What to Eat in Reykjavik: The Ultimate Icelandic Food Tour for First-Time Visitors

Adventures of Matt & Nat
5 hours ago
10 min read

If you’re wondering what to eat in Reykjavik, you’re not alone. Icelandic food has a reputation, but the fastest way to understand both the culture and the climate is through its traditional dishes. And just like Iceland’s landscapes, the food is unlike anywhere else we’ve ever been.

On our recent trip to Reykjavik, we set out on a self-guided food tour with one goal in mind: to try the most iconic traditional Icelandic foods. From familiar staples like skyr, hot dogs, and rye bread to more adventurous dishes like dried fish and fermented shark, this food tour was equal parts comforting, surprising, and challenging in the best way.

In this guide, we’re sharing exactly what to eat in Reykjavik, where to find these traditional Icelandic foods, and what makes each one worth trying (or at least understanding). Whether you’re a first-time visitor planning your trip or simply curious about Icelandic cuisine, this guide is designed to help you eat your way through Iceland’s capital with confidence.

Grab a fork… and maybe an adventurous palate — and let’s dig in!

⬇️ Want to see this food tour in action? ⬇️

For a closer look at our experience (and our honest reactions),

watch our Reykjavik Food Tour video on YouTube!

⬇️ Looking for more ways to explore? ⬇️

Check out GetYourGuide for the best experiences in Reykjavik and beyond! From guided food tours and distillery tastings to whale watching cruises and hot springs — all bookable in advance with flexible options!

⬇️ Where to Stay in Reykjavik ⬇️

Whether you’re visiting Reykjavik for a few days or using it as a home base for exploring Iceland’s South Coast and Golden Circle (like we did), the city offers a great range of hotels for every budget. Here are three excellent options to consider, including where we stayed.

Luxury: The Reykjavik EDITION

📍 Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland

👉🏻 Book your stay at The Reykjavik EDITION

If you’re looking for a luxury stay with a modern, design-forward feel, The Reykjavik EDITION is one of the most upscale hotels in the city. Located right on the harbor, this five-star property offers sleek rooms, high-end amenities, and beautiful views — all within walking distance of Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, Harpa Concert Hall, and downtown dining scene. With an on-site spa, multiple bars and restaurants, and a refined but relaxed atmosphere, it’s a great choice if you want to splurge and stay somewhere that feels polished and distinctly Reykjavík.

Mid-Range: Skuggi Hotel by Keahotels — Where we stayed!

📍 Hverfisgata 103, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland

👉🏻 Book your stay at Skuggi Hotel by Keahotels

Skuggi Hotel by Keahotels is a fantastic mid-range option that balances comfort, style, and location. The hotel features modern, minimalist rooms inspired by Iceland’s dramatic landscapes, along with a cozy lobby and daily breakfast. Its location made it an easy and convenient home base — close to restaurants, cafés, and many of the food stops on this guide, while still feeling quiet at night. If you want a well-located, comfortable stay without the luxury price tag, this is a great pick.

Budget: CityHub Reykjavik

📍 Hverfisgata 46, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland

👉🏻 Book your stay at CityHub Reykjavik

CityHub Reykjavik is a great budget-friendly option for travelers who value location and efficiency over extra space. The hotel offers compact, pod-style rooms with smart controls, comfortable beds, and shared bathrooms — all designed with a modern, tech-forward feel. Located right in the city center, it puts you within walking distance of Laugavegur, food halls, and many major sights. It’s an excellent choice if you plan to spend most of your time out exploring and want an affordable, central place to sleep.

Or Find Your Perfect Stay Using the Map Below

If you prefer to explore more options, use the interactive map below to search for hotels by location, price, and amenities. It’s an easy way to compare different stays across Reykjavik and find one that fits your travel style and budget.

1. Skyr (Icelandic Cultured Dairy)

Cost: $3–$12 USD | Where to Try: Bakeries, cafés, grocery stores

Skyr is one of Iceland’s most famous foods, and while it looks like yogurt, it’s is technically a cultured dairy product that’s strained until thick and creamy, resulting in something richer and more filling than traditional yogurt. It’s high in protein, lightly tangy, and incredibly versatile. You’ll find Skyr served plain, topped with berries and nuts, blended into desserts, or even used as a base for ice cream! It’s been a staple of Icelandic diets for over a thousand years, dating back to the Viking Age, and today, it’s just as popular as ever.

Tip: Try Skyr, both sweet and plain. The unflavored versions really let the texture and tang shine.

Sandholt Reykjavik bakery exterior with sign and window display. A hand holds a yogurt cup topped with granola on a blurred street background.

2. Kleinur (Icelandic Twisted Donut)

Cost: $2–$4 USD | Where to Try: Sandholt, BakaBaka, & Deig

Kleinur are traditional Icelandic twisted donuts — lightly crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and gently flavored with cardamom. More of a sweet bread than a donut (IMO), but they’re not overly sweet, which makes them a great option to pair with a cup of coffee or tea. Kleinur are best enjoyed fresh, so if you can, ask which ones were baked that morning. We, unfortunately, didn’t ask this question and were served a mediocre representation of what a Kleinur should be, so… Don’t make the same mistake we did!

Tip: Kleinur should be soft and tender, not dense or dry. Always ask which ones were baked that morning — freshness makes a huge difference here.

Cafe facade with sign "Brennslan" on a gray building. Adjacent image shows two brown pastries on a white plate, suggesting a cozy atmosphere.

3. Pylsur (Icelandic Hot Dog)

Cost: $6–$8 USD | Where to Try: Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur or Víkinga Pylsur

The Icelandic hot dog (AKA pylsa) is legendary. Made primarily from lamb, but often mixed with pork and beef, it’s served in a soft bun and topped with a signature combination of raw onions, crispy fried onions, sweet brown mustard, ketchup, and remoulade. It’s one of the most popular street foods in Iceland, eaten by locals and visitors alike, and you’ll see people grabbing one at all hours of the day. The most famous hot dog stand in the city, Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, reportedly serves 2,000 to 3,000 per day!

Tip: Order it “with everything” — that’s the classic way to do it.

People wait at a red hot dog stand labeled Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur. A person holds two hot dogs with mustard on the right.

4. Hákarl (Fermented Shark) &

Brennivín (Icelandic Schnapps)

Cost: $5–$15 USD | Where to Try: Íslenski Barinn, Café Loki, or Three Coats

This is Iceland’s most infamous pairing — and easily one of the most unique food experiences you’ll have anywhere in the world.

Hákarl is fermented Greenland shark, a process that dates back centuries. Because fresh Greenland shark meat is actually toxic, it has to be cured and fermented for several months to make it safe to eat. Traditionally, the shark was buried underground or hung to dry, allowing strong compounds to break down over time. The result is small cubes of meat with a powerful aroma and a flavor that’s… unmistakable. Think very strong, ammonia-forward cheese meets the ocean. It’s intense, and definitely not for everyone.

Hákarl is almost always served alongside Brennivín, Iceland’s signature schnapps, nicknamed “Black Death.” The name comes from a combination of its high alcohol content, its strong, bracing flavor, and its original black label, which was intentionally designed to look unappealing when Iceland banned beer and tightly restricted alcohol marketing in the early 20th century. The nickname stuck, and today it’s worn almost like a badge of honor. Made from fermented grain or potato and flavored with caraway, Brennivín is sharp, herbal, and unapologetically bold. Historically, it wasn’t meant to be sipped casually; it was a practical companion to strong-tasting preserved foods like hákarl, helping cut through the intensity and make the experience more manageable.

This pairing isn’t about indulgence or comfort. It’s about tradition, survival, and preserving food in one of the harshest environments on earth. Even many Icelanders will tell you it’s something you try once… mostly for the story.

Tip: Don’t smell the hákarl before tasting it — trust us. Just pop it in, chew it 5-7 times, swallow, and chase it with the Brennivín.

Exterior of The Icelandic Bar with red chairs and black awnings. Person holding fermented shark cube on toothpick, red nails visible.

5. Harðfiskur (Dried Fish Snack)

Cost: $5-$10 USD | Where to Try: Íslenski Barinn, Café Loki, or Three Coats

Harðfiskur is dried fish (most commonly cod or haddock), and it’s been an essential Icelandic snack for centuries. Originally created as a way to preserve fish without refrigeration, it’s lightweight, shelf-stable, and packed with protein, which made it especially practical in a country where fishing has always been central to daily life.

Texture-wise, it’s chewy and firm (almost like chewing wet cardboard, lol), and flavor-wise, it’s mildly fishy but not overpowering. It’s traditionally eaten with a generous layer of butter spread on top, which softens the texture slightly and adds richness. Think of it less as a gourmet snack and more as Iceland’s version of jerky: simple, functional, and rooted in the country’s fishing heritage. It’s the kind of food locals grow up eating, even if it’s not something every visitor will fall in love with.

Tip: Don’t skip the butter! It genuinely makes all the difference.

Exterior of The Icelandic Bar with red chairs; plate of dried fish and butter on a wooden table inside. Nordic ambiance.

6. Traditional Icelandic Soups & Stews

Cost: $20–$30 USD | Where to Try: Icelandic Street Food

If there’s one category of food that feels especially practical in Iceland, it’s soups and stews. Built to warm you up after cold, windy days, these dishes are hearty, comforting, and filling — the kind of food that makes sense given Iceland’s climate. Soups and stews have long been a part of Icelandic home cooking, made with local ingredients and designed to nourish rather than impress. While they may not be the most exciting dishes you’ll try in Iceland, they’re reliable, satisfying, and a great way to experience the country’s seafood and lamb in a low-risk, approachable way. We particularly liked the Lamb Soup at Icelandic Street Food.

Popular varieties include:

– Lamb soup: made with slow-simmered lamb, root vegetables, and herbs

– Fish stew: creamy, rich, and packed with fresh local fish

– Shellfish soup: often lobster-based, indulgent, and deeply savory

Tip: Many places offer soup samplers, which is a great way to try more than one.

7. Rúgbrauð (Icelandic Rye Bread)

Cost: $3–$7 USD | Where to Try: Brauð & Co, Sandholt Bakery, or Icelandic Street Food

Rúgbrauð is a dense, dark rye bread with a slightly sweet flavor and a soft, almost cake-like texture. Traditionally, it was baked underground using geothermal heat — buried near hot springs and left to slowly cook over many hours, which is why it’s sometimes called “volcano bread.” Because it’s so filling and shelf-stable, rúgbrauð has long been a practical staple in Icelandic diets. Today, it’s most commonly served sliced thin with butter, paired with smoked fish, or alongside soups and stews (as you’ll find at Icelandic Street Food). It’s not flashy, but it’s one of those foods that helps you understand how Icelanders have historically cooked with the land and resources available to them.

Tip: If you see rúgbrauð baked the old-fashioned geothermal way, try it! We hear that the slow cooking brings out a deeper sweetness and richer flavor.

Fish Stew garnished with herbs in a gray bowl, accompanied by dark brown rye bread slice on a matching plate. Dark, cozy setting.

8. Arctic Char (Traditional Icelandic Fish)

Cost: $30–$60 USD | Where to Try: Reykjavik Fish, Íslenski Barinn, or Messinn

Arctic char is one of Iceland’s most well-known fish and a staple on menus throughout the country. It’s closely related to salmon and trout, but has a milder, cleaner flavor and a more delicate texture. Thanks to Iceland’s cold, pristine waters, the fish is incredibly fresh, which allows it to be prepared simply without needing heavy sauces or seasoning.

You’ll often see Arctic char pan-seared, lightly smoked, or cured, and served with minimal accompaniments like vegetables, potatoes, or a simple butter or herb sauce. It’s a dish that reflects Icelandic cooking as a whole — letting high-quality ingredients speak for themselves.

While it’s typically one of the pricier items on a menu, Arctic char is a reliable choice if you’re looking for something traditionally Icelandic that still feels approachable and familiar, especially if you enjoy salmon but want something a little lighter.

Tip: If Arctic char is on the menu, it’s a safe bet, especially at restaurants that focus on local seafood.

Restaurant menu on a wall beside a skillet of fish and veggies with sauce. A glass of beer labeled "LITE" is in the background.

9. Icelandic Fish & Chips

Cost: $25–$35 USD | Where to Try: Reykjavik Fish

Fish and chips might not sound uniquely Icelandic, that is, until you try it! Thanks to Iceland’s access to incredibly fresh cod and haddock, the fish itself is light, flaky, and consistently high quality. But what really sets Icelandic fish and chips apart is the batter. Instead of a heavy, beer-based batter, many Icelandic spots use a thinner mixture — often made with spelt flour and carbonated water, which creates a crisp, delicate coating that’s almost tempura-like. The lighter batter lets the flavor of the fish shine through, rather than overpowering it, and keeps the dish from feeling greasy or heavy. You’ll often see fish and chips served with house-made sauces instead of traditional tartar sauce (we especially loved the skyr-based tartar at Reykjavik Fish), and while it’s still comfort food at heart, it feels cleaner and more refined than many versions you may be used to. If you want something familiar that still highlights the country’s excellent seafood, it’s a must-order!

Tip: Look for places that list the catch of the day. Freshness matters here more than anything else.

Reykjavik Fish restaurant exterior with a red "Fish & Chips" sign. Plate of fish and chips with tartar sauce, and a Viking beer on a table.

10. Ice Cream

Cost: $7–$15 USD | Where to Try: Valdís

Yes, Icelanders eat ice cream year-round — even in freezing temperatures — but it’s less about the weather and more about tradition. Ice cream has long been a popular, affordable treat in Iceland, and many locals grow up grabbing a cone no matter the season. It’s cozy, familiar, and very much part of everyday life.

Skyr-based ice cream is especially popular, offering a rich, creamy texture with a subtle tang that keeps it from feeling overly sweet. We especially liked the Raspberry Skyr! Licorice-flavored ice cream is another uniquely Icelandic favorite, sometimes blended with chocolate or vanilla, sometimes on its own. It’s bold, polarizing, and surprisingly addictive once you get past the first bite.

You’ll also often see rye bread ice cream, which might sound unusual but actually makes a lot of sense in Iceland. Inspired by rúgbrauð (Icelandic rye bread), this flavor is slightly sweet, mildly spiced, and often includes bits of bread or caramelized crumbs. It’s earthy, subtle, and a really interesting way to try a classic Icelandic staple in dessert form.

Tip: If licorice feels intimidating, start with skyr or rye bread ice cream. Both are uniquely Icelandic but much more approachable for most palates

Two hands hold ice cream in front of a bright blue "Valdís" shop. One cone and one cup are in focus. Pink and blue decor.

And that’s how you eat your way through Reykjavik!

From comforting classics to some of the most unique foods in the world. We hope this guide helps you feel confident (and hungry) as you explore Iceland’s capital, and maybe even inspires you to try something a little outside your comfort zone.

Thanks so much for reading and following along on our adventures! For more food tours, travel guides, and bucket-list experiences, be sure to follow us on Instagram, and don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, where we share travel guides, food tours, and bucket-list experiences from around the world!