If you’re on the hunt for the best restaurants in Iceland, you’re in for a treat. The culinary scene here is as captivating as its breathtaking landscapes.
While Iceland might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of gastronomic delights, this small island nation boasts an array of fantastic dining spots worth exploring.
It’s true that Iceland can be quite pricey for travelers, leading many to opt for instant noodles and other budget-friendly meals. However, we realized on our first visit in 2017 that we underestimated the quality and variety of the local cuisine.
Thankfully, during our return in 2019, we made it a mission to savor more of what Icelandic dining has to offer!
From fresh seafood to grass-fed beef, indulging in authentic Icelandic cuisine is an experience you simply can’t miss. Unique delicacies abound, such as fermented shark and puffin, although I must admit they’re not to my liking!
On one of our trips, we even sampled sheep dung-smoked whale sperm beer—a curiosity in its own right. The use of sheep dung for smoking is a historical necessity in the treeless landscape of Iceland, while the whale sperm remains a mystery that leaves us both scratching our heads.
So, without further ado, here’s a guide to the best places to eat and drink in Iceland—showcasing all the memorable dining experiences from our two visits!
Plan Your Trip to Iceland
As you prepare for your Icelandic adventure, here are some additional resources to help you organize your perfect getaway:
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Best Restaurants in Iceland
I have included a handy map from Google Maps that marks the towns and areas discussed, helping you pinpoint the best dining options based on your travel itinerary.
For your convenience, I’ve organized the locations in a counterclockwise direction beginning from Reykjavik.
The Town’s Best Sausages
During our first visit, we were students on a tight budget, and we largely missed out on dining at local restaurants. However, we did indulge in hot dogs from Bæjarins, undoubtedly one of Reykjavik’s culinary gems, and they exceeded our expectations.
We returned on our second trip solely for those delicious hot dogs, loaded with delectable toppings that elevate the experience—especially the unique mix of raw and fried onions.
You’ll find this style of hot dogs in various locations across the country, and during our second visit, we made it a point to enjoy them regularly at gas stations along our route.
LOCATION: Various spots across Iceland
Café Loki
Though I can’t claim that eating rotten shark is a delight, it’s certainly an adventure worth undertaking for the bold foodie. At Café Loki in Reykjavik, we tried a tasting platter that showcased various fish, including the infamous fermented shark.
To our surprise, we found ourselves enjoying the buttered dried fish more than expected, though the fermented shark was an acquired taste. Adam described its flavor as reminiscent of the ocean, while I found it a bit too intense for my palate.
Don’t miss their homemade brown bread, which is delightful—though I still regret not trying their brown bread ice cream!
LOCATION: Lokastigur 28, 101 Reykjavík
Friðheimar
If there’s one restaurant you must visit in Iceland, it’s Friðheimar. Conveniently situated along the Golden Circle—the country’s most popular driving route—this unique eatery is both a greenhouse and a dining spot, with tomatoes featured prominently on their menu.
What sets their tomatoes apart is their growth using geothermal water sourced from the glaciers. We enjoyed an array of dishes, including bottomless tomato soup, mussels, tomato beer, and even tomato ice cream. While the tomato flavor wasn’t as pronounced in the beer, every other dish was a delight!
Be sure to try their olive bread—it’s absolutely divine. Given its location near major attractions like Þingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area, this is the perfect dining stop while exploring the wonders of the Golden Circle.
LOCATION: Friðheimar, Reykholt
The Old Barn
Known in English as Gamla fjósið, The Old Barn operates its farm where they raise grass-fed cattle used in their restaurant. You might be surprised by how juicy and flavorful their burgers are, especially given the farm’s remote location!
The charming vintage decor only adds to the inviting atmosphere, making for a memorable meal. You’ll find this culinary gem in southern Iceland, near the ferry terminal to Vestmannaeyjabær (Westman Islands) and the stunning black sand beaches of Vik.
LOCATION: Hvassafell, Eyjafjöllum, 861, Iceland
Nailed It Fish and Chips
To my surprise, one of the best fish and chips I’ve ever had was from a humble food truck near one of Iceland’s top destinations, Jökulsárlón. Conveniently positioned for hungry travelers, this food truck serves up fresh cod that quite literally melts in your mouth.
Drench your fries in Iceland’s signature red salt for an extra burst of flavor!
LOCATION: Jökulsárlón, 781 Hornafjörður, Iceland
Gott
A visit to Vestmannaeyjar, or the Westman Islands, is highly recommended during your Iceland trip. Despite the ferry ride required to reach the islands, they offer a wealth of activities and stunning views worth the journey.
Gott, a vibrant family restaurant in the heart of Vestmannaeyjar, prides itself on inventive dishes made from fresh ingredients. We savored both the GOTT Grilled Burger and the Eldfell Burger—each bursting with flavor and freshness.
Chef Sigurður Gíslason, a former member of the Icelandic national culinary team, and his wife run this beloved establishment.
LOCATION: Bárustígur 11, Vestmannaeyjabær
Hafnarbuden
If you’re venturing to Höfn, a charming fishing town on southeastern Iceland, you’ve got to stop by Hafnarbuðin—a nostalgic diner you wouldn’t expect to find here. We tried American-style burgers and fries, which were surprisingly delicious, my burger topped with blue cheese while Adam’s had guacamole.
For dessert, you’ll even discover Icelandic-inspired milkshakes that are a delightful finish to your meal.
LOCATION: Ránarslóð 12, Höfn í Hornafjörður, Iceland
Asker Pizzeria
In Egilsstaðir, one of East Iceland’s largest towns, you’ll find Askur Pizzeria, known for its fire-baked pizzas with sourdough bases. With a varied menu, including Canadian-grade Hawaiian pizza, there’s something for everyone—vegan options included!
For those in the mood for a pint, there’s a craft brewery attached to the restaurant, making it a great spot to unwind.
LOCATION: Fagradalsdraut 25, 700 Egilsstaðir, Iceland
Island
When it comes to urban delight, I hold a special fondness for Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city, which boasts a multicultural atmosphere. Eyja, a contemporary wine bar and bistro run by a local couple, stands out with its innovative fusion dishes and impressive wine selection.
From cod with miso glaze to a nut steak drizzled with pomegranate and dill foam, their menu invites exploration. Consider opting for the three-course option for a memorable culinary experience.
LOCATION: Hafnarstræti 90, 600 Akureyri, Iceland
Café Riis Restaurant & Pizzeria
The Westfjords, with their staggering beauty, are a highlight of Iceland. Amidst this remote landscape, you’ll discover Café Riis, situated in Holmavik. This charming restaurant serves classic Icelandic dishes and inventive pizzas, such as a delectable langoustine pizza.
Nestled in Holmavik’s oldest building, dating back to 1897, this eatery has been a local favorite for nearly three decades.
LOCATION: Hafnarbraut 39, 510 Hólmavík, Iceland
Summary of the Best Restaurants in Iceland
- The Town’s Best Sausages
- Café Loki
- Friðheimar
- The Old Barn
- Nailed It Fish and Chips
- GOTT
- Hafnarbuden
- Asker Pizzeria
- Island
- Café Riis Restaurant & Pizzeria
Consider adding these highlights to your Iceland itinerary, whether you’re in the mood for something casual or a bit more upscale. If you’re on a budget, don’t overlook gas station eateries; these often serve surprisingly tasty fare at a reasonable price.
From juicy hot dogs to scrumptious burgers, we relished these options throughout our adventures. For more insights into our Icelandic travels, feel free to explore my YouTube vlogs documenting our week-long and two-week trips across this stunning land.
And if you’re eager for even more local activities and tours, don’t hesitate to check them out! Have you dined at any of these restaurants? I would love to hear your favorite Icelandic dining spots—reach out to me on Twitter or Instagram!
Plan Your Trip to Iceland
If you’re piecing together your Iceland itinerary, here are some additional posts to assist with your plans:
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