Eldsmiðjan was one of the country’s first pizzerias, a sensation when it opened 18 years ago in the city centre. They seem to have established a whole generation of old fans, and my companion was one of those – stunned to see that the place has grown two floors, so you can actually sit and eat now.
The hyper-kitschy art on the grey walls makes certain no one feels intimidated in there – as does the kindergarten outside the window. You will find a very mixed crowd in the restaurant, but mostly people under 40.
The staff was a bit insecure, yet fulfilled any request without scruples. As my companion asked for a small Coke, but in a big glass, with water added, it was served, and no questions asked. Which I found remarkable.
I didn’t taste the wine in there, as soda seemed more appropriate to the atmosphere ... even at nine in the evening it feels like lunch rather than dinner. The pizzas are great, and might be your only opportunity to taste Reykjavík-Napolitan food ever, as the basically traditional North Italian pizza here is baked over open fire from aromatic birch, leaving a wonderfully eccentric taste on top of the ingredients.
Especially recommended: the nut/chicken/sun-dried tomatoes variety.
Eldsmiðjan, Bragagötu 38a,
Tel. 562-3838