Food & Dining in Reykjavík

Good to Know

• Reykjavik's dining is generally expensive; eating out costs significantly more than in most Western countries due to import costs. Budget restaurants still average ISK 1,500–3,500 per main course; lunch specials offer better value than dinner.
• Supermarkets do not sell alcohol—you must visit Vinbudin (state-run liquor stores) for beer, wine, and spirits.
• Restaurant lunch menus are typically 30–50% cheaper than dinner menus at the same restaurant. Many places offer set lunch specials for ISK 1,000–2,500.
• Icelandic hot dogs from Bæjarins Beztu are iconic but modest in quality; the experience and history matter more than the food itself.
• Traditional Icelandic cuisine is meat- and fish-heavy; vegetarian and vegan diets are well accommodated in the city despite this heritage.
• Downtown Reykjavik and the Harbor area (Grandi) have the highest concentration of restaurants and food options within walking distance. Shopping and dining options thin out quickly outside these zones.
• Food delivery apps (Wolt, BOLT, Aha) are convenient but add delivery fees; eating in at a restaurant or buying takeout directly is often cheaper.
• Rye bread (rúgbrauð) appears everywhere and is worth trying—it's a staple that tastes quite different from regular bread.
• Skyr is extremely affordable in supermarkets and a genuine staple—eating it daily as breakfast is normal. Far cheaper than buying at restaurants.
• Fermented shark (hákarl) is polarizing; tourists often try it for the experience. It smells and tastes intense. Not necessary to experience authentic Icelandic food.