SAGA SHOP - Haust I Fall 2019

80 Icelandair Stopover BAN THAI You know you’re in for a fun evening when the stairway to the restaur- ant is adorned with parrot wallpaper and a portrait of a winking Virgin Mary. It’s clear that Burro doesn’t take itself too seriously—well, the kitchen output is seriously tasty, and their commitment to sustainable practices is laudable, but they know you’re here for a good time. And they deliver the goods. In a colorful, relaxed space inhabited by plants and plastic toucans, prime local produce is given an exotic South American spin (with a little more heat than the traditional Icelandic kitchen normally provides): zesty ceviche made from fresh Arctic char is a delicious example, as is grilled beef fillet served with exotic sauces and sides (chimichurri, aji amarillo, queso fresco and more). Clever set menus make decisions easier: There’s a three-course experience bringing Latin twists to Icelandic classics, while the five- course menu lets you taste-test Burro’s best-loved dishes, including the crispy cheese sticks labelled “life-changing” (totally moreish), and the fresh ceviche. When you’re done, climb one last flight of stairs to hit the late-night, top-floor Pablo Discobar, featuring fun flamboyant design, inventive cocktails, and a guaranteed danceable soundtrack. Stop by for Pablo’s great happy hour, from 5 pm to 7 pm. Veltusund 1 Open 5 pm-11 pm burro.is For almost 30 years, Tómas and Dúna Boonchang have treated diners to authentic Thai cuisine, which year after year is hailed by food critics as the “Best Thai Food in Reykjavík.” The voluminous menu features dishes such as “Tiger Cry”: thinly sliced grilled beef with mint and coriander and a lime and chili dressing; and tofu and vegetables with coconut milk and panang curry. It’s the polar opposite of traditional Icelandic fare, but locals love the variety and explosion of flavors. Tourists are also catching on, as are the rich and famous— even Hollywood stars seek out the humble establishment by Hlemmur Bus Terminal. Laugavegur 130 Open Sun–Thu: 6–10 pm, Fri–Sat: 6–11:30 pm banthai.is BURRO TAPAS + STEAKS There’s a sweet expression in Icelandic for one who lingers: “to hang around like a gray cat ( grái kötturinn ).” This petite café has lingered long on the Reykjavík scene—its cozy corners and cute retro stylings have been inviting locals to hang out since 1997, surrounded by books and art. The menu of diner favorites was inspired by travels in the USA, and early opening hours (from 7:30 am weekdays, 8 am weekends) make it a perfect spot for fresh-off-the-plane travelers to refuel and get their bearings. Dig into fluffy pancakes, eggs and bacon, bagels, and the trademark “Truck” breakfast, a hunger-busting dish that will likely remove any need for lunch. Hverfisgata 16a Open Mon–Fri: 7:30 am–2:30 pm, Sat–Sun: 8 am–2:30 pm graikotturinn.is GRÁI KÖTTURINN Special Promotion