Iceland Food


Seafood lovers will be in heaven in Iceland. For the best of the best, head for the small fishing villages along the coast. There, you can get simple plates in a cozy atmosphere and discover the true flavors of the country.

Though the country is famed for attention-getting dishes such as fermented shark and sheep’s head, the attention should be focused on the true star of Iceland’s culinary success: its farm-fresh ingredients, dairy products, and historic cooking and preservation techniques. While you’re there, here are a few things to be sure to try.

Geothermally cooked rye bread

However you choose to eat it - topped with smoked salmon and cream cheese, blended with ice cream, or simply with some butter slathered on top - this sweet, dense rye bread is an Icelandic staple.

Skyr (yogurt)

Possibly the most beloved of all Icelandic food, this Greek-yogurt-like dairy product is scrumptiously satisfying - and also healthy! Made of pasteurized skimmed milk and a bacteria culture found only in Iceland, Skyr (pronounced SKEE-R)is every local's favorite breakfast or snack.

Plokkfiskur (fish stew)

This classic dish is a hearty bowl of Iceland's freshest and most delicious ingredients. Think: white fish (haddock or cod), potatoes, yellow onion, pepper, butter - sometimes even chives, curry, or cheese! Each chef has his or her own way of making this local favorite.

Hákarl (shark)

This unique dish is an Icelandic tradition! If you're brave enough, give Hákarl a try. When else will you get the chance?

Harðfiskur (fish jerky)

Literally translating to "hard fish," harðfiskur is a dried fish snack that has a historic love/hate relationship with locals. The perfect post-hike go-to!

Pylsur (hot dogs)

Icelanders are serious about their dogs! Not only are they made with the usual pork and beef, they're also made with lamb! Reykjavik's famous Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur has been in business for over 60 years and is known to be Iceland's hot-dog-hot-spot. Order yours with everything: crispy onions, sweet brown mustard, and a creamy remoulade!

Klenät (pastry)

Like most Icelandic food, Kleina has been passed down from Scandinavia and other Nordic countries. This vanilla doughnut-like pastry is served at every holiday, at every coffee shop, and at every grandmother's house.

Lamb

Whether you're looking for a juicy chop or going all-in on the smoked sheep's head, you're in for a treat. Icelandic lamb is renowned for being the best in the world, so don't miss your chance to sink your teeth into some meaty goodness while you're there!

Ice Cream

Icelanders love ice cream and as soon as you sample your first cone, you'll see why! Grab a chocolate-dipped soft serve at a gas station, vegan gelato in Reykjavik, or head over to Iceland's all-time favorite ice cream shop, Ísbúð vesturbæjar, for an ice cream cone for the books.

Back to How to Sell Iceland


Create Account

The contact email is associated with an existing account, please sign in to continue.
If you have a password, you can use it below. If you don't have an account, you can request one today.