Eat and Drink | Iceland Monitor | Fri 13 Jan 2017 | 15.38 GMT

Aalto bistró at the Nordic House reopens

Owner of Aalto bistro, Sveinn Kjartansson. Mbl.is/ Kristinn

The popular Aalto Bistro at Reykjavik's Nordic House, designed by Finnish architect Alvar Aalto has reopned following a brief closure since January 1st. Owner Sveinn Kjartansson explains that plumming in the building needed revision and that they used the opportunity to repaint the restaurant and prepare a new menu.

Kjartanson, who opened the restaurant three years ago is also known for hosting an award-winning Icelandic TV show on Rúv called Fagur Fiskur, on preparing seafood and local life by the seaside.

The Nordic House in Reykjavík is a cultural institution opened in 1968 and operated by the Nordic Council of Ministers. Mbl.is/ Sverrir Vilhelmsson

Alvar Aalto designed both the exterior and the interior of the Nordic House which is definitely worth a visit on an Iceland trip. Even all the tables, chairs, lighting down to the doorknobs is designed by the famous architect.

At Aalto bistro all the cutlery is also designed by Aalto, produced by famous design company Ittala.

Everyone's raving about the vegan dishes at Aalto bistro.

He explains that he puts an emphasis on fish and seafood mixed with vegan dishes. "The restaurant is very popular even though its a bit away from the city centre. We serve a lot of Icelandic customers although we get a few tourists. The location is of course unique, we're still in the central postcode 101 but surrounded by nature. "

Aalto bistró is also a café during the daytime serving homemade cakes and aromatic coffee and tea.

For bookings and further details see HERE.