MATEY SEAFOOD FESTIVAL RETURNS TO SHOWCASE ICELAND’S SEAFOOD EXCELLENCE

MATEY seafood festival returns to showcase Iceland’s seafood excellence. The MATEY Seafood Festival is set to return to Iceland’s Vestmannaeyjar archipelago on 22–23 May 2026, bringing together leading chefs, local producers and seafood professionals for a unique celebration of the country’s world-class seafood.

Held in one of Iceland’s most important fishing communities, the festival highlights the connection between coastal heritage, sustainable fisheries and culinary innovation. Over the course of the two-day event, the islands will once again be transformed into a hub for seafood excellence, attracting visitors from across the industry as well as culinary enthusiasts.

At the heart of the festival is a strong emphasis on provenance and sustainability, with seafood sourced directly from local waters and served in collaboration with family-run restaurants. Visiting chefs will work alongside local teams to reinterpret Icelandic seafood, combining traditional techniques with modern culinary approaches.

Set against the volcanic landscape of the Vestmannaeyjar islands, the festival offers an immersive experience that reflects Iceland’s blue economy, showcasing not only premium seafood but also the communities and the fisheries that support it.

This year’s festival features three outstanding guest chefs, each collaborating with leading restaurants in Vestmannaeyjar. Together, they will create distinctive dining experiences that highlight Iceland’s freshest ingredients, combining tradition, innovation and world-class craftsmanship.

Hákon Már Örvarsson: GOTT

One of Iceland’s most respected chefs, Hákon Már Örvarsson gained international recognition with a bronze medal at the prestigious Bocuse d’Or. He has worked in Michelin-starred kitchens, including alongside Léa Linster, and held leading roles at renowned restaurants such as Vox and Hotel Holt.

At GOTT, he will present refined dishes that combine classical technique with a modern approach to Icelandic ingredients.

Gústav Axel Gunnlaugsson:  Einsi Kaldi

Awarded Icelandic Chef of the Year in 2010, Gústav Axel Gunnlaugsson is the owner of Sjávargrillið and a leading figure in Iceland’s contemporary culinary scene.

At Einsi Kaldi, he will showcase bold and creative seafood dishes, blending Icelandic traditions with international influences.

Vilhjálmur Sigurðarson:  Næs

Icelandic chef Vilhjálmur Sigurðarson is former owner and head chef of Souvenir, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Ghent. Known for his philosophy of simplicity, seasonality and respect for producers, his cuisine emphasizes clarity of flavor and purpose.

At Næs, he will create a menu rooted in local ingredients, offering guests a thoughtful and refined interpretation of Icelandic seafood.

With its focus on fresh, locally sourced seafood and collaborative innovation, the festival continues to highlight Iceland’s reputation as a leader in sustainable seafood production and culinary excellence.

Event Information

Dates: May 22–23, 2026

Location: Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland

Participating Restaurants: GOTT, Einsi Kaldi, Næs

More information and reservations:

https://www.visitvestmannaeyjar.is/matey-seafood-festival

Image: MATEY