Iceland may be known for its breathtaking landscapes, but the food here is just as adventurous as its nature. Icelandic cuisine is deeply rooted in the country’s rugged environment, with a focus on seafood, lamb, and dairy. The produce is fresh, and thanks to the country’s geothermal energy, there are plenty of locally grown vegetables and herbs. If you’re a foodie traveler, Iceland has a lot to offer, from hearty traditional dishes to modern takes on local ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes in Iceland
Hákarl
Let’s start with the most infamous dish: Hákarl. This fermented shark is a traditional Icelandic food that has a strong smell and an even stronger flavor. It’s one of those you-should-try-it-once experiences, but for many, once is enough. It’s often served in small cubes alongside a shot of Brennivín, also known as the Black Death, which is a local schnapps. It may not be for everyone, but it’s deeply embedded in Icelandic culture.
Lamb Soup (Kjötsúpa)
If you’re looking for something more comforting, try Kjötsúpa. This is a hearty lamb soup filled with root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions. The lamb in Iceland is incredibly tender and flavorful because the animals graze freely on wild grass and herbs. This soup is perfect for warming up after a day of exploring the Icelandic landscape.
Skyr
Skyr is Iceland’s superfood. It’s a thick, creamy dairy product that is somewhere between yogurt and cheese. It’s high in protein and low in fat, making it a popular choice for breakfast or a snack. You can find Skyr in a variety of flavors in grocery stores or order it fresh at cafes. It goes great with berries, honey, or even just enjoyed on its own.
Plokkfiskur
Plokkfiskur is traditional Icelandic comfort food—a fish stew made with white fish like cod or haddock, along with potatoes, onions, and a creamy white sauce. It’s simple yet delicious and highlights the freshness of Iceland’s seafood. You’ll often see this dish in homes and on menus at local restaurants. It’s usually served with rye bread and butter, so you can soak up all that creamy goodness.
Lamb
Lamb is a cornerstone of Icelandic cuisine, and for a good reason. Icelandic lamb is pasture-raised in the wild, which gives it a unique flavor that is both earthy and slightly gamey. Roast lamb (Kjötkál) is another national favorite, often served with potatoes and gravy. Don’t miss trying smoked lamb sandwiches (Hangikjöt) as well, an Icelandic holiday staple that you can find year-round at certain cafes and bakeries.
Seafood
Fresh Seafood
It’s no secret that Iceland’s seafood is world-class. Fishing is one of the country’s largest industries, and the result is extremely fresh and high-quality fish on your plate. Cod, haddock, and Arctic char are must-haves. Look for restaurants or places by the ocean where the seafood is fresh off the boat. Whether it’s grilled, fried, or even made into sushi, you won’t be disappointed.
Langoustine
Icelandic langoustines are small, lobster-like shellfish, known for their sweet meat. Grilled or served in a creamy soup, this is one of the must-try dishes here. Some of the best langoustine can be found in restaurants along the south coast, particularly in the town of Höfn, which is famed for its seafood.
Street Food and Quick Bites
Icelandic Hot Dog (Pylsur)
The Icelandic hot dog is a local favorite and a must-try for any visitor. Icelandic lamb makes these hot dogs unique. Topped with raw onions, crispy onions, mustard, ketchup, and a remoulade sauce, it’s an affordable and delicious snack. The place to go for this is Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur in Reykjavík, where locals and tourists alike line up to grab one of these tasty dogs.
Flatkaka with Toppings
This is a traditional Icelandic flatbread, usually served with butter and smoked lamb (hangikjöt). It might not look fancy, but it’s incredibly satisfying and reflects the simple, hearty roots of Icelandic cooking. Many locals eat this for breakfast or as a snack.
Fish & Chips
You can’t go wrong with a serving of fish and chips when you’re in Iceland. Freshly battered cod or haddock with crispy fries is easy to find in coastal towns or even food trucks around Reykjavík. It’s comfort food, Iceland-style.
Regional Specialties
Rye Bread (Rúgbrauð)
Rúgbrauð is a dark, dense rye bread that is traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat. You’ll see it served alongside many meals, especially with fish or lamb stew. Some restaurants even offer it with sweet toppings like butter and jam.
Brennivín
Brennivín is Iceland’s signature schnapps, made from fermented potatoes and flavored with caraway. It’s the most iconic drink in Iceland, often referred to as the “Black Death” because of its strong flavor. It’s a bit of an acquired taste, but you’ve got to at least try it once. Traditionally it’s sipped alongside a plate of Hákarl.
Where to Eat in Iceland
Local Markets
If you’d like to experience some of the freshest ingredients Iceland has to offer, head over to a local market. Kolaportið flea market in Reykjavík is where you’ll find fresh fish, dried cod, and other local delicacies. It’s a good place to sample traditional bites like fermented shark or dried fish snacks.
Cafes and Bakeries
For quick snacks or breakfast, look for local cafes and bakeries. They’re often filled with the smell of fresh Icelandic pastries like kleina (a type of fried dough) and siddluspjall (cinnamon buns). Grab some rye bread sandwiches or Skyr with berries for a light meal on the go.
Fish Houses
If you’re a seafood lover, look out for fish houses or restaurants focused on locally caught fish. You can find them in most cities and coastal towns. Grásköggull and Messinn in Reykjavík are some popular choices for seafood. Ask for the fish of the day or specials featuring Arctic char or cod.
Fine Dining
Iceland has seen a rise in high-end dining over the past few years. Restaurants like Dill in Reykjavík highlight innovative uses of fresh, seasonal ingredients and take Icelandic cuisine to the next level with creative dishes. While fine dining in Iceland can be pricey, the experience of locally sourced dishes with modern techniques is worth every króna.
Practical Tips for Dining in Iceland
Iceland isn’t a budget destination, whether you’re eating at a street food stall or a high-end restaurant. Eating out can be expensive, so plan accordingly. If you want to save money, grocery stores like Bonus and Kronan are good places to grab Skyr, flatkaka, and snacks for picnics.
Also, don’t forget that tipping isn’t required in Iceland. While it’s appreciated, service charges are included in the prices. The water is top-notch, so don’t waste your money on bottled water. Tap water in Iceland is some of the best in the world, straight from the country’s natural springs.
Final Thoughts
From fermented shark to creamy lamb soup, Iceland offers a wide range of flavors for the adventurous foodie. Whether you’re eating fresh seafood by the coast or trying street food in the city, the dishes showcase the country’s pure ingredients and deep cultural roots. Eating in Iceland might not be the cheapest, but it’s an essential experience for anyone visiting.
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