s most charming dining rooms, about ten minutes from Selfoss and a short hop off the ring road. White tablecloths, red napkins and soft music give it a gentle, old-world elegance.

Eyrarbakki was the birthplace of Iceland’s langoustine fishery, and the menu honours that heritage: lobster soup, surf and turf and various langoustine preparations sit alongside fish, lamb and vegetarian dishes.

It is a comfortable, special-occasion sort of place that still feels welcoming. Reservations are sensible, particularly in the evening and on weekends.