Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour – Icelandic Traditional Food

Taking a culinary walk through Reykjavik with the Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour promises an engaging, authentic taste of Icelandic cuisine. This small-group experience, often booked weeks in advance, invites you to explore the city’s best eateries while learning about its food culture from experienced guides. What makes this tour special? It’s the combination of delicious local dishes, informative storytelling, and the chance to uncover some hidden culinary treasures that many visitors might miss on their own.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is the personalized vibe fostered by small groups limited to 12 people, which encourages genuine conversations and tailored insights. On the flip side, while the tour is packed with memorable food stops, it’s worth noting that it doesn’t include hotel transportation, so planning your logistics is still necessary. Perfectly suited for curious food lovers and those eager to go beyond the typical sightseeing, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Reykjavik’s rich, sometimes surprising, culinary traditions.

Key Points

• Authentic Icelandic cuisine: Sample everything from seafood to fermented shark.
• Small-group intimacy: Limited to 12 travelers for a more personal experience.
• Educational and fun: Guides share stories and culinary insights, making the experience both tasty and informative.
• Diverse stops: From historic eateries to local markets and iconic hot dog stands.
• Value for money: Includes food tastings, water, and drinks, often exceeding expectations for quantity and quality.
• Weather-proof: Operates in all conditions, so dress appropriately.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Point: Ingólfur Square

The tour kicks off at Ingólfur Square, right in the heart of Reykjavik. This spot, easy to reach via public transportation, is where your journey into Icelandic cuisine begins. The walkable, central location makes it ideal for those arriving on foot or via local buses. Meeting there five minutes early is recommended to kick off on time.

Seabaron: Seafood Starters

Your first stop is Seabaron, located near the old harbor, known for serving top-notch Icelandic shellfish. The Icelandic shellfish soup here is a highlight — a warm, inviting bowl packed with fresh seafood flavors that showcase Iceland’s rugged coastline. One reviewer noted, “You really should try out Icelandic seafood while in Iceland,” emphasizing that this is a must-try for seafood lovers. Since seafood is a significant part of Icelandic cuisine, this first taste sets the tone for the tour—fresh, local, and flavorful.

Kolaportið: A Market for Traditional Icelandic Foods

If your visit coincides with a weekend, this stop is particularly special. The Reykjavik Flea Market, inside Kolaportið, remains open Saturdays and Sundays, offering a lively, authentic marketplace experience. Here you’ll discover some genuinely traditional Icelandic foods, from dried fish to unique candies. Reviewers mentioned that exploring this market was a highlight, with one noting it’s “all kinds of very traditional Icelandic Foods.” It’s a chance to get a feel for local life and maybe pick up some snacks or souvenirs.

Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: The Iconic Hot Dog

No Icelandic food tour would be complete without a visit to Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, the city’s legendary hot dog stand since 1937. The Icelandic lamb hot dog here is a beloved icon — a quick, satisfying bite that many reviewers raved about. One reviewer called it “the original one,” and it’s evident that this stand holds a special place in locals’ hearts. It’s a perfect snack to keep you energized for the rest of the tour.

Icelandic Street Food: Lamb Soup & More

The next stop introduces you to Icelandic Lamb Soup, a dish often described as “Iceland in a bowl.” It’s hearty, comforting, and deeply rooted in local tradition. Alongside this, you’ll sample other traditional foods, giving you a well-rounded understanding of Icelandic flavors. Reviewers have said the soup is a true representation of Iceland’s culinary identity, and they appreciated the opportunity to taste it fresh and hot.

A Taste of Iceland: Snacks & Candies

At a local delicacy store called Taste of Iceland, you’ll get a peek at Icelandic snacks, candies, and jams. One guest mentioned the crowberry jam as a “must-try,” highlighting how certain local products become memorable souvenirs. It’s a quick stop, but one that offers a wide range of traditional treats that add a sweet contrast to the savory dishes.

Dass Reykjavik: Finish with Fermented Shark & Toasts

The tour culminates at the Dass Restaurant, near Hallgrimskirkja church, where you’ll sample several Icelandic delicacies, including the infamous fermented shark (Hakarl). Many travelers find this the boldest part of the experience — a true test of adventurous eating. Reviewers describe trying Hakarl as “an experience,” often paired with Icelandic drinks like a local beer or Black Death snaps. The guide usually encourages toasting to the trip’s end, making it a convivial finish. The notable mention of Magnús, who was praised for his friendliness and knowledge, underscores the importance of a guide who can make even the most challenging foods approachable.

What You’ll Gain from This Tour

Authentic Local Flavors

Throughout the tour, you’ll sample a variety of foods that reveal Iceland’s culinary landscape, from seafood and lamb to traditional candies and fermented shark. Many reviewers, like Lucas and Jennifer, appreciated the variety, noting everything was delicious and unique. The emphasis on local ingredients and traditional recipes means you’re getting genuine tastes rather than touristy facsimiles.

Knowledgeable Guides & Stories

Guides such as Magnús, Stefán, and Páll stand out for their enthusiasm and storytelling. One reviewer mentioned how Magnús, who is the 26th generation in his family, shared fascinating insights about Icelandic culture. Others appreciated how guides explained not just what they were eating but the story behind each dish, making the experience richer and more memorable.

Flexibility & Convenience

The tour covers a broad time window of about 2.5 to 3 hours and offers multiple start times, making it easy to fit into most schedules. The small group size enhances interaction and comfort, especially when trying more challenging foods like Hakarl. Although it doesn’t include hotel pickup, the central meeting point in Ingólfur Square is accessible, and the tour operates in all weather conditions — so dress warmly for rain or wind.

Value for Money

For $137.87 per person, the tour includes all food tastings, water, and an alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink to toast your culinary journey. Reviewers repeatedly noted that the portion size exceeded expectations, with some describing themselves as stuffed by the end. Given the quality and variety of foods, many found it a worthwhile expense — especially considering that Icelandic food prices are high, making sampling here a cost-effective way to try many dishes.

The Downside: Things to Consider

While most reviews are glowing, a few travelers pointed out that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, which might require extra planning if you’re staying farther from the meeting point. Also, some dishes like fermented shark might not suit everyone’s taste, especially for those with more delicate palates or dietary restrictions. The price may seem high for some, but considering the quality and variety of food, many see it as good value.

A small number of reviews mention that they were disappointed they didn’t get to try certain foods, like the lamb soup, due to scheduling or timing issues. It’s worth arriving on time and understanding that the tour’s focus is on tasting a broad range of Icelandic foods rather than a full meal at each stop.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a foodie keen to discover Icelandic cuisine, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy storytelling and learning about local culture as they eat. With its small-group format, it’s ideal for those who prefer intimate experiences and the chance to ask questions directly to guides.

It’s also a good pick for adventurous eaters willing to try some bold dishes like fermented shark or smoked lamb tartare. For families, especially those with kids who are not overly picky, guides like Stefán have been praised for making the experience engaging for children. However, those with strict dietary restrictions or very limited time may want to consider whether a full day of culinary exploration is feasible.

Final Thoughts

The Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour offers a compelling combination of delicious food, cultural insights, and friendly guides. It’s a chance to sample some of Iceland’s most iconic dishes while enjoying local stories. The tour’s small group size makes it personable and interactive, and the variety of stops ensures you leave with a broad understanding of Icelandic cuisine.

For travelers wanting an authentic taste of Reykjavik’s food scene without the hassle of figuring out where to go or what to try, this tour delivers real value and memorable flavors. It’s especially suited for those who love tasting new foods and learning about local traditions from passionate guides.

If you’re looking for a fun, tasty, and educational introduction to Icelandic cuisine, this tour is hard to beat. Just be prepared for some bold flavors, and bring your appetite!

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins at Ingólfur Square. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What should I wear?
The tour runs in all weather conditions, so dress warmly and in layers, especially if it’s windy or rainy.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the group and stops.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers all food tastings, water, and a choice of alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks.

Can I customize dietary restrictions?
The tour host tries to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies, but it’s best to inform them at booking.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children are welcome if accompanied by an adult. The guides are known for engaging kids with stories and interactive tasting.

What are the cancellation policies?
You can cancel free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

In summary, the Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour is a fantastic way to gain a genuine taste of Icelandic culture through its cuisine. With expert guides, a relaxed pace, and a variety of dishes, it offers great value for anyone eager to learn about local flavors in a fun, friendly setting. It’s an experience that leaves many visitors craving more of Iceland’s culinary delights.