Private Food Walking Tour in Reykjavik

Exploring Reykjavik’s Food Scene: A Detailed Review of the Private Food Walking Tour

Travelers looking to truly taste Reykjavik often find that a guided food tour is the best way to go beyond the usual and discover authentic local flavors. This particular private walking tour, offered by Your Friend In Reykjavik, promises a three-hour journey through the city’s culinary highlights, from traditional hot dogs to fermented shark. The tour’s consistently high rating of 5.0 from 128 reviews, with 96% recommending it, suggests it’s a popular choice among food lovers and curious adventurers alike.

What we really love about this experience is the intimate, personalized approach. Since it’s a private tour, you get the undivided attention of your guide—usually someone extremely knowledgeable and full of stories. Plus, the variety of tastings, from Icelandic shellfish soup to local snacks and unique delicacies, offers a genuine taste of what life is like for locals. One potential consideration is the price—at just over $200 per person, it’s an investment, but many reviewers feel the value far outweighs the cost.

This tour is best suited for adventurous eaters, cultural explorers, and those eager to get a taste of Reykjavik’s personality through its food. It’s ideal for first-timers or repeat visitors wanting an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at Icelandic cuisine. If you’re a foodie or simply curious about local traditions, this walk will satisfy your appetite for both history and flavor.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: As a private tour, it offers a tailored, engaging way to explore Reykjavik’s culinary spots.
• Authentic Tastings: From hot dogs to fermented shark, you get to try some of Iceland’s most iconic and adventurous local foods.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers consistently praise guides like Olaf, Ester, and Gandar for their friendly, insightful commentary and humor.
• Cultural Insights: The tour combines food with snippets of Iceland’s history and culture, making it both tasty and educational.
• Convenient Locations: Stops include key landmarks like Ingólfur Square, Reykjavik harbor, and Hallgrimskirkja church, making the experience easy to follow.
• Flexible and Inclusive: It’s suitable for most travelers and offers options for alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks to celebrate your culinary journey.

The Full Breakdown: What to Expect on Your Tour

Starting at Ingólfur Square

Your adventure kicks off in the heart of Reykjavik, at Ingólfur Square. Marked by iconic stone pillars reminiscent of the island’s original settlers, this spot is a meaningful place to begin. It’s a peaceful, historic setting that instantly connects you to Reykjavik’s roots. From here, your guide will probably introduce you to some Icelandic history, setting the tone for the tour’s cultural layer.

Reykjavik Harbour & Shellfish Soup

Next, you’ll wander down to Reykjavik’s lively harbor area, a hub of activity and fresh seafood. The highlight here is a warm serving of shellfish soup, a local specialty packed with fresh, local ingredients. Reviewers loved the way this dish set the tone for the tour, describing it as a “great appetizer” and a window into Iceland’s maritime heritage.

The Hot Dog Stand: Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

No Reykjavik food experience is complete without a stop at the famous hot dog stand, Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur. Here, you’ll sample a traditional Icelandic lamb hot dog—something many visitors rave about. As one reviewer notes, “Beware of copycats,” because this stand’s hot dogs are considered by many as the best in town. Expect a quick, casual tasting that packs a lot of flavor and cultural significance into a single bite.

Icelandic Snacks at the Supermarket

A visit to a local supermarket provides a fascinating glimpse into everyday Icelandic food. You’ll see snacks, candies, and unique local ingredients that aren’t usually found outside of Iceland. This stop offers a relaxed opportunity to browse and learn about what Icelanders snack on—sometimes surprising, sometimes familiar.

The Flea Market at Kolaportið

If your tour falls on a weekend, you’ll enjoy a stroll through Kolaportið, Reykjavik’s beloved flea market. Here, local vendors sell everything from vintage clothes to traditional foods, including dried fish, fermented shark, and other Icelandic delicacies. This market is a highlight for many reviewers, who love the authentic, bustling atmosphere. Keep in mind it’s only open Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 5 pm, so timing is key if this is a must-see for you.

Finale at Dass Restaurant

The tour culminates at Dass Reykjavik, a charming spot near Hallgrimskirkja church. Here, you’ll get the chance to try several Icelandic delicacies, notably Hakarl (fermented shark). While this may be intimidating for the unadventurous, reviewers say it’s a must-try—fascinating and surprisingly palatable when guided by someone knowledgeable about the best way to eat it. To toast the conclusion of your culinary journey, you can choose between a non-alcoholic or alcoholic drink—many opt for the local Icelandic beer or the signature Black Death snapshot.

What’s Included and How It Works

The tour runs about three hours, covering approximately six stops. It’s entirely private, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a comfortable pace and personalized commentary. Pickup options are available, and the tour’s flexible nature means you’ll get tailored recommendations for the rest of your stay in Reykjavik.

Real Experiences from Reviewers

Many guests praise the guides, like Olaf and Ester, for their depth of knowledge and warm personalities. One reviewer mentions that their guide even took them to a supermarket to examine local foods, providing a deeper understanding of Icelandic eating habits. The stories and humor shared by guides like Gandar and Stefan make the experience not just educational but genuinely entertaining.

Several reviews highlight the value of tasting Icelandic specialties like smoked puffin or lamb tartar. And yes, the fermented shark often gets a mixed review—some find it surprisingly pleasant, while others admit it’s an acquired taste. The consensus is that this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Reykjavik that’s hard to replicate on your own.

Addressing Practicalities

The tour’s price, around $208 per person, might seem high at first glance. However, considering the variety of tastings, the personalized attention, and the insider insights, many find it worthwhile. It’s a chance to sample several dishes in one go, saving you the hassle of hunting down these spots yourself.

It’s worth noting that the tour is suitable for most travelers, with most reviews emphasizing guides’ friendliness and knowledge. The tour is accessible, and the group size is small, which enhances the experience—great for those who prefer more intimate settings.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Reykjavik food tour is a delightful way to combine culture, history, and a hefty dose of Icelandic flavor. The guides’ genuine warmth and extensive knowledge turn each stop into a story, and the tastings give you a true sense of local life. Whether you’re a foodie eager to try daring dishes like fermented shark or someone simply wanting an authentic introduction to Iceland’s culinary traditions, this experience has a lot to offer.

While the price might give some pause, the reviews support that this is a high-value, immersive experience—perfect for those keen on authentic, personalized explorations. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and food, and aren’t afraid of trying something new.

In short, this tour is a tasty, insightful, and memorable way to spend a few hours in Reykjavik—an excellent choice for anyone wanting a deeper connection to Iceland’s local flavors.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with food allergies?
The tour focuses on Icelandic delicacies, many of which are seafood and meat-based. It’s best to contact the provider directly to discuss dietary restrictions, but most tastings are quite traditional and may not cater to vegetarians.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately three hours, covering around six stops with plenty of time for tasting and learning.

Can I join if I am traveling alone?
Yes. Since it’s a private tour, you’ll join only your group, whether it’s a couple, family, or friends.

Is transportation provided between stops?
No, the tour is on foot, allowing you to explore Reykjavik’s city center closely and absorb the atmosphere.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers all tastings, guide services, and in some cases, a drink at the final stop. Pickup options are also available.

Do guides share local tips and recommendations?
Absolutely. The guides are praised for their friendliness and helpful suggestions for the rest of your trip—restaurants, bars, or activities.

Is the fermented shark really as bad as it sounds?
Many reviewers say it’s an acquired taste but worth trying at least once. Guides usually teach the best way to eat it for a more pleasant experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and dress for the weather, as most of the tour is outdoors.

In sum, this private food tour offers an engaging, authentic taste of Reykjavik, blending cultural stories with traditional Icelandic dishes. It’s perfect for curious, adventurous travelers who want to deepen their appreciation of Iceland’s unique culinary heritage—all in a relaxed, friendly setting.