Iceland is often celebrated for its otherworldly landscapes, from sprawling lava fields to towering waterfalls, but its cuisine is just as intriguing. Rooted in tradition and shaped by the country’s isolation and resourcefulness, Icelandic food is a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re planning a road trip through this stunning Nordic nation, be sure to include a culinary adventure on your itinerary. From hearty lamb stew to the infamous fermented shark, Icelandic cuisine offers a mix of comfort, creativity, and a touch of daring.

Here’s a mouthwatering guide to the must-try dishes and where you can find them as you explore Iceland’s rugged roads and charming towns.

1. Lamb Stew (Kjötsúpa)

It’s hard to beat the warmth and comfort of kjötsúpa, a traditional Icelandic lamb stew. Made with tender chunks of lamb, root vegetables like carrots and turnips, and hearty barley, this dish has been a staple in Icelandic households for generations. It’s the perfect antidote to Iceland’s chilly weather and a great way to experience the country’s top-notch lamb.

Where to Try It:

Stop by the charming town of Selfoss on the Golden Circle route and visit Fjorubordid, a cozy seaside restaurant known for serving some of the best lamb stew in the area. Additionally, many gas stations with attached restaurants, like N1, often have kjötsúpa on their menu, ensuring you never have to go without this comfort classic on the road.

2. Skyr

Think yogurt, but better. Skyr is a thick, creamy dairy product that’s been part of Icelandic cuisine for over 1,000 years. High in protein and low in fat, it’s a versatile dish you can enjoy at any time of day. Locals eat it plain, with berries and honey, or even blended into smoothies.

Where to Try It:

Skyr is available everywhere in Iceland, from grocery stores to gas station mini-marts. Grab a tub of Ísey Skyr or MS Skyr (two popular brands) for a snack while on the road. If you’re in Reykjavík, you can also stop by Café Loki, which offers creative dishes and desserts made with skyr.

Pro Tip: Mix in some wild Icelandic blueberries for an authentic and delicious touch.

3. Fresh Arctic Char

The clear, icy waters surrounding Iceland make it a haven for fresh fish, and Arctic char is one of the absolute highlights. This fish is mild in flavor, with a buttery texture that melts in your mouth. Whether grilled, smoked, or cured, Arctic char is a must-try for seafood lovers.

Where to Try It:

For one of the best seafood experiences in Iceland, head to Tjöruhúsið in Ísafjörður, located in the Westfjords. This rustic and welcoming spot serves fresh fish caught daily, including mouthwatering Arctic char. If you’re staying local, many coastal towns like Hofn or Akureyri have restaurants serving up freshly caught fish straight from the docks.

4. Fermented Shark (Hákarl)

If you’re feeling adventurous, hákarl is Iceland’s most infamous traditional food. Fermented Greenland shark is buried and cured for months, then cut into cubes and served alongside a shot of brennivín, Iceland’s potent caraway-flavored schnapps. The result? A tangy, pungent flavor that’s both a challenge and a rite of passage for travelers.

Where to Try It:

You’ll find this bold dish in many places, especially at cultural festivals or food markets. For an authentic experience, visit Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where you can learn about the history of hákarl and sample it on-site.

5. Icelandic Hot Dogs (Pylsur)

Hot dogs might not scream "traditional" at first glance, but pylsur is a beloved part of Icelandic street food culture. Icelandic hot dogs are made from a blend of lamb, beef, and pork, giving them a slightly sweet, smoky flavor. They’re typically served in a warm bun with raw onions, crispy onions, ketchup, mustard, and remoulade. It’s simple, fast, and absolutely delicious.

Where to Try It:

You can’t visit Reykjavík without stopping at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, arguably the most famous hot dog stand in the country. It’s been serving eager customers since 1937, including celebrities like Bill Clinton. If you’re driving through smaller towns, keep an eye out for pylsur stalls at gas stations or local festivals.

6. Plokkfiskur

This comforting fish stew is one of Iceland’s hidden gems. Plokkfiskur combines flaked, boiled fish (usually cod or haddock), potatoes, and a creamy béchamel sauce, served with a side of dense rye bread. It’s a simple dish steeped in tradition and perfect for seafood lovers.

Where to Try It:

Visit Messinn in Reykjavík, known for its exceptional take on plokkfiskur, where it’s often served in a hot skillet with tender chunks of fish. You can also find versions of this dish at many family-run restaurants in fishing villages along the coast.

7. Rye Bread (Rúgbrauð)

Speaking of bread, rúgbrauð is an Icelandic specialty you simply can’t miss. This dark, slightly sweet rye bread is traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat. The result is a dense, moist loaf that pairs well with smoked salmon or a dollop of butter. Some even crumble it into skyr for breakfast!

Where to Try It:

For a truly unique experience, head to Laugarvatn Fontana, a hot spring spa in southern Iceland. Here, they bake rúgbrauð right in the steaming ground and serve it warm with butter. It’s a must-try cultural treat.

8. Icelandic Lamb

The lamb in Iceland is unlike any other, thanks to the sheep's diet of wild grass, moss, and herbs. Whether roasted, smoked, or slow-cooked, the meat is tender and flavorful, making it a centerpiece of Icelandic cuisine.

Where to Try It:

For a memorable dinner, visit Grillmarkaðurinn (The Grill Market) in Reykjavík, where they serve traditional Icelandic lamb with a modern twist. If you’re road tripping through rural areas, farm-to-table dining options like Við Fjöruborðið in Stokkseyri offer exceptional lamb dishes and a cozy ambiance.

9. Brennivín and Local Beverages

No Icelandic culinary adventure is complete without sampling the local drinks. Brennivín, nicknamed the "Black Death," is Iceland’s iconic spirit. It’s a strong schnapps made from fermented potatoes and caraway seeds. Pair it with hákarl or sip it on its own to warm up on a cold day.

For non-alcoholic options, try malt og appelsín, a malted soda mixed with orange soda, commonly enjoyed around Christmas but available year-round.

Where to Try It:

You can find Brennivín in liquor stores (Vínbúðin) or order it at most restaurants and bars. Try malt og appelsín at grocery stores or gas stations for a refreshing pick-me-up during long drives.

Road Trip Culinary Tips

  1. Stock Up at Supermarkets: Iceland can be pricey, so stock up on local snacks like skyr, Icelandic chocolates, and dried fish at stores like Bonus or Krónan before hitting the road.
  2. Explore Gas Station Eats: Don’t underestimate Iceland’s gas station diners! Many serve surprisingly good traditional fare like kjötsúpa or plokkfiskur alongside the iconic pylsur.
  3. Plan Around Seasonal Dishes: Certain dishes, like smoked lamb (hangikjöt), are more common during holidays. Visit during Christmas for a special culinary treat.
  4. Be Adventurous: Icelandic cuisine is all about stepping out of your comfort zone. Even if hákarl or brennivín doesn’t sound appealing, try them! It’s all part of the experience.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, glaciers, or Northern Lights, make sure your road trip through Iceland includes a taste of its unique culinary traditions. Each dish tells a story of Iceland’s history, culture, and resilience, making your trip all the more unforgettable.