Reykjavik Street Food & Markets: A Family Foodie Adventure in 2026
Reykjavik, Iceland, might be known for its stunning landscapes and Northern Lights, but its vibrant street food scene and bustling markets offer a delicious adventure for families. From traditional Icelandic fare to international flavors, there's something to satisfy every palate. In this guide, we'll explore the best places to eat like a local, navigate the markets, and discover hidden culinary gems in Reykjavik. Get ready for a tasty journey!
Street Food Hotspots in Reykjavik
Reykjavik's street food scene is concentrated in a few key areas, making it easy to hop from one delicious bite to the next. Downtown, the Old Harbour, and Laugavegur are your best bets for finding a variety of options.
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur (Downtown)
No trip to Reykjavik is complete without trying a pylsur, Iceland's famous hot dog. Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, meaning "The Best Hot Dog in Town," has been serving up these treats since 1938. This unassuming stand is a local institution.
- Must-Try: Pylsur with "everything" (pylsur með öllu): a lamb-based hot dog served in a warm bun, topped with crispy fried onions, raw white onions, sweet brown mustard (pylsusinnep), and ketchup.
- Price: Approximately 650 ISK (around $5 USD).
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Unfortunately, no dedicated vegetarian or vegan options here, but you can ask for it without the sausage.
- Hygiene: This is a popular stand with a high turnover, so hygiene standards are generally good.
- How to Order: Just say "eina með öllu" (one with everything).
- Local Eating Customs: Don't be afraid to load up on toppings! It's perfectly acceptable to eat standing up right next to the stand.
- Insider Tip: Go during off-peak hours (before noon or after 2 PM) to avoid long lines.
Reykjavik Fish & Chips (Old Harbour)
Located right by the harbor, Reykjavik Fish & Chips offers fresh, sustainable seafood prepared with a modern twist.
- Must-Try: Traditional fish and chips with homemade tartar sauce. Try the cod or haddock.
- Price: Around 2200 ISK ($16 USD) for a portion of fish and chips.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: They do have some interesting sides and starters like deep fried cauliflower that are great for sharing.
- Hygiene: Clean and well-maintained establishment.
- How to Order: Specify the type of fish you want.
- Local Eating Customs: Enjoy your fish and chips with a view of the harbor.
- Insider Tip: Ask about the catch of the day for the freshest option.
The Icelandic Bar (Ingólfsstræti 1a, Downtown)
While technically a restaurant, The Icelandic Bar offers a unique street food experience with its "Icelandic Tapas" menu, allowing you to sample a variety of local delicacies in small, shareable portions.
- Must-Try: The Icelandic Gourmet Feast (Hákarl, dried fish, rye bread ice cream)
- Price: Small plates range from 1800-3500 ISK ($13-25 USD).
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Limited options, but they offer some vegetable-based dishes.
- Hygiene: Restaurant standards.
- How to Order: Order several plates to share and sample different flavors.
- Local Eating Customs: Trying fermented shark (Hákarl) is a must for adventurous eaters!
- Insider Tip: Go during happy hour (typically 4-7 PM) for discounted drinks and appetizers.
Lamb Street Food (Tryggvagata 20, Old Harbour)
This food truck specializes in slow-cooked lamb dishes, a staple of Icelandic cuisine.
- Must-Try: Lamb shoulder sandwich with pickled red cabbage and Skyr sauce.
- Price: Around 2000 ISK ($14 USD).
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Limited vegetarian options.
- Hygiene: Food truck standards, generally well-maintained.
- How to Order: Point to the item you want on the menu.
- Local Eating Customs: Enjoy your sandwich while strolling along the harbor.
- Insider Tip: Check their social media for daily specials and locations.
Hlemmur Mathöll (Laugavegur)
Hlemmur Mathöll is an indoor food hall offering a wide range of cuisines, from Icelandic to Vietnamese to Mexican. It's a great option for families with diverse tastes.
- Must-Try:
- Braud & Co: Sourdough bread and pastries
- Fuego Taqueria: Authentic Mexican tacos
- Price: Varies depending on the vendor, but expect to pay around 2500-4000 ISK ($18-28 USD) per person for a meal.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available at various vendors.
- Hygiene: Food hall standards, generally very clean.
- How to Order: Order directly from each vendor.
- Local Eating Customs: Grab a seat at one of the communal tables and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
- Insider Tip: Try the local craft beers available at the bar.
Reykjavik Markets: A Feast for the Senses
Reykjavik's markets offer a glimpse into local life and a chance to sample fresh produce, artisanal goods, and traditional Icelandic products. Here's a guide to the must-visit markets:
Kolaportið Flea Market (Old Harbour)
Kolaportið is Iceland's largest indoor flea market, open every weekend. It's a treasure trove of second-hand clothing, books, antiques, and, most importantly, food!
- Hours: Saturday and Sunday, 11 AM - 5 PM.
- Best Time to Go: Early in the day for the best selection.
- What to Buy:
- Harðfiskur (dried fish): A traditional Icelandic snack.
- Rúgbrauð (rye bread): A dense, dark bread baked in geothermal heat.
- Skyr: Icelandic yogurt.
- Handicrafts: Woolen sweaters, mittens, and other handmade items.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Limited prepared food options, but you can find fresh produce and bread.
- Hygiene: Market standards, some vendors offer samples, but exercise caution.
- How to Order: Bargaining is not common, but you can always ask for a better price.
- Local Eating Customs: Sample the local delicacies and chat with the vendors.
- Insider Tip: Try the fermented shark (Hákarl) at your own risk!
Farmers Market at Harpa Concert Hall (Austurbakki 2, Old Harbour)
During certain times of the year, a farmers market is held at the Harpa Concert Hall, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and other artisanal products.
- Hours: Check local listings for dates and times.
- Best Time to Go: During the market hours.
- What to Buy:
- Local produce: Seasonal fruits and vegetables.
- Icelandic cheeses: Sample a variety of local cheeses.
- Jams and preserves: Homemade jams and preserves.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available.
- Hygiene: High standards.
- How to Order: Purchase directly from the vendors.
- Local Eating Customs: Support local farmers and producers.
- Insider Tip: Ask the vendors about their products and how they are made.
Reykjavik Street Food Crawl: A Walking Tour
Here's a suggested walking route for a delicious street food crawl in Reykjavik's downtown and Old Harbour area:
- Start: Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur (Downtown) - Grab a pylsur with "everything."
- Walk: Head towards the Old Harbour (approx. 5-10 minutes).
- Stop: Reykjavik Fish & Chips (Old Harbour) - Enjoy some fresh fish and chips with a view of the harbor.
- Walk: Stroll along the harbor towards Tryggvagata (approx. 5 minutes).
- Stop: Lamb Street Food (Tryggvagata 20, Old Harbour) - Indulge in a slow-cooked lamb sandwich.
- Walk: Continue towards Ingólfsstræti (approx. 10 minutes).
- Stop: The Icelandic Bar (Ingólfsstræti 1a, Downtown) - Sample Icelandic tapas and try the fermented shark (if you dare!).
- Walk: Head back towards Laugavegur (approx. 5 minutes).
- Stop: Hlemmur Mathöll (Laugavegur) - Explore the various food stalls and choose your favorite dish.
- End: Enjoy your meal at Hlemmur Mathöll and relax after your culinary adventure.
Food Souvenirs to Bring Home
Don't forget to bring home some edible souvenirs to remind you of your Icelandic adventure:
- Harðfiskur (dried fish): A unique and traditional Icelandic snack.
- Rúgbrauð (rye bread): A dense, dark bread baked in geothermal heat.
- Icelandic chocolate: Try Omnom Chocolate, a local artisanal chocolate maker.
- Skyr: Icelandic yogurt.
- Salt from Saltverk: Geothermally produced sea salt.
Food Tours and Cooking Classes
For a more immersive culinary experience, consider taking a food tour or cooking class:
- Reykjavik Food Walk: A guided tour that takes you to several local restaurants and food stalls, allowing you to sample a variety of Icelandic dishes.
- Salt Eldhús Cooking School: Learn to prepare traditional Icelandic dishes in a hands-on cooking class.
Eating Customs and Hygiene Tips
Here are some tips to help you navigate the Reykjavik street food scene and markets with confidence:
- Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Iceland.
- Payment: Credit cards are widely accepted.
- Hygiene: Most food vendors maintain high hygiene standards, but it's always a good idea to wash your hands before eating.
- Language: English is widely spoken, but learning a few basic Icelandic phrases is always appreciated.
- Be adventurous: Don't be afraid to try new things! Icelandic cuisine is full of surprises.
Enjoy Your Culinary Journey!
Reykjavik's street food and markets offer a delicious and authentic way to experience Icelandic culture. From the iconic pylsur to the diverse offerings at Hlemmur Mathöll, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So, grab your family, put on your walking shoes, and get ready for a culinary adventure in Reykjavik!