Dining in the 'Land of Fire and Ice': Iceland's Top Food, From Hot Dogs to High Cuisine
As you plan your trip to the Land of Fire and Ice, complete with a Northern Lights chase and Blue Lagoon dip, don't overlook one of Iceland's most surprising attractions: its food. Forget the old tales of nothing but fermented fish; Iceland's modern culinary scene is a thrilling adventure for your taste buds. This guide will take you from legendary street food to innovative farm-to-table dining, proving that Iceland is a destination for food lovers.
The Unofficial National Dish: Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur
Before you do anything else, you must try an Icelandic hot dog, or pylsur. And the most legendary place to get one is from the humble Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur ("The Town's Best Hot Dogs") stand in downtown Reykjavik, which has been serving since 1937.
Photo by Jóhann Heiðar Árnason
What makes it so special? The hot dog itself is a blend of lamb, pork, and beef, giving it a rich, savory flavor. But the real magic is in the toppings. For the full, authentic experience, you must order it "eina með öllu" (one with everything). This gets you:
Ketchup
A sweet brown mustard called Pylsusinnep
Creamy remoulade
Crispy, deep-fried onions
Raw white onions
It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that has locals and tourists (including Bill Clinton) lining up in all weather.
Comfort Food, Icelandic Style
When you need to warm up after a day of exploring, nothing beats Iceland's traditional comfort foods.
🥣 Plokkfiskur (Fish Stew): This isn't just any fish stew. Plokkfiskur is a hearty, creamy blend of mashed fish (typically haddock or cod), potatoes, and onions. It's the ultimate Icelandic comfort dish, often served with dense, slightly sweet Icelandic rye bread (rúgbrauð) and a generous smear of butter.
🥛 Skyr: You may have seen skyr in your local supermarket, but you haven't truly had it until you've tried it in Iceland. This thick, protein-rich dairy product, technically a type of fresh cheese, has been a staple for over a thousand years. Enjoy it with milk and a sprinkle of sugar or topped with fresh Icelandic berries.
For the Adventurous Eater: Hákarl
Photo by Jóhann Heiðar Árnason
Yes, we have to talk about the fermented shark. Hákarl is a national dish with a notorious reputation due to its powerful ammonia-rich smell and taste. Greenland shark is cured, fermented, and hung to dry for four to five months. It's an experience, to be sure, and one that connects you directly to Iceland's Viking past when preserving food was a matter of survival. Pro Tip: Locals chase a small cube of hákarl with a shot of Brennivín, a potent Icelandic schnapps often called "Black Death." It's all part of the fun!
Innovation in a Greenhouse: The Friðheimar Experience
Photo by Leander
One of the most unique dining experiences in Iceland is at Friðheimar, a family-run tomato farm on the Golden Circle route. Inside a geothermally heated greenhouse, you can dine among the tomato vines themselves. The menu is a celebration of the tomato, featuring:
All-you-can-eat tomato soup with a buffet of freshly baked bread.
Tomato-based pasta dishes and fresh mussels.
Quirky delights like tomato ice cream, tomato beer, and a fantastic Bloody Mary.
It's a perfect example of how Icelanders use sustainable geothermal energy to innovate and create something truly special. Reservations are essential!
Reykjavik's Rise to High Cuisine
Iceland's culinary scene has evolved far beyond rustic traditions. Reykjavik is now home to several world-class restaurants, including some that have earned coveted Michelin stars. Establishments like Dill and ÓX showcase New Nordic cuisine, using hyper-local, seasonal Icelandic ingredients in creative and breathtaking ways. A meal at one of these restaurants is a celebration of Iceland's terroir, from wild herbs and foraged mushrooms to the freshest seafood imaginable.
Icelandic cuisine is a journey through its history, landscape, and innovative spirit. From a simple hot dog stand that has become a global icon to dining in a magical tomato greenhouse and tasting the creations of world-renowned chefs, there is a flavor for every traveler. So, be open, be curious, and most of all, be hungry. Craving more travel inspiration? Read other blog posts for global culinary guides and more!
#IcelandicCuisine #Reykjavik #FoodGuide #CulinaryTravel #StreetFood #FineDining #BudgetEats
📦 Key Takeaways
Diverse Cuisine: Iceland's food scene offers a surprising diversity, ranging from iconic street food to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Must-Try Street Food: The Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur hot dog (ordered 'with everything') is considered a mandatory cultural experience.
Traditional Comforts: Try heritage dishes like Plokkfiskur (fish stew) and skyr (Icelandic yogurt) for a taste of local tradition.
Unique Dining Experience: Book a table at Friðheimar's geothermal tomato farm for a unique farm-to-table meal.
Fine Dining: Reykjavik's high-end cuisine has earned international acclaim, making the city a destination for fine dining.
