Icelandic Food Beyond the Stereotypes
Reykjavik’s food scene has evolved dramatically — from a cuisine defined by survival preservation (fermented shark, dried fish, smoked lamb) to a modern restaurant culture that combines the traditional Icelandic ingredients (lamb, seafood, skyr, wild herbs) with contemporary Nordic culinary technique. A food tour navigates both — the traditional tastes (the fermented shark/hákarl that is Iceland’s most notorious food challenge, the lamb soup/kjötsúpa that is the national comfort dish, the hot dog/pylsur from the famous Bæjarins Beztu stand) and the modern restaurants where Icelandic chefs are producing some of the most creative food in Northern Europe.
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur — the iconic hot dog stand operating since 1937, serving Icelandic pylsur (a hot dog made from lamb, pork, and beef with crispy onions, raw onions, ketchup, sweet mustard, and remoulade). Arguably Iceland’s most famous food establishment.
Skyr — the thick, high-protein cultured dairy product that is Iceland’s most important food export. Technically a cheese (not a yoghurt, despite its yoghurt-like texture), skyr has been made in Iceland for over 1,000 years.
Lamb — Icelandic lamb (from sheep that roam freely on mountain pastures during summer, grazing on wild herbs and grasses) is considered some of the finest in the world — the flavour is clean, herbaceous, and distinctive.
Seafood — langoustine, Arctic char, cod, and haddock from the surrounding North Atlantic, prepared in traditional (dried, smoked, salted) and contemporary styles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to eat fermented shark?
No — but most food tours offer a taste as a cultural experience. The flavour is intense (ammonia-forward, chewy texture) and the tradition is genuinely interesting. A small cube with a shot of Brennivín (Icelandic caraway schnapps) is the traditional format.
How long is a Reykjavik food tour?
Typically 3–4 hours with 5–8 tasting stops, covering the old town, the harbour area, and the Hlemmur food hall.
Is Reykjavik food expensive?
Restaurant meals are expensive by international standards (a main course at a mid-range restaurant costs 3,000–6,000 ISK / $21–42 USD). The food tour format (multiple tastings included in one price) provides good value relative to individual restaurant visits.