north-iceland · Iceland
RUB23 Restaurant
About RUB23 Restaurant
RUB23 is one of Akureyri's best restaurants, known for its inventive twist on Japanese-inspired cuisine using fresh North Iceland seafood and locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant also features an outdoor hot tub for diners to use.
History & Background
This site in North Iceland is part of Iceland's evolving culinary scene. Traditional Icelandic cuisine was shaped by isolation and harsh conditions — preservation methods like smoking, fermenting, and drying were essential for survival through long winters. Dishes like hákarl (fermented shark), harðfiskur (dried fish), and hangikjöt (smoked lamb) reflect this heritage. The modern Icelandic restaurant scene has flourished since the late 20th century, blending traditional ingredients with international techniques. Today, Icelandic chefs celebrate local ingredients — Arctic char, lamb, skyr, and wild herbs — creating a distinctive New Nordic cuisine that honors the past while embracing innovation.
Did You Know?
- ✔Akureyri's top seafood restaurant
- ✔Choose fish + rub preparation
- ✔Excellent sushi
- ✔~5,000-8,000 ISK mains
- ✔Modern harbor setting
Tours Near RUB23 Restaurant
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
No specific tours found for this attraction.
Browse Iceland Tours →About RUB23 Restaurant
RUB23 is located in central Akureyri. Menu: - Fresh Icelandic fish (choose fish + rub) - Sushi and sashimi - Meat options - Creative cocktails Rub options: - Asian (soy, ginger, garlic) - Mediterranean (olive oil, herbs) - Jamaican jerk - Classic (butter, lemon) Price: Mains ~5,000-8,000 ISK Atmosphere: Modern, harbor building Reservations: Recommended Open: Dinner daily Address: Kaupvangsstræti 6, Akureyri
History & Background
This site in North Iceland is part of Iceland's evolving culinary scene. Traditional Icelandic cuisine was shaped by isolation and harsh conditions — preservation methods like smoking, fermenting, and drying were essential for survival through long winters. Dishes like hákarl (fermented shark), harðfiskur (dried fish), and hangikjöt (smoked lamb) reflect this heritage. The modern Icelandic restaurant scene has flourished since the late 20th century, blending traditional ingredients with international techniques. Today, Icelandic chefs celebrate local ingredients — Arctic char, lamb, skyr, and wild herbs — creating a distinctive New Nordic cuisine that honors the past while embracing innovation.
Story & Folklore
RUB23 revolutionized Akureyri dining when it opened. The concept is simple: pick your fish (salmon, Arctic char, cod, monkfish) and choose your preparation 'rub' (Asian, Mediterranean, Jamaican spices, etc.). The result is fresh Icelandic fish with creative flavors. Also excellent sushi using Icelandic fish. The restaurant occupies a renovated harbourside building with modern Scandinavian interior. It's become North Iceland's go-to date-night and celebration restaurant. Reservations recommended. Prices mid-to-high (~5,000-8,000 ISK mains).
Visitor Information
Best Time
Year-round; book ahead during summer peak season
Why Visit
Akureyri's best seafood — choose your fish and 'rub' preparation, plus excellent sushi in modern harbor setting.
Did You Know?
RUB23's name comes from the concept — 'rub' your fish with chosen spices before cooking at 23 Stone Street (original location).
The Lagarfljót Wyrm
The lakes and rivers of North and East Iceland are said to harbor the Lagarfljótsormurinn, a fearsome serpent similar to Scotland's Loch Ness Monster. According to legend, a young girl placed a gold ring on a heath serpent to make it grow, but the creature grew so large and fierce that she threw it into Lagarfljót lake. The serpent continued to grow and has terrorized the area for centuries. Sightings have been reported well into the modern era, with some photographs and videos purporting to show the creature. Whether real or imagined, the legend reflects Iceland's deep connection to its watery landscapes and the mysteries they hold.
📖 Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Hidden Gems Nearby
Best Time of Day
Visit this attraction during golden hour (the hour after sunrise or before sunset) for the most beautiful light.
Iceland's low-angle sunlight creates long shadows and warm colors that transform ordinary scenes into extraordinary ones.
Local Knowledge
Ask locals for their favorite nearby spots — Icelanders are friendly and love sharing recommendations.
The best experiences often come from local tips about lesser-known viewpoints, cafés, or hidden natural features.
Weather Changes
Don't leave if the weather is bad — wait 15 minutes and it often changes dramatically.
Iceland's rapidly changing weather can transform a gray scene into a spectacular display of light and clouds in minutes.
Practical Information
Best Time
Year-round; book ahead during summer peak season
Duration
1-2 hours
Access
Located in towns and along main roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation?▾
Reservations are recommended, especially during summer tourist season and weekends. Many restaurants accept online bookings.
What are the typical prices?▾
Dining in Iceland is generally expensive by international standards. Expect main courses to cost 3,000-6,000 ISK at most restaurants.
Do they have vegetarian options?▾
Most Icelandic restaurants offer vegetarian and often vegan options. Iceland's food scene has become increasingly diverse in recent years.
