Signature Dishes and Traditional Foods

• Hákarl (fermented shark): Greenland shark meat fermented and dried for months, with a strong ammonia smell. A traditional preservation method, typically eaten with local liquor. Considered a challenge for adventurous eaters. Small sealed portions are available in supermarkets.
• Lamb hot dog: A staple at classic harbor-side hot dog stands, this national favourite features lamb sausage with raw and crispy onions and mustard. Priced around 800 ISK per hot dog, it’s often called “the best meal in Iceland.”
• Skyr yogurt: A thousand-year-old strained yogurt, high in protein and low in fat. Vanilla and blueberry are classic flavours. Large tubs from supermarkets are great for breakfast on road trips.
• Geothermal rye bread: Moist rye bread baked underground using geothermal heat for 24 hours, usually served with butter and smoked trout.
• Cod and lobster soup: Fresh cod fillet with sour cream sauce is a standout main dish; lobster soup (actually made with langoustine) in Höfn is a must-try stop on the Ring Road.
• Roast lamb leg: Grass-fed Icelandic lamb is tender and almost odourless, often served in autumn with caramelized root vegetables.

Recommended Dishes and Prices

• Restaurant meals: Main courses typically range from 3,500 to 7,000 ISK. Seafood restaurant meals average around $42–$56 per person, placing them among the most expensive globally.
• Hot dogs and pizza: Budget-friendly options, with meals at hot dog stands and American-style pizza shops costing 1,500–2,500 ISK per person.
• Supermarket cooking: Bonus (pink signage) and Kronan are the most affordable. A day’s worth of pasta, chicken breast, skyr, and bread can be bought for under 2,500 ISK.
• Local drinks: Free and delicious geothermal spring water is available everywhere. Beer was only legalized in 1989; craft breweries and Brennivín (Black Death schnapps) are both worth trying.

Where to Eat

• The area between Reykjavik’s harbour and main street is full of seafood restaurants, hot dog stands, and trendy New Nordic cuisine spots. Reservations are recommended for dinner.
• Gas station convenience stores along the Ring Road serve surprisingly good burgers and hot dogs—reliable for quick meals on the go.
• Höfn lobster soup, Vík’s mountain-view restaurants, and central Akureyri’s local eateries are three key culinary stops on your journey.

Practical Tips

• Dinner rush is between 18:00 and 21:00; book ahead at popular restaurants.
• Lunch specials are about 20–30% cheaper than dinner, offering a more affordable way to dine at top spots.
• Most hotels don’t include meals. Check for breakfast options when booking—hotel buffets are usually worth it.