If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, you’ll quickly discover the country’s food scene is as unique as its landscapes. At least that is what we found. From cosy bowls of fish stew after a day in the Westfjords to lobster pizza in a South Coast fishing village, eating here is an adventure in itself. Icelandic cuisine draws on centuries-old traditions shaped by isolation and survival, then adds modern creativity from a new generation of chefs.
On this trip, you might start with plokkfiskur, a creamy fish stew, or hangikjöt, the smoky lamb often served at Christmas. You’ll find pylsur, the famous Icelandic hot dogs, in both city streets and remote gas stations, while rúgbrauð (rye bread) bakes underground in hot springs. Fresh catches like humar (lobster) and Arctic char showcase the island’s pristine waters, and treats like homemade Icelandic ice cream or tangy skyr give a sweet finish to any day.
Our guide takes you through the most iconic and delicious Icelandic foods to try, from hearty farmhouse favourites to inventive dishes in Reykjavík’s buzzing food scene.
Top Iceland Foods at a Glance
- Plokkfiskur – Creamy fish stew served with dark rye bread
- Hangikjöt – Smoked lamb, often a Christmas tradition
- Pylsur – Icelandic hot dogs with fried onions and remoulade
- Humar – Sweet lobster tails from the South Coast
- Rúgbrauð – Rye bread baked in hot springs
- Skyr – Thick yogurt eaten at breakfast or in desserts
Why Iceland’s Food Scene is Unique
Iceland’s volcanic soil, cold seas, and geothermal resources have shaped its cuisine for over a thousand years. Farming is limited, so lamb, dairy, and seafood became staples. Geothermal greenhouses now grow vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers year-round, while the surrounding ocean provides cod, haddock, and Arctic char. The result is a blend of traditional recipes, often born out of necessity, and modern dishes inspired by global culinary trends.
One night you might tuck into lamb soup at a mountain hut; the next, you’re sipping craft beer with langoustine tacos in Reykjavík. For a true Iceland foodie experience, try both ends of the spectrum.
1. Pylsur – Famous Icelandic Hot Dog
What it is:
Pylsur are Iceland’s famous hot dogs, made from a blend of lamb, pork, and beef. They’re served in a bun with raw onions, crispy fried onions, tangy mustard, sweet ketchup (made with apples), and creamy remoulade.
Why try it:
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