Reykjavik has a reputation for being tough on the wallet, especially when it comes to dining out. But don't let the headlines fool you; enjoying incredible, authentic, and genuinely cheap eats Reykjavik for tourists on a budget isn't just possible—it's part of the local experience. The key is knowing where to look and what to order. Forget the fancy sit-down restaurants for every meal, and lean into the vibrant street food, cozy cafes, and bustling food halls that offer big flavors without the hefty price tag.
At a Glance: Your Quick Budget-Friendly Food Guide
- Hot Dogs Reign Supreme: The classic Icelandic hot dog is your cheapest, most iconic meal.
- Food Halls Are Your Friends: Diverse options, social atmosphere, and often better value than standalone restaurants.
- Soup & Noodles for Warmth & Fullness: Generous portions of comforting, affordable bowls are plentiful.
- Bakeries for Breakfast & Snacks: Fresh, delicious pastries and coffee make for a great start to the day.
- Look for Lunch Deals: Many places offer specials that make dining out more accessible.
- Water is Free: Always ask for tap water (kranavatn) to save on drink costs.
The Unofficial National Dish: Mastering the Icelandic Hot Dog
When someone talks about cheap eats in Reykjavik, the first thing that usually comes up is the hot dog. And for good reason. It's an institution, a culinary landmark, and undeniably one of the best value meals you'll find.
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: A Legendary Stop
This isn't just any hot dog stand; it's practically a pilgrimage site. Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, located by the Old Harbour, has been serving up its famous lamb-based hot dogs since 1937. You'll often find a line, but it moves quickly. The magic lies in how you order: "eina með öllu" (one with everything). This translates to ketchup, sweet mustard, remoulade (a mayonnaise-based sauce), and both raw and fried onions. The combination is unexpectedly delicious, a symphony of savory, sweet, and tangy, all for around $3.50. It’s a quintessential Reykjavik experience and an absolute budget winner.
Beyond this famous spot, you'll find other hot dog chains throughout the city offering lamb, beef, or pork options, usually with a choice of five different condiments. They're consistently good, quick, and satisfying for a grab-and-go meal.
Soups and Noodles: Hearty Bowls for Cold Days
Reykjavik's weather can be unpredictable, making a warm, filling bowl of soup or noodles an incredibly appealing and budget-friendly choice. Many spots specialize in generous portions designed to keep you cozy.
Noodle Station: Simple & Satisfying
This cozy eatery is a straightforward, no-frills option for a hearty meal. Noodle Station focuses on what it does best: affordable and filling noodle soups. You can choose from chicken, beef, or vegetable broths, customizing with your preferred protein. It's the kind of place where a single bowl feels substantial and can easily constitute a full meal, making it an excellent stop for a quick, warm, and wallet-friendly lunch or dinner.
101 Reykjavík Street Food: Authentic Icelandic Comfort
For a taste of traditional Icelandic cuisine that won't break the bank, 101 Reykjavík Street Food is a gem. They offer an array of authentic local dishes in generous portions. Their menu features noodle soups, seafood soups, classic fish & chips, and the much-loved traditional fish stew (Plokkfiskur). A standout is their "Grandma Meat Soup," a comforting, robust broth packed with meat and vegetables, reminiscent of homemade cooking. The large portions ensure you get excellent value for your money.
The Charm of a Soup and Bread Spot
Look out for places that specialize in soups, often served in a bread bowl. This concept is brilliant for a budget traveler: a delicious, filling soup, plus the edible bowl, all in one package. These spots often also feature traditional fish stew served with dense Icelandic rye bread, and if you're lucky, hjonabandssæla cake ("Marriage Bliss") for a sweet finish. It’s a rustic, satisfying, and culturally immersive dining experience that feels much more expensive than it actually is.
Navigating Reykjavik's Food Halls: A Budget Buffet of Choice
Food halls have become a global trend, and Reykjavik's versions are perfect havens for budget-conscious tourists. They offer a diverse array of culinary experiences under one roof, allowing everyone in your group to find something they love, often at more reasonable prices than individual restaurants.
Hlemmur Mathöll: A Modern Icelandic Hub
Hlemmur Mathöll is arguably the most popular food hall in Reykjavik, housed in a beautifully renovated old bus terminal. It's a vibrant space showcasing everything from traditional Icelandic fare to international delights. Here, you can wander between stalls, compare prices, and pick exactly what suits your taste and budget. You might find elevated street food, gourmet sandwiches, or even smaller portions from more upscale vendors. It’s an ideal spot to grab a relatively affordable, high-quality meal or just a snack and a coffee.
Old Harbour Food Spot: Creative & Diverse
While sometimes unnamed or changing, a popular food spot near the Old Harbour often surprises visitors with its creative mix of Icelandic, Vietnamese, and other international dishes. The variety means you can easily find anything from a fresh spring roll to a hearty bowl of fish stew, with prices generally falling into the affordable range. It’s a fantastic option if you’re looking for something a bit different but still want to keep costs down.
Within these food halls, or as standalone quick-serve spots, you might encounter places like:
- Fuego: Often serving up tasty tacos, a quick and satisfying option.
- Flatley Pizza: Classic Neapolitan pizza slices or whole pies, perfect for sharing or a larger meal.
- Kröst: While known for fine wines and cured meats, they often have smaller, shareable plates that can work for a lighter, budget-conscious meal.
Food halls are not just about the food; they're also a great place to soak in the local atmosphere, especially on a chilly evening. They provide a warm, inviting space to relax without the pressure of a full-service restaurant.
Unexpected Value: Burgers, Falafel, and Global Flavors
Sometimes, the best budget finds come from places that aren't strictly "Icelandic." These international flavors often provide generous portions and familiar comforts at a good price.
Zorbian: A Diverse Menu with Value
Zorbian stands out for its eclectic menu, offering a range of dishes that are both filling and surprisingly affordable. You can find options like Zorbian Fish and Chips, a satisfying 12″ Lobster Pizza (a treat without breaking the bank), Lamb Burgers, and flavorful Zorbian Falafel. A full, satisfying meal here can cost you around 10 USD, which is excellent value for Reykjavik. It’s a great choice when you’re looking for variety beyond traditional Icelandic fare.
Burger Spot: The "Di Amerikan Drim"
If a classic burger, fries, and a drink combo is your idea of a perfect meal, a specific Burger Spot location offers their "Di Amerikan Drim" combo for under 20 USD. While not as cheap as a hot dog, it's a solid, satisfying meal at a price point that's considerably lower than many other sit-down options in the city. It's a reliable choice for a familiar, filling meal.
A Taste of the Sea, Affordably: Seafood Selections
Eating seafood in a city like Reykjavik might seem like a luxury, but there are ways to enjoy the freshest catches without blowing your entire budget.
Messinn: Strategic Seafood Splurge
While some dishes at Messinn can climb towards the $30 mark, their specialty, Plokkfiskur Med Bearnaiseosu (stewed cod with bearnaise sauce), offers a chance to taste beautifully prepared local seafood. This traditional stew is hearty and flavorful. If you're going to splurge slightly on one seafood meal, choosing a traditional, filling stew like this rather than a prime cut of fish can be a smarter budget decision. It’s still more than a hot dog, but it's a genuine taste of Icelandic seafood done right. Remember, places like 101 Reykjavík Street Food also offer fish & chips and fish stew at more accessible prices.
Early Birds and Late-Night Bites: Bakeries and Thai Food
Your budget shouldn't dictate your schedule. Reykjavik offers cheap eats for breakfast and even very late into the night.
Bakery/Café: Sweet Starts and Savory Breads
For a truly Icelandic start to your day or a delightful afternoon snack, seek out a local bakery or café. They are renowned for freshly baked cinnamon buns, pretzel croissants, and dense rye bread, often served with rich Icelandic butter and specialty salt. These items are delicious, often quite large, and significantly cheaper than a full breakfast at a hotel or diner. Pair it with a coffee, and you've got an authentic, affordable, and satisfying meal.
Kaffi Vinyl: Vegan & Vibrant
If you're looking for vegan-friendly options or just a trendy, relaxed atmosphere, Kaffi Vinyl is a fantastic choice. This café is known for its affordable vegan dishes and snacks, making it a budget-conscious spot for plant-based eaters. It’s a great place to hang out, listen to some music, and enjoy good food without spending a fortune.
Krua Thai: Your Late-Night Lifesaver
Reykjavik's nightlife can be lively, and finding food late can be tricky, let alone affordable food. Krua Thai fills this niche perfectly. Serving classic Thai dishes such as Pad Thai, Tempura, and Panang, it accepts walk-ins and operates incredibly late—until 2 am most nights and even until 6 am on weekends. This makes it an invaluable resource for a satisfying, budget-friendly meal after a night out.
Snacks That Satisfy: Quick Bites to Tide You Over
Sometimes, you just need a quick, cheap bite to hold you over between meals or as a light lunch.
Reykjavik Chips: Simple Pleasure
For a straightforward, comforting snack or a very light lunch, Reykjavik Chips comes highly recommended. As the name suggests, they specialize in perfectly fried chips (fries), often served with a choice of delicious sauces. It's a no-fuss, affordable option that hits the spot when you're craving something warm and crispy.
Your Practical Playbook for Cheap Eats in Reykjavik
Eating well on a budget in Reykjavik isn't about deprivation; it's about smart choices and local insights.
- Embrace Street Food Culture: Hot dogs are your go-to. Don't underestimate their power to satisfy and save you money.
- Make Food Halls Your Dining Room: Utilize places like Hlemmur Mathöll for variety, atmosphere, and better prices. They are perfect for groups with differing tastes.
- Prioritize Soups & Stews: These are often the most filling and comforting options for the price, especially traditional Icelandic fish stew or meat soup.
- Look for Lunch Specials: Many cafes and casual restaurants offer discounted lunch menus. Keep an eye out for signs.
- Pack Snacks: Bring some non-perishable snacks from home (granola bars, dried fruit) to save on impulse buys.
- Grocery Store Savvy: Consider visiting a local supermarket (Bónus or Krónan are good, budget-friendly options) for breakfast items, sandwich fixings, or even pre-made salads. Preparing just one meal a day at your accommodation can significantly reduce costs. This strategy aligns well with the principles of creating affordable and quick meals, much like the broader advice on how to Make Budget Chicken Meals Quick – applying similar savvy to your travel dining.
- Tap Water is Free & Safe: Always ask for "kranavatn" (tap water) to avoid paying for bottled water.
- Dine Late Strategically: Places like Krua Thai offer affordable, full meals during hours when other budget options might be closed.
Quick Answers: Your Reykjavik Cheap Eats FAQ
Is it really possible to eat cheap in Reykjavik?
Absolutely. While Reykjavik is known for being expensive, there are numerous local spots, as highlighted here, that cater to budget-conscious diners. The key is to seek out street food, food halls, soup spots, and bakeries rather than relying solely on sit-down restaurants.
What's the absolute cheapest meal I can get in Reykjavik?
The classic Icelandic hot dog ("pylsa") from Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur or any other stand, ordered "eina með öllu," is typically the cheapest and most iconic meal, costing around $3.50.
Are there good vegan/vegetarian cheap options?
Yes! Kaffi Vinyl is a standout for affordable vegan dishes and snacks. Many food halls also feature stalls with excellent vegetarian and vegan choices, and noodle soups can often be customized with vegetable broths.
How can I easily find these budget-friendly spots?
Google Maps is your best friend. Search for specific names mentioned here, or use terms like "Reykjavik street food," "food hall Reykjavik," or "cheap eats near me." Don't be afraid to ask locals for their favorite budget recommendations; they often know the hidden gems.
Making Every Krona Count
Eating your way through Reykjavik on a budget is not just about saving money; it’s about experiencing the city like a local. From the iconic hot dog to hearty soups and vibrant food halls, the city offers a surprisingly rich tapestry of affordable and delicious dining options. Be adventurous, embrace the casual spots, and you’ll discover that some of the best culinary memories come from the most unexpected, and cheapest, places.