Best Restaurants in Akureyri: Fine Dining, Cheap Eats, and Local Favorites

Discover the top restaurants in Akureyri, Iceland’s “Capital of the North.” Whether you’re looking for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, these are the go-to places for your North Iceland adventure. Read on and find where to eat in Akureyri!

Akureyri is one of the best places in North Iceland to experience Icelandic cuisine, with a diverse dining scene. Many of the best Akureyri restaurants are located in the compact downtown area, within walking distance of popular accommodations and top things to do, making it easy to enjoy great meals without traveling far.

Whether you’re joining Akureyri tours or exploring independently with one of the many rental cars in Iceland, the town offers plenty of excellent dining options before or after a day of sightseeing, from relaxed cafes to memorable dinner spots.

As the largest town in North Iceland, Akureyri is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region, and its restaurants are a welcome stop at the end of a day on the road.

Travelers can browse car rentals in Akureyri or choose self-drive tours with accommodations and a set itinerary, then return to town for dinner after visiting highlights like Lake Myvatn and the Trollaskagi Peninsula.

For those who prefer not to drive, guided tours also depart directly from Akureyri, offering nature-focused sightseeing and seasonal experiences led by local experts, so you can be back in town in time for dinner.

This guide covers where to eat breakfast, lunch, or dinner in Akureyri, helping you plan your stay with ease while exploring the top things to do in the area. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a refined dining experience after a long day of adventure, you’ll find plenty of excellent options in Akureyri.

Key Takeaways

• Akureyri has a diverse food scene with options for all tastes and budgets.

• Top picks include North Restaurant for an Icelandic tasting menu, Rub23 for sushi and seafood, Eyja Vinstofa & Bistro for wine and shared plates, and LYST for a relaxed meal in the Botanical Garden.

• Casual favorites like Greifinn, Akureyri Backpackers, and Bautinn offer comfort food like pizzas, burgers, and fish and chips.

• International cuisines are well represented, with Thai at Krua Siam and Indian at Indian Curry House.

• Popular brunch spots include Cafe Berlin and Kaffi Ilmur, and Blaa Kannan Cafe is a classic stop for coffee, cake, and light meals.

• Most restaurants are centrally located and walkable from Akureyri landmarks like the church and harbor.

• Reservations are recommended at popular spots like North Restaurant, Rub23, Strikid, and Mulaberg Bistro & Bar, especially during peak travel seasons.

Best Places To Eat in Akureyri

Akureyri is home to several of the best places to eat along the Ring Road, with excellent options for lunch or dinner after a day of exploring. These restaurants range from casual family dining to a chef-led tasting menu.

8. Greifinn

Greifinn is a popular restaurant in Akureyri, known for its wide-ranging menu that combines Icelandic favorites with international comfort food. The offerings include pizzas, grilled burgers, premium meats, and seafood dishes, all at moderate prices.

The restaurant has a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, with a dedicated kids’ menu and high chairs that make it especially convenient for families traveling with children. Among the most popular dishes are the lamb bearnaise and the hot wings, while lighter options such as fresh salads and soups are also available.

With friendly service and consistently reliable food, Greifinn is a solid choice for casual dining in Akureyri. It can get busy during peak hours, so booking a table in advance is recommended, particularly on weekends and holidays.

Greifinn Address

Glerargata 20, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Directions to Greifinn

Greifinn is easy to reach from most central points in Akureyri, about a 15-minute walk from Akureyrarkirkja Church, the town’s best-known landmark. Parking is available nearby if you’re driving.

7. Mulaberg Bistro & Bar

Mulaberg Bistro & Bar is located in the historic Hotel Kea in downtown Akureyri. The restaurant serves modern French-Nordic cuisine, with a menu built around seasonal ingredients from North Iceland. The cocktail bar also won Iceland’s People’s Choice award at the 2023 Bartenders’ Choice Awards.

The dinner menu ranges from small plates like smoked Arctic char and garlic-chili prawns to larger dishes featuring cod, duck, lamb, and steak. Vegetarian choices include hummus, falafel, and stuffed zucchini. The kitchen recommends ordering two to four dishes, which is a good way to sample different flavors.

If you have time for a longer dinner, choose the four-course tasting menu or let the kitchen surprise you with six courses.

The midday menu is more relaxed, with dishes such as steak frites, salmon, and confit duck leg. The bar also serves local craft beers and wine, with happy hour daily from 4 PM to 6 PM.

Mulaberg Bistro & Bar attracts hotel guests and other visitors, so reservations are recommended at Mulaberg, especially during busy travel periods. Mulaberg is a Guide to Iceland VIP Club partner, so members get 15% off everything, including food and drinks.

Mulaberg Bistro & Bar Address

Hafnarstraeti 87-89, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Directions to Mulaberg Bistro & Bar

Mulaberg is inside Hotel Kea on Hafnarstraeti Street, Akureyri’s main shopping street, a three-minute walk from Akureyrarkirkja Church.

6. Centrum Kitchen & Bar

Centrum Kitchen & Bar is a trendy restaurant inside the Centrum Hotel and is one of the more fun places for dinner in Akureyri. The menu features classic burgers, tacos, and standout mains like beef tenderloin and Arctic char.

One favorite dish is the langoustine pasta, which fully justifies a visit on its own. To accompany your meal, Centrum offers a selection of signature cocktails, making it an ideal spot to start your night out.

Known for its vibrant setting and reliable menu, it’s a great place to unwind and enjoy a casual meal or drink. Remember to book your table at Centrum beforehand so you don’t miss out.

Centrum Kitchen & Bar Address

Hafnarstraeti 102, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Directions to Centrum Kitchen & Bar

Centrum is located along Akureyri’s main shopping street. You can easily find it near the Akureyri Church and the Akureyri Town Square (Radhustorg), a lively spot with shops and cafes.

5. Strikid

Strikid has remained one of the most popular restaurants in Akureyri for around 20 years. It offers some of the best views of the neighboring fjord, which you can enjoy with a great meal. If the weather allows, you can even dine out on the balcony!

They focus on using fresh, high-quality ingredients but draw inspiration from cuisines worldwide. The menu of Strikid features grilled beef tenderloin, salmon, and, of course, unmissable Icelandic lamb. You can also try their tasty chuck burger or choose from the great sushi selection.

We especially recommend going for a few of their small dishes to share or enjoying the three-course offer. You have two options for each course, and it’s an excellent value for the price.

The restaurant’s popularity means it can fill up quickly, so it’s best to reserve a table at Strikid in advance to ensure availability.

Strikid Address

Skipagata 14, 5th floor, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Directions to Strikid

Strikid is easy to find near Akureyri’s main shopping street, just a short walk from the iconic Hof Concert Hall. The restaurant’s central location also makes it an easy dinner stop after a day exploring the best places to visit in North Iceland.

4. Rub23

Rub23 is one of the obvious answers to the question, “Where should I have dinner in Akureyri?” This vibrant red restaurant is located along one of the main streets of Akureyri, just across from Akureyrarkirkja Church and Hotel Kea.

Rub23 focuses on fresh seafood, offering a variety of sushi and fish dishes, alongside excellent steaks for meat lovers. For those feeling adventurous, their omakase tasting menus are highly recommended, with six or ten courses chosen by the chefs and served for the whole table to share.

Rub23 is one of the most popular restaurants in Akureyri, so we recommend booking a table at Rub23. It’s the best way to ensure availability, so you won’t face the frustration of arriving and finding it fully booked!

Local tip: If you want to try the famous sushi but are craving nothing more than crashing on your cozy hotel bed after a long drive, Rub23 has a takeaway counter inside the Kronan Supermarket on Tryggvabraut, open daily from 8 AM to 9 PM. You can pick up your order while shopping for groceries for your trip!

Rub23 Address

Kaupvangsstraeti 6, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Directions to Rub23

Rub23 is on Kaupvangsstraeti Street, a two-minute walk from Akureyrarkirkja Church and a one-minute walk from the Akureyri Art Museum. If you’re near the church, just cross the street, and you’ll see the red exterior.

3. Eyja Vinstofa & Bistro

Eyja Vinstofa & Bistro is a cozy wine bar and bistro on Hafnarstraeti Street in downtown Akureyri. A young local couple opened it in the spring of 2022, and it has since become a local favorite for an evening of wine and shared plates.

This is the go-to place for wine lovers. The wine list changes every week, and the wines open by the glass each night are written on the chalkboard. Cocktails, beer, and spirits are also available, and happy hour runs from 4 PM to 6 PM.

The kitchen focuses on small plates for sharing, such as baked shrimp with garlic and chili, tuna sashimi, and baked Gullostur cheese with honey. For something more filling, choose grilled beef tenderloin with chimichurri, cod fillet with the house Eyja sauce, or a cauliflower steak.

We recommend the three-course menu, which costs 12,500 ISK (about 105 USD) per person and finishes with a fantastic creme brulee. Guide to Iceland customers can also enjoy 10% off the three-course menu at Eyja. It's a good idea to book a table at Eyja in advance to secure your spot.

Eyja Vinstofa & Bistro Address

Hafnarstraeti 90, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Directions to Eyja Vinstofa & Bistro

Eyja is in the town center, a two-minute walk from the Akureyri Art Museum and three minutes from Akureyrarkirkja Church. From the Town Square, simply follow Hafnarstraeti Street until you reach number 90.

2. North Restaurant

For those seeking an authentic fine dining experience in North Iceland, there’s no finer option than North Restaurant.

This place opened in 2022 as a passion project of chef Gunnar Karl Gíslason, best known for earning Iceland its first Michelin star at Dill, the renowned restaurant in Reykjavik and one of the best restaurants in Iceland.

North is located on the ground floor of Hotel Akureyri Skjaldborg, a historic 4-star hotel with views of the Eyjafjordur Fjord. It’s one of the most unique and inspired restaurants in Iceland, centered around celebrating Icelandic ingredients, especially those originating from the surrounding region.

There’s no menu at North. Instead, a single tasting menu is served with a series of small dishes that complement each other. You can either go for just the food or enjoy it with a wine pairing, which we highly recommend for the whole North experience.

Even though the food is ambitious and a work of art in its own right, the atmosphere is very relaxed and cozy. The service is excellent, but you don’t have to worry about things like which fork to use. You can simply enjoy an incredible dinner without too much formality.

North is open for dinner from Wednesday to Saturday. Seating is limited, and this is a very popular place, so it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to get a table without booking. Make sure to book your table at North Restaurant in Akureyri with a few weeks’ notice so you don’t miss out on this truly incredible culinary experience.

North Restaurant Address

Hafnarstraeti 67, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Directions to North Restaurant

North Restaurant is easy to find near Akureyri’s scenic harbor, just a short walk from Akureyri Church. You’ll enter the lobby of Hotel Akureyri Skjaldborg, and find the restaurant down the hallway to the left.

1. LYST

LYST is a popular cafe and restaurant in Akureyri, set within the Akureyri Botanical Garden. The space is bright and welcoming, with large windows looking out over the surrounding greenery, and outdoor seating is available when the weather allows. It’s a relaxed spot for brunch, lunch, or a quiet coffee break while exploring the town.

The menu focuses on good-quality coffee, pastries, and simple lunch dishes made with care. Their sourdough breads with various toppings are particularly popular, including the smoked char with cream cheese and capers, as well as vegetarian options such as avocado spread or date jam served with hummus and olives.

During the day, LYST serves its popular fish soup and a range of lunch dishes at reasonable prices. From Thursday to Saturday evenings, the atmosphere becomes more laid-back, with smaller plates and a thoughtfully chosen selection of natural wines, making it a nice place to wind down after a day of sightseeing.

The cozy atmosphere pairs perfectly with delicious food and an incredible location in the Akureyri Botanical Garden. This combination makes LYST the top spot for dining in Akureyri.

LYST Address

Lystigardurinn, Eyrarlandsvegur 30, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Directions to LYST

LYST is located inside the Botanical Garden of Akureyri, just a short walk from the Akureyri Art Museum. Look for the large statement windows inspired by the garden’s trees, which make the building easy to spot. If you’re nearby, head toward the garden’s main entrance, and you’ll find LYST nestled among the greenery.

Best Cheap Meals in Akureyri

Sometimes, you just want something delicious for dinner in a casual environment, especially when dressed in full hiking gear or after a long road trip to the hidden destinations in North Iceland. These are the best places to enjoy a tasty, casual meal in Akureyri.

4. Krua Siam

Krua Siam is Akureyri’s go-to spot for authentic Thai cuisine, known for its bold flavors and balanced spices.

Dishes such as the rich green curry, tangy papaya salad, and perfectly grilled satay highlight the menu. Vegan travelers can enjoy options like fried noodles with tofu, and red or green curry with tofu and vegetables.

With a warm and welcoming atmosphere and friendly service, it’s a popular choice for lovers of Southeast Asian cuisine in Akureyri. Reservations are recommended to avoid waiting for their sought-after dishes.

Krua Siam Address

Strandgata 13, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Directions to Krua Siam

Krua Siam is located at Strandgata 13, just steps from Akureyri’s central bus stations (Midbaer and Hof). It’s about an 8‑minute walk north of Akureyrarkirkja Church and close to the Akureyri Art Museum.

3. Indian Curry House

Now, you might wonder, why would I choose Indian food in North Iceland? Shouldn’t I be trying Icelandic food?

Well, Indian Curry House absolutely deserves a place here, as it’s our personal go-to place for a casual dinner in Akureyri. It has captured our hearts over the years with authentic Indian food that’s reliably delicious.

Chef Sathiya Moorthy opened Indian Curry House in 2007, and it quickly became a popular spot in Akureyri. The restaurant is well-loved by locals for its flavorful tandoori lamb, chicken madras, and other authentic dishes, often served with fresh naan and papadums. It’s a great place to enjoy classic Indian cuisine, and takeaway is also available for those passing through Akureyri.

It’s the best place to go if you’re craving delicious Indian food while in Iceland!

Indian Curry House Address

Radhustorg 3, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Directions to Indian Curry House

Indian Curry House is right on Radhustorg Town Square, about a six-minute walk from Akureyri Church. If you’re coming from the harbor area, it’s an easy 5-minute stroll through the town center.

2. Bautinn Restaurant

As you stroll around Akureyri, the Bautinn Restaurant is unmissable, with its iconic red building right along the town’s main street. The building was initially constructed in 1902 and has housed the Bautinn Restaurant since its opening in 1971.

The focus at Bautinn has always been on serving good food at reasonable prices, and their menu is quite diverse. The fish and chips are classic, the burgers are good, and the fish soup is delicious. For a bit of history, go for the “Bautasneid” (Bautinn slice), a beef brisket on focaccia that has been on the menu since 1971!

Bautinn is a solid casual restaurant in Akureyri known for its tasty dishes. If you’re in the mood for a satisfying meal, it’s definitely worth a visit. While you might get a table without booking, it’s best to book a table at Bautinn for peace of mind.

Bautinn Restaurant Address

Hafnarstraeti 92, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Directions to Bautinn Restaurant

As you walk along Akureyri’s main street, look for Bautinn’s iconic red building; it’s hard to miss. It’s just a short stroll from landmarks like Akureyri Church and the Town Library. The restaurant’s historic presence adds charm to your visit, especially if you’re exploring Akureyri’s culture and history.

1. Akureyri Backpackers

The name “Akureyri Backpackers” certainly gives an idea of the atmosphere! It’s actually a guesthouse, but their restaurant is a welcoming spot for all weary travelers. It’s located along the Akureyri Main Street and serves tasty burgers, fish and chips, salads, and bar snacks.

Akureyri Backpackers has a full bar and is a popular place for a night out. They’re open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays and until 10 PM the rest of the week. They also show live sports events, so if there’s a game you don’t want to miss, check with Backpackers if they plan to show it.

This cozy spot is perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure. To make your visit to Akureyri even more convenient, book a room at the Akureyri Backpackers Guesthouse, so you can head straight upstairs to unwind after your meal. For more options, browse other guesthouses in Akureyri.

Akureyri Backpackers Address

Hafnarstraeti 98, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Directions to Akureyri Backpackers

Akureyri Backpackers is easy to find along the main street, close to the Akureyri Church, right on the town’s main shopping street. If you’re near these landmarks, just head down Hafnarstraeti Street to reach the guesthouse and restaurant.

Best Breakfast and Brunch in Akureyri

Starting your day right is easy in Akureyri, with plenty of cozy cafes and restaurants serving up fresh, satisfying breakfast and brunch options. Whether you’re after a quick coffee or a leisurely meal, these spots offer the perfect way to fuel your morning in town.

4. Ketilkaffi

Ketilkaffi is a cozy brunch cafe located inside the Akureyri Art Museum, offering a peaceful spot to start your day. The atmosphere blends Scandinavian simplicity with artistic flair, making it ideal for a relaxed meal or coffee break. The cafe is known for its all-day brunch menu made with high-quality ingredients.

Favorites include the Morgunverdarplatti (a full breakfast platter with sourdough toast, yogurt, fruit, an egg, and a sweet treat), as well as Eggs Benedict variations like the Egg Frida with avocado and the Egg Royale with smoked trout. Natural wines, specialty coffees, and matcha drinks round out the menu.

Ketilkaffi is a great choice for visitors looking to enjoy a locally inspired breakfast in a creative setting. Reservations aren’t usually required, but seating can fill up during lunch hours.

Ketilkaffi Address

Kaupvangsstraeti 8-12, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Directions to Ketilkaffi

Ketilkaffi is inside the Akureyri Art Museum, so a meal at the cafe pairs easily with a visit to the museum’s exhibitions. Guide to Iceland customers who buy their admission tickets at the reception desk also get 10% off purchases in the museum shop. The museum’s entrance is just off Kaupvangsstraeti Street, a short walk from the town center near the iconic Akureyri Church.

3. Kaffi Ilmur

Kaffi Ilmur is a charming cafe set in a century-old timber house, offering a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere. With its welcoming vibe and views over the town, it’s a favorite breakfast and brunch stop for travelers.

The cafe serves brunch from 10 or 11 AM, depending on the day and season, featuring classic dishes like eggs and bacon, shakshuka, and vegetarian options such as scrambled eggs with black beans and avocado. The menu also includes Dutch pancakes with toppings like apple and cinnamon or bacon.

Whether you’re after a quick bite or a leisurely brunch, Kaffi Ilmur provides a warm setting with homemade food and friendly service. The upstairs dining area and outdoor terrace offer plenty of space to relax.

Kaffi Ilmur Address

Hafnarstraeti 107b, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Directions to Kaffi Ilmur

Kaffi Ilmur is easy to find near Akureyrarkirkja Church, and just a short walk from the harbor. You can stroll along Hafnarstraeti Street to reach the cafe. Look for the charming old timber building that stands out among the modern surroundings.

2. Cafe Berlin

Cafe Berlin is a popular breakfast and brunch spot in Akureyri, known for its laid-back atmosphere and consistently satisfying meals. Loved by travelers, it’s an ideal place to enjoy a relaxed start to the day.

The menu features hearty and well-crafted options like vegetable quiche with salad, savory waffles, eggs, and freshly baked goods. Their coffee is also a highlight, perfect alongside a light breakfast or midday snack.

Open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, Cafe Berlin offers a cozy, casual setting with friendly service. The cafe is small and fills up quickly at peak times, so we recommend arriving early to avoid the rush.

Cafe Berlin Address

Skipagata 4, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Directions to Cafe Berlin

Cafe Berlin is just a short walk from the Akureyri Church. Most visitors reach it on foot from nearby shops and cafes, enjoying a pleasant stroll through Skipagata Street.

1. Blaa Kannan Cafe

Blaa Kannan Cafe is a cherished gem in Akureyri, housed in the historic Paris Building on Hafnarstraeti 96, which was built in 1913. Its distinctive blue facade and cozy interior make it a favorite among visitors.

The cafe opens its doors each morning with the aroma of freshly baked bread, offering a variety of sandwiches, cakes, and pastries. Throughout the day, patrons can enjoy the soup of the day served with sourdough bread, quiches, and paninis.

Blaa Kannan is renowned for its exceptional coffee, including options like Swiss mocha, cappuccino, and latte, along with its signature hot chocolate topped with whipped cream. The cafe also offers a selection of delightful cakes, such as rhubarb and chocolate cake, which pair perfectly with their coffee offerings.

The ambiance is warm and inviting, featuring a wooden interior and soft lighting that creates a relaxed atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for breakfast, a light lunch, or an afternoon coffee break.

Blaa Kannan Cafe operates daily, with hours typically from 9 AM to 10 PM on weekdays and 10 AM to 10 PM on weekends. Its central location and charming setting make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Akureyri.

Blaa Kannan Cafe Address

Hafnarstraeti 96, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Directions to Blaa Kannan Cafe

Blaa Kannan Cafe is just a short walk from Akureyri Church. Head down Hafnarstraeti Street, and you’ll spot its distinctive blue facade in the historic Paris Building. It’s easy to find along the main pedestrian street, close to shops and other cafes.

Final Thoughts on the Best Restaurants in Akureyri

Akureyri boasts a vibrant culinary scene, featuring everything from cozy cafes to fine dining establishments. These restaurants are the best way to taste local flavors and get to know the Akureyri food culture.

If you’re after a coffee break rather than a full meal, our guide to the best cafes in Akureyri has even more cozy spots, and our list of the best brunch places in Akureyri covers more morning options. Heading beyond town? Browse the best restaurants in North Iceland for places to stop along your route.

Whether you’re kicking off a day of exploration or relaxing after a long adventure, these are the best places to go. Include these restaurants in your North Iceland itinerary and make your visit to Akureyri even more memorable!