BEST Restaurants In Iceland AND The TOP Food To Order
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Iceland’s ever-changing grandiose landscape usually takes most of the spotlight, but don’t let that fool you. The Icelandic menu deserves some of the shine as well. Featuring meals rarely found anywhere else in the world, these exotic Icelandic delights are the perfect pairing for the exotic Iceland landscape.
Iceland is a country of adventure, and the food is no different. While some of their dishes may sound off-putting, you may be pleasantly surprised if you’re willing to take a chance. As you may have heard, yes, they do have fish prepared in more ways than you can possibly imagine, but there is so much more to try. Be it the best restaurants in Reykjavik or the best restaurants in all of Iceland, the combinations of eclectic delicacies and homely comfort food will keep you guessing while asking for more.
1.) Grill Market
Reykjavik is known for having some of the best restaurants in Iceland, and Grill Market is right at the top. With your choice of a pleasantly classy upstairs, or you can descend the spiral staircase wrapped around a gorgeous light fixture to the wonderfully sociable downstairs. Both provide you with great atmospheres to enjoy your fantastic meal. Speaking of food, here you will find a menu showcasing the finer bits of Icelandic cuisine. Earthy dishes with a modern twist, such as grilled whale and horse tenderloin, are among the many delicacies Iceland is known for, and at Grill Market they’re done to perfection.
Price- $$$100 for a meal
Must Have- Grilled Puffin
Yes, it’s hard to imagine eating one of those cute and cuddly birds, but when you take that first bite, you will understand why other predators are keen on catching one of the little puffballs. Lean and juicy meat flawlessly grilled, tasting similar to a world class steak. All with a sweet berry sauce drizzled overtop, making this an unforgettable meal when in Iceland.
2.) Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur
You might not think of a hot dog stand as one of the best places to eat, but that just means you haven’t been to one in Iceland. Tucked between the buildings of downtown Reykjavik, this small stand, only big enough for two workers to snuggly fit inside, is famous for serving millions of dogs to all visitors of the island. Being such a popular spot the lines can get long, but thanks to the staff whipping up weiners with mechanical efficiency you will have your delicious Icelandic dog in no time.
Price- $5 for a meal
Must Have- A hot dog with everything
Using local nonconventional ingredients, these hot dogs are full of unusual and unique flavors. Lamb meat, crispy onions, mustard, remoulade sauce, and apple ketchup may look unappealing, but when it comes to the taste, there’s no question this is a must.
3.) Sæta Húsið
This small cafe connected to the Magic Ice Bar in the center of Reykjavik is packed with fantastic treats to get your day started. Known for their hand-rolled ice cream, this cafe is also home to many Icelandic favorites. A smorgasbord of breakfast sweets, energetic music, and a colorful interior make this fun spot the best breakfast restaurant in Reykajvik.
Price- $15 for a meal
Must Have- A bubble waffle with an assortment of toppings
A light, warm, and fluffy bubble waffle is tasty enough to be eaten by itself, but the cornucopia of add-ons puts this meal over the top. Feel free to mix and match any of the numerous sauces, spreads, fruits, even cereal and candy to create your own unique waffle monstrosity.
4.) Vik Soup Company
As you tour around southern Iceland, the town of Vik makes for the perfect place to stop and recharge, and there’s no better place in Vik than the Vik Soup Company. Connected to the live lava show, this lovely soup house provides a friendly cafe-like atmosphere. Serving up delicious sandwiches, in house drinks, and you guessed it, tons of soup!
Price- $25 for a meal
Must Have- Hot lava soup
Hearty and full of local meats and veggies with a bit of spice (nothing crazy), all served in a crunchy black bread bowl makes this the best soup in the country! Plus, you get a free refill!
5.) Aurora
Found in the quaint and quiet port town of Akureyri, this upscale spot is ideal for an evening meal or late night drink after taking in the one-of-a-kind scenery of Iceland. Enjoy the warm comfortable indoors or gather around the wood burning stove outside to watch the northern lights flash above. You will be treated to a collection of finely prepared Icelandic mainstays sure to be one of the best meals on your vacation.
Price- $$75 for a meal
Must Have- Reindeer Fillet
Extremely lean meat so tender it practically melts away with each bite. In addition to the rich smoky flavor, all dripping in a warm savory sauce makes this a one-of-a-kind meal you simply have to try.
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