Skál

The story

Crafted with passion, served with love

The Team Behind the Toast

Skál! was born from a shared vision between three friends: chef Gísli Matt, Björn Steinar, and Gísli Grímsson. The latter two are the founders of Saltverk, Iceland's best-known sea-salt producer, while Gísli Matt made his name at Slippurinn. Together, they set out to open a fairly priced bar where both food and drinks would meet a genuinely high standard — a deceptively simple idea that turns out to be rare. Head chef Thomas Lorentzen has since joined as a partner, bringing fresh momentum to the kitchen.

From Food Hall to Its Own Address

Skál! spent its first seven years at Hlemmur Mathöll, Reykjavík's converted old bus terminal and Iceland's first food hall. That original setting suited the gastropub spirit perfectly: lively, unpretentious, and serious about what's on the plate and in the glass. After growing steadily in that space, the restaurant has moved to a dedicated location at Njálsgata 1 in central Reykjavík — a new chapter without abandoning what made it work.

Icelandic Produce, Naturally

The kitchen's focus is squarely on Icelandic ingredients, used with creativity and without ceremony. Paired with that are natural wines — the list is a genuine point of pride — alongside Icelandic beers, house-brewed sparkling teas, and craft cocktails overseen by head bartender Keli. The gastropub format here is not a shortcut; it's a deliberate choice to keep quality high and the atmosphere relaxed.

Recognition That Means Something

The White Guide awarded Skál! its "Very fine level" distinction in 2026, noting how the team has expanded the definition of a gastropub while reshaping casual dining in a demanding market. That follows a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2019 — recognition for exceptional food at moderate prices — and four consecutive "Best Goddamn Restaurant" titles from Reykjavík Grapevine (2020, 2022, 2023, and 2024). The consistency of that local acclaim, alongside international guide recognition, says more than any single award could on its own.