Reykjavik holds culinary pleasures both high and low. Many local spots serve up hearty Icelandic meat stew, made with lamb, potatoes, carrots and lots of herbs. Seek out creamy lobster stew and locally caught langoustine tails. And don't miss out on the national street food: the Icelandic hot dog. Reykjavik is a city that has a lot of culture and cuisine to offer to its visitors. You can taste some of the local specialties and dishes that reflect its diverse and multicultural influences, such as:
- Hot dogs: These are not your ordinary hot dogs, but made from a blend of lamb, beef, and pork. They are served with crunchy deep-fried onions, raw onions, ketchup, and a sweet mustard sauce. You can find them at street stalls or service stations, but the most famous one is Baejarins Beztu Pylsu on Tryggvagata 1
- Fish and humar: Humar is the Icelandic word for lobster, but it is actually a type of langoustine that is smaller and sweeter than the regular lobster. You can find fresh fish and humar at many restaurants in Reykjavik, such as Lóa Restauran on Laugavegur 95-99, which offers a cozy atmosphere and traditional Icelandic food.
- Skyr: This is a dairy product that is similar to yogurt, but thicker and creamier. It is high in protein and low in fat, and comes in various flavors such as plain, vanilla, or berry. You can eat it as a snack or dessert, or use it as an ingredient in cakes or smoothies. You can find skyr at supermarkets or cafes, such as Cafe Loki on Lokastigur 28, which also serves other Icelandic delicacies such as rye bread ice cream and fermented shark.
- Brennivin: This is a type of liquor that is made from potatoes and flavored with caraway seeds. It is also known as "black death" because of its strong taste and alcohol content. It is usually served chilled and in small shots, often accompanied by a bite of fermented shark or dried fish. You can try brennivin at bars or pubs, such as Kaldi Bar on Laugavegur 20b, which has a selection of local beers and spirits.
These are just some of the many cuisines and gastronomies that you can experience in Reykjavik. You can also learn more about the city's food and culture by joining a food tour which will take you to some of the best restaurants and markets in Reykjavik.
