7 Best Restaurants in Akureyri, Iceland

Bakaríið við Brúna

$ Fodor's choice
Akureyri’s favorite bakery gets a lot of business from locals but still flies under visitors' radar. Like most Icelandic bakeries, the shelves are stacked with Danish pastries, freshly baked bread, sandwiches, and cakes—but the quality here puts them a cut above the rest. It’s by the Glerá river, about a 10-minute walk from the city center.
Bakery Breakfast Family Fodor's Choice Lunch Quick Bite $
Dalsbraut 1, Akureyri, Iceland
354-461–2700
Known For
  • best kleinur (traditional Icelandic twisted doughnuts) in Iceland
  • gooey chocolate snuður, the Icelandic take on cinnamon buns
  • freshly baked bread

Bláa Kannan

$$ Fodor's choice

Pretty enough to be featured on picture postcards of Akureyri's town center, this beautiful blue building with red turrets is the perfect spot in any season to grab a coffee and watch the world go by. The interior, with weathered wooden beams and chandeliers, gives off a supercozy vibe—the perfect setting for a simple savory brunch plate, a soup, or a nice sweet treat.

Brunch Café Dessert Fodor's Choice Lunch $$
Hafnarstræti 96, Akureyri, 600, Iceland
354-461–4600
Known For
  • happy marriage cake (a traditional dessert in Iceland made with rhubarb)
  • the best coffee in Akureyri
  • brunch plate

Hælið Café

$$ Fodor's choice

In addition to superb coffee and homemade pastries, this excellent vintage hospital–themed café offers a dose of 1940s-style respite—as well as a hint of theater—in a lovely, detailed setting in the countryside. Run by actress Maria Pálsdóttir, the café doubles as an exhibition center dedicated to patients of “the Great White Plague” (tuberculosis).

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Akureyri Fish and Chips

$$

This food truck serves up exactly what it says in the title. Stop by for fresh fish, crispy breading, and a heaping pile of fries with all the fixings. Check their Facebook page for their current location. 

Bautinn

$$$$

Located on one of the main corners of town and in one of its oldest buildings, this family favorite offers generous portions at affordable prices. Popular international favorites (burgers, pasta dishes, and tacos) are served alongside fresh local fish and some Akureyri favorites. It’s an excellent place for a quick and filling lunch or evening meal.

Indian Curry House

$$$

Indian classics with both meat and veggie options are served up at this colorful addition to Akureyri’s international culinary scene—it might just be the most northern Indian restaurant in the world. For those looking for a deal, their lunch specials offer a hefty discount.

Dinner Indian Lunch $$$
Ráðhústorg 3, Akureyri, 600, Iceland
354-461–4242
www.curry.is
Known For
  • classic Indian favorites
  • large portions
  • thrifty lunch specials
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. in winter

Leirunesti

$$

Although others claim to have the best burger in town, locals know that Leirunesti is the real deal thanks to its famous Akureyringur Burger, stuffed with fries in the middle—order it on its own for ISK 1,950 or as a combo with soda and extra fries for ISK 2,590. Also try the deep-fried hot dog with fries and melted cheese, another specialty that draws in both locals and out-of-towners. Views from this location are sensational in all directions, especially in the summer.