Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour – Icelandic Traditional Food

Planning to get a real taste of Icelandic cuisine? This Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour offers a chance to explore local flavors, hear stories behind traditional dishes, and avoid tourist traps—all in a small-group setting. Whether you’re a foodie eager to try authentic Icelandic bites or just curious about the country’s culinary culture, this tour might be just what you’re looking for.

What we really love about this experience is how personal it feels. The group size is limited to 12 people, which means you get plenty of attention from the guide and a chance to ask all your questions. Plus, the variety of stops—from the oldest restaurant in Reykjavik to a beloved hot dog stand—means you’ll sample a broad spectrum of Iceland’s food scene. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is quite curated, so if you’re expecting a full-course meal, this might fall a bit short; it’s more about tasting and learning. This tour suits those who want a relaxed, insightful, and delicious introduction to Icelandic cuisine.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: Limited to 12 people for a cozy, personalized experience.
• Diverse Food Stops: From traditional soups to fermented shark and hot dogs.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides share stories and insights that deepen your understanding.
• Authentic Local Spots: Includes the city’s oldest restaurant, a flea market, and a unique delicacy store.
• Flexible Scheduling: Multiple tour times available to fit your plans.
• Value for Money: Though not a full meal, the sampling and stories make it worthwhile.

An In-Depth Look at the Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The tour kicks off at Ingólfur Square, a central spot in Reykjavik’s historic heart. The guide will meet you here, so arriving a few minutes early is key. From there, the journey begins with a visit to Seabaron at the old Reykjavik harbor. This is the spot for a shellfish soup, giving you a flavorful introduction to Iceland’s seafood reputation. Travelers have raved about the quality and the opportunity to taste Icelandic seafood right where it all happens.

Next, if you’re doing the tour on a weekend, you’ll walk through Kolaportið, Reykjavik’s lively flea market. This is where you might discover traditional Icelandic foods you haven’t seen elsewhere—think dried fish, special candies, and other local treats. The market only operates Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 5 pm, so timing is something to keep in mind. Many guests find the market to be a highlight, thanks to its authentic vibe and unique food offerings.

The tour continues to Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, the legendary hot dog stand established in 1937. This isn’t just any hot dog; it’s considered a must-try, especially since it’s been serving locals and visitors alike for decades. The hot dogs are made with lamb, and as many reviews mention, they’re a satisfying, iconic Icelandic snack. Keeping it simple has become its charm, and the guide often shares fun stories about its history.

Then, it’s time to sample Icelandic lamb soup at Icelandic Street Food. This is often described as “Iceland in a bowl,” and many reviewers mention how hearty and comforting it is. The guide explains the traditional ingredients and why lamb is such a staple here. It’s this mix of storytelling and tasting that makes the experience memorable.

A quick stop at Taste of Iceland takes you inside a local delicacy store, where you can browse and sample some snacks, candies, and jams unique to Icelandic cuisine. Many guests love trying the crowberry jam here—an authentic, flavorful souvenir to take home.

Finally, the tour wraps up at Dass Reykjavik, a restaurant near Hallgrimskirkja church, where you get to try several delicacies, including the infamous fermented shark (Hakarl). This dish is definitely for the adventurous, and many guests appreciate the chance to try it in a friendly, guided setting. The end also involves a toast with an Icelandic drink—either non-alcoholic or a local brew or snaps like Black Death—which adds a celebratory touch.

What Makes Each Stop Special?

• Seabaron offers a taste of Iceland’s seafood prowess. The shellfish soup is a warm, savory start to your culinary journey.
• Kolaportið gives you a glimpse into local life and traditional food markets, often described as an authentic Icelandic experience.
• Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur is an iconic stop, known for its historic significance and delicious lamb hot dogs.
• Icelandic Street Food provides a hearty lamb soup that encapsulates Icelandic comfort food.
• Taste of Iceland is a fun, casual stop to explore Icelandic snacks and sweets.
• Dass Reykjavik finalizes the tour with a taste of traditional dishes, including the bold fermented shark, in a cozy setting.

Why the Guides Make a Difference

Guests consistently praise the guides for their knowledge, storytelling, and personable approach. For example, many reviews highlight guides sharing personal stories and Icelandic history, turning a food tour into an engaging cultural experience. One reviewer remarked, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and it is clear he loves his Icelandic heritage.” That passion shines through and enhances the tasting experience. Others mention guides going above and beyond, tailoring parts of the tour for children or personal interests.

The Food and Portion Sizes

While this isn’t a sit-down, full-course meal, the tour provides enough tastings for a satisfying experience. Multiple reviews mention leaving full, surprised at how much they managed to try. One guest said, “I was STUFFED,” after sampling everything from smoked lamb tartare to lobster bisque and salmon on rye. The variety is intentionally broad, giving you a good sense of typical Icelandic fare without overwhelming.

Guests often note the quality and authenticity of the dishes. The hot dogs are described as “snap to it,” and the lamb soup as “delicious.” Even the fermented shark got some brave souls trying it, with many acknowledging it’s more about the experience than the taste.

Group Size, Duration, and Value

With a maximum of 12 travelers, this tour keeps things intimate. The duration runs from 2 hours 30 minutes to about 3 hours, striking a good balance between thoroughness and not overdoing it. The price of around $138 per person is reasonable when you consider it includes many tastings, a knowledgeable guide, and drinks. For food lovers wanting to understand Iceland’s cuisine and culture, the value is quite good, especially given the reviews praising the guide’s storytelling and the authentic stops.

Considerations for Travelers

This tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately, especially if you’re visiting in a colder or rainy season. It’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must. While the tour is mostly suitable for most travelers, those with dietary restrictions should note that the guide tries to accommodate allergies and special diets, but some dishes like shark are quite specific.

Also, note that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so plan to meet at Ingólfur Square. Timing might be tricky if you’re traveling during busy weekends, as some stops depend on opening hours of markets or restaurants.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re curious about Icelandic culinary traditions and want to sample a range of local foods without committing to a full meal, this tour is perfect. It’s especially well-suited for first-timers in Reykjavik wanting an approachable, guided introduction to the city’s food scene. Foodies who enjoy storytelling and cultural context will find the guides’ insights particularly enriching. However, if you’re after a gastronomic feast or are very picky eaters, this might be more of a tasting experience than a full meal.

This tour also appeals to those who like small-group settings, where you’ll have the chance to ask questions and get personalized recommendations. It’s a great way to combine light walking, cultural learning, and delicious bites—all in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, especially if they enjoy trying new foods. The guides are friendly and accommodating, but keep in mind that some dishes, like fermented shark, might be a bit adventurous for younger kids.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the pace and group size.

What is included in the price?
All taxes and fees are covered. The tour includes food tastings at multiple stops, water, and a drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic). Guides are professional and knowledgeable.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is this tour good for people on a tight schedule?
Absolutely. It’s a compact experience that packs tasting, culture, and sightseeing into a manageable time frame, perfect for fitting into a busy itinerary.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Most travelers book about 52 days ahead, indicating good availability for advance planning. Booking early is recommended, especially in high season.

Are there options for dietary restrictions?
The guide makes efforts to accommodate dietary needs, but some dishes are specific. It’s best to mention any allergies when booking.

Final Thoughts

The Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour offers a genuine, tasty glimpse into Icelandic cuisine, perfectly suited for those eager to understand local flavors without a full sit-down meal. With knowledgeable guides, authentic stops, and a friendly atmosphere, it provides a well-rounded introduction to Reykjavik’s food scene.

If you enjoy stories behind your food, exploring markets, and sampling dishes like lamb soup and fermented shark, this tour is an entertaining way to spend part of your day. It’s especially good for first-time visitors wanting an accessible, insider look at Icelandic culinary traditions. While it might not satisfy a gourmand looking for a full-course feast, it delivers authentic flavors, engaging storytelling, and a fun cultural experience—all in a small-group setting. Highly recommended for curious travelers who want a memorable, tasty taste of Iceland.