Review The Downtown Cafe & Bar - Reykjavik

Takk fyrir

I hate giving a poor review, but honestly, it was a bit disappointing. When we entered, it took a bit for the server to greet us. We were about 15 minutes early for happy hour and the restaurant was relatively quiet. We ordered two traditional Icelandic lamb soups and chicken nachos. Overall the food was decent. The flavors weren’t outstanding, but the food was properly cooked and brought out fairly quick. The soup didn’t contain as much broth as I would like. Additionally, there wasn’t enough lamb in the soup. Instead, the large pieces of vegetables overtook the entire meal. I don’t mind vegetables at all. But these cuts were large and it felt like a bread bowl filled with vegetable chunks; not enough broth and lamb. Here’s why I’m rating the restaurant low, however. The level of attention at this place is nonexistent. Maybe I’m a spoiled American and feel there should be more attention; but I’ve worked in hospitality my entire life. We received our drinks once and never did the server ask again for more (and they are paid drinks). By the time we finished our meals, the server never passed by to us to ask if we needed anything or if we’re ready to pay. We noticed two other parties also waited. In both occasions, a patron would have to walk up to the bar counter and ask for the check. Each time, the server mentioned to the patron to return and he’ll come back with the check. I decided against standing up and requesting the check. I figured with my wallet clearly on display at the table; and the fact we hadn’t touched our plates for well over 20 minutes, he would get the signal. It didn’t work. Eventually I moved to make it apparent I was standing up. Only then did he ask if we’re ready to pay. Perhaps it’s a custom in Iceland to walk up and pay rather than wait at the table. If that’s the case, then I’ll update my review. But I’m a relatively seasoned traveler. Hospitality is hospitality. Especially if your customers are North Americans and Europeans for the most part, there are expectations. I’m not sure I’d return here. I’m certain there are other soup restaurants comparable with flavor and preparation. But just based on service and attention, I’d go elsewhere.

Buona zuppa, anche se servizio e ambiente sono un po' alla buona. Però, con prezzi decisamente nella media per la città, in questo locale potete trovare una modesta scelta di zuppe che vi riscaldino nelle fredde e ventose serate islandesi, zuppe che sono rigorosamente servite nel tradizionale piatto di pane (che contribuisce non poco a saziare, se volete mangiare anche quello!)

(Þýtt af Google) Skilti segir „Besta súpan í miðbænum“ og það er satt! Frábærar súpur bornar fram í skál með miklu fjölkornabrauði. Prófaðu klassísku kjötsúpuna, fiskinn, skelfiskinn og lambakjötið. Allt frábært! (Upprunalegt) Un cartello indica "Best soup in downtown", ed è vero! Ottime zuppe servite in una ciotola di ottimo pane multicereali. Provata la zuppa classica di carne, quella di pesce, quella di crostacei e quella di agnello. Tutte ottime!

(Þýtt af Google) Súpur voru í lagi, rýmið er notalegt en þjónustan gæti verið betri. Ég hélt virkilega að fólk í Reykjavík, sérstaklega í þjónustuviðskiptum við viðskiptavini, myndi hafa sæmilega ensku, en netþjóninn gaf mér í raun ekki þá tilfinningu. Í kjötsúpunni voru færri kjötbitar en ég bjóst við, einnig fiskisúpan. Einnig þýðir gamlárskvöldverður 500kr aukalega á mann, ég meina það er sanngjarnt en þetta er í fyrsta skipti sem ég heyri um það ... (Upprunalegt) Soups were alright, space is cozy, but the service could be better. I really thought folks in Reykjavik, especially in customer service section, would have decent English, but the server didn't really give me that impression. The meat soup had less meat chunks than I expected, so does the fish soup. Also, New Year's dinner means an extra 500kr per person, I mean it is fair but this is the first time I've heard of it...

Bit of a long wait, as seems understaffed. But never the less really warm interior with nice soup

I went here several times during my stay. Well priced meals and beer. The owner is really cool and fun to talk to.

Backpackers restaurant. Goed te eten voor een redelijke prijs. Wel druk, maar omdat het goedkoper is dan de omliggende restaurants.