Five stars across the board! Food was incredible, staff was delightful, and the kitchen was so accommodating for my dairy and gluten allergies. Had the lamb tartare, the arctic char, and the roast potatoes with chimmichuri. Honestly, wish I would have eaten dinner here also because it was so good.
Strongly recommend visiting if you’re looking for a fabulous bite to eat in a very nice environment.
We entered cold and tired, we left reinvigorated and extremely full.
As a gluten-free option we could take the scampi and cream soup (good) and all the main dishes, i.e. the fish pans, absolutely great: generous portions and WOW flavours.
Informal but refined environment
Precise and kind service
Costs in line with the city
Allergen FriendlyDinnerOpen Late NightOutdoor SeatingVegan OptionsVegetarian OptionsDessertsLunchDeliveryTake AwayRestaurant
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Chelsea Skovran
For anyone traveling with dietary restrictions - you have to go here! Second trip to Iceland and second trip to Tapas barinn. We took this trip with a different group of friends than our first trip and this was one of our only requirements as to where to eat and it did not disappoint anyone (and we set high expectations for this place). Most important thing for me was how amazing they handled my dietary restriction. I have celiac disease which can make eating out very difficult and I had absolutely no problems and did not feel like I was left out of any part of the dining experience and for those that have dietary restrictions, you know how this is very common. I didn't get sick at all, I was take very seriously, and they explained the protocols they would take. Every time they dropped of a plate they would say "gluten free tapas" so I knew they were handing me the right plate, enough to let me know but not over the top to make me feel uncomfortable. I had the chef's experience (last time I had the Taste of Iceland) along with my husband (who does not have a dietary restriction) and the changes they made to some tapas for me were no big deal at all, we both equally enjoyed our meals. Also, highly recommend the Taste of Iceland experience for first timers but the chef's experience was equally amazing, just think the Taste of Iceland is something everyone should try at least once. The overall atmosphere was amazing, staff could not have been friendly or more knowledgable of the menu. It is slightly pricey but 100% worth it. We did this as our "fancy" date night and we could not have asked for a better experience. Again, must go for anyone with a dietary restriction!
Nice place they have gluten-free options but obviously can not guarantee cross contamination, but they do try and make an effort. Food was delicious and the staff was friendly and helpful.
There is a pleasant atmosphere here 😎 good music and a nice man at the entrance, who greets you and takes you to a table 👍🏻 it was important to us that the dish was really gluten-free, and the restaurant employee kindly agreed to check if the dish was really gluten-free 👏🏻 we ordered Nachos with Chicken 👍🏻 it's a pity that there are not many gluten-free dishes, I would like to try something else 😋
You have to come here. You Have To Come Here. YOU HAVE TO COME HERE!
They have one of the best (if not the best) fish soups I have had in my life❤️❤️❤️
If you’re celiac, they have specially prepared lamb or tomato soups. You can have as many lamb or tomato refills as you want. Their service is super friendly.
Prices are more than fair for Icelandic average. And, there were FREE Waffles?!!
I would give 6 stars if I could 🤩
I felt like the menu was created just for me! Gluten free, potato free, good spice, loads of veggies and creative menu that didn’t default to potatoes- this last detail is actually the most magical- everywhere we went it was a challenge to find veggies that were not potato. Fantastic flavors and super satisfying- wish we could have brought this restaurant home!
Best meal in Iceland. The lamb was probably the best lamb I’ve ever had. Staff was extremely accommodating and friendly. Partner has a gluten intolerance and they helped us navigate the menu and were great with substitutions. Highly recommend!
Amazing Icelandic food options! We tried the puffin, whale, horse, and lamb. The menu isn’t marked gluten free, but staff is knowledgeable about modifications that are possible. I have celiac and didn’t get sick.
Great place for a lunch will be just as good at night, I suspect, with a Gluten-free option on request for meals with 2 Icelandic Gluten-free beers on draft
Absolutely Delicious & Exceptionally Welcoming – A Must-Visit in Reykjavik!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Visiting from California, tonight I stumbled upon Shalimar Restaurant during my trip to Reykjavik - Center Plaza, and I’m so glad I did! From the moment I walked in, the staff made me feel completely at home. What stood out right away was how thoughtful and accommodating they were about my gluten-free needs—something that’s not always easy to find when traveling internationally.
The food? Incredible. Rich, authentic flavors that instantly transported me back to the kind of home-cooked meals you dream about. Every dish was perfectly spiced, fresh, and deeply comforting. You can truly taste the love and tradition in their cooking.
Whether you have dietary needs or just want to enjoy real South Asian cuisine in Iceland, Shalimar is a gem you shouldn’t miss. Warm hospitality, amazing food, and a cozy atmosphere—it felt like a little piece of home in the heart of Reykjavik.
Highly, highly recommend! 🌟
Celiac friendly
