Icelandic Food Adventures: From Fermented Shark to Skyr 🇮🇸🍽️

Iceland’s cuisine is as dramatic and unique as its landscapes—think steaming geothermal pools, towering glaciers, and volcanic terrains. From the infamous fermented shark (hákarl) to the beloved skyr, Icelandic food tells a story of survival, tradition, and innovation. Whether you’re a daring foodie or a comfort food lover, Iceland offers a culinary journey like no other.

In this guide, we’ll explore:
✔ Traditional Icelandic dishes you must try
✔ Where to find authentic Icelandic food in Reykjavík and beyond
✔ The history behind Iceland’s unique flavors
✔ Must-try desserts and drinks
✔ FAQ about Icelandic cuisine

Ready to dive in? Let’s go!

🍖 Traditional Icelandic Dishes You Must Try

1. Hákarl (Fermented Shark) 🦈

Hákarl is Iceland’s most notorious dish—fermented Greenland shark, known for its strong ammonia smell and acquired taste. Vikings developed this method to make the otherwise toxic meat edible.

• How it’s made: The shark is buried underground for 6-12 weeks, then hung to dry for months.
• Taste: Intensely fishy, with a sharp, lingering aftertaste.
• Where to try: Café Loki (Reykjavík) or the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum (Snæfellsnes Peninsula).
• Pro tip: Chase it with a shot of Brennivín (Icelandic schnapps) to cut the taste!

2. Plokkfiskur (Fish Stew) 🐟

A comforting blend of cod, potatoes, onions, and béchamel sauce, plokkfiskur is Iceland’s answer to fish pie.

• Best enjoyed: With rye bread and butter.
• Where to try: Icelandic Street Food (Reykjavík) or homemade versions in local cafés.

3. Hangikjöt (Smoked Lamb) 🐑

This slow-smoked lamb is a Christmas favorite but available year-round. The meat is traditionally smoked using sheep dung or birch wood (!) for a unique flavor.

• How to eat: Sliced cold with flatkaka (Icelandic flatbread) or in sandwiches.
• Where to try: Kaffivagninn (Reykjavík’s oldest restaurant).

4. Svið (Sheep’s Head) 🐏

Yes, you read that right—a boiled sheep’s head, complete with eyes and brain. A Viking-era dish, it’s now a rare but traditional meal.

• How it’s served: Halved or whole, often with mashed turnips.
• Where to try: Þrír Frakkar (Reykjavík) or local festivals.

5. Harðfiskur (Dried Fish) 🎣

Iceland’s version of jerky—wind-dried cod or haddock, eaten as a snack with butter.

• Why try it? High in protein, low in fat, and surprisingly addictive!
• Where to buy: Any Icelandic supermarket (Bonus or Kronan).

6. Pylsur (Icelandic Hot Dog) 🌭

Iceland’s national fast food—made with lamb, pork, and beef, topped with crispy onions, remoulade, ketchup, and mustard.

• Best spot: Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur (Reykjavík), loved by Bill Clinton!

7. Skyr (Icelandic Yogurt) 🥛

A creamy, protein-packed dairy product, skyr is technically a cheese but eaten like yogurt. Flavors range from blueberry to licorice.

• Best brands: Siggi’s (internationally available) or Arna (Icelandic brand).

📍 Where to Eat Authentic Icelandic Food

Reykjavík’s Best Food Spots

✔ Þrír Frakkar – Traditional Icelandic dishes (try the whale steak).
✔ Café Loki – Classic plates like rye bread ice cream and fermented shark.
✔ Icelandic Street Food – Budget-friendly lamb soup & fish stew.
✔ Kol Restaurant – Modern Icelandic cuisine with a gourmet twist.

Beyond Reykjavík

✔ Vík’s Black Crust Pizzeria – Lamb pizza with local ingredients.
✔ Hver Restaurant (Hveragerði) – Geothermally cooked dishes!

🍰 Icelandic Desserts & Drinks

1. Rúgbrauð (Dense Rye Bread) 🍞

Baked underground using geothermal heat, this sweet, dark bread is often served with butter or smoked salmon.

2. Kleinur (Icelandic Doughnuts) 🍩

Twisted, fried dough—perfect with coffee.

3. Brennivín (Black Death Schnapps) 🥃

A caraway-flavored liquor, traditionally drunk with hákarl.

4. Malt & Appelsín (Christmas Soda) 🎄

A mix of malt beer and orange soda—Iceland’s festive drink!

❓ FAQ About Icelandic Food

1. Is Icelandic food expensive?

Yes, eating out can be pricey due to imports. Save money by shopping at Bonus supermarket or trying street food.

2. What’s the weirdest Icelandic food?

Hákarl (fermented shark) or svið (sheep’s head) top the list!

3. Do Icelanders eat whale meat?

Yes, but it’s controversial. Try it at Þrír Frakkar if curious.

4. Is Skyr vegan?

Traditional skyr is dairy-based, but vegan versions exist.

5. What’s a must-try Icelandic dessert?

Rye bread ice cream—sounds odd, tastes amazing!

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Adventure!

Icelandic cuisine is a mix of survival food, Viking heritage, and modern creativity. Whether you’re sampling fermented shark or indulging in creamy skyr, each bite tells a story.

Pro tip: Join a food tour in Reykjavík for the full experience!

Have you tried Icelandic food? What was your favorite dish? Share below! 👇😋

By following this guide, you’ll not only satisfy your taste buds but also gain a deeper appreciation for Iceland’s rich culinary culture. Skál! (Cheers!) 🍻