Are you looking for the best spots for brunch in Reykjavik?
Welcome to Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, where the cool breeze from the North Atlantic meets the warm, welcoming atmosphere of a city rich in culture and history. One of the best ways to start your day in this enchanting city is with a delightful brunch.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a delicious meal while soaking in the unique Icelandic ambiance. Just like in North America, people in Iceland love to eat brunch!
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the 9 best spots for everyday brunch in Reykjavik. From cozy cafés to trendy bistros, these places not only serve up scrumptious food but also offer a really great atmosphere.
Each restaurant on our list is carefully selected based on personal experience, recommendations and customer reviews, to make sure you get to enjoy the most loved brunch plates that Reykjavik has to offer.
The 9 Best Spots for Everyday Brunch in Reykjavik Iceland
1. Café Loki
Address: Lokastígur 28, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Phone Number: +354 466 2828
Cafe Loki Google Maps Link
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
When you visit Reykjavik, you have to check out Café Loki for a delicious brunch. It’s right across from Hallgrimskirkja, offering amazing views and a cosy feel with its cool wall mural. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a relaxing meal.
For brunch, try their homemade rye bread with smoked trout or mashed fish. These dishes are not only tasty but also give you a true taste of Icelandic cuisine. Another brunch favorite is the Icelandic pancakes served with skyr (Icelandic yogurt) and rhubarb jelly. The mix of sweet and tangy flavors makes it a hit among visitors.
The prices are good, ranging from 15€ to €25, making it an affordable spot for everyone. I loved how the staff were super friendly and attentive, making sure we had a great experience. The café is also vegetarian-friendly with some vegan options available, so there really is something for everyone.
One quirky thing you might want to try if you’re brave is the fermented shark. It’s a traditional Icelandic dish and definitely an acquired taste, but it’s worth trying for the experience. We didn’t experience this, but some visitors mentioned that the café can get quite busy, especially during peak hours. So, if you prefer a more relaxed meal, try arriving a little earlier.
Overall, Café Loki offers a wonderful brunch experience with traditional Icelandic flavors and a friendly atmosphere. Come and enjoy the view of Hallgrimskirkja while savoring delicious food at this charming café.
2. Café Babalú
Address: Skólavörðustígur 22, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Phone Number: +354 555 8845
Cafe Babalu Google Maps Link
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Café Babalú is a quirky and cozy café located on Skólavörðustígur Street in Reykjavik. This spot is famous for its eclectic décor, including a fun Star Wars-themed bathroom that adds a playful touch to your visit. The café has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a leisurely brunch.
For brunch, Café Babalú offers a variety of tasty options. One of the most popular dishes is the grilled cheese sandwich, which pairs perfectly with their creamy tomato soup. If you have a sweet tooth, you must try their New York cheesecake or their delicious chocolate crepes. The apple crumble is another dessert that receives high praise from visitors.
One of my personal favorites is their chai latte, which is just perfect for a chilly Reykjavik morning. They also serve a great selection of other beverages, including americano and espresso, as well as beer and wine if you’re in the mood for something a bit stronger.
The prices at Café Babalú are quite reasonable, making it an affordable option for brunch. The café is also vegetarian-friendly and offers several vegan options, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The staff are friendly and provide excellent service, adding to the overall positive experience.
However, it’s worth noting that Café Babalú can get quite busy, especially during weekends and peak hours. If you prefer a quieter experience, it’s best to visit during weekdays or earlier in the morning. Despite the occasional crowd, the cozy atmosphere and delicious food make it well worth the visit.
3. Bastard Brew & Food
Address: Vegamótastígur 4, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Phone Number: +354 558 0800
Bastard Brew & Food Google Maps Link:
Brunch Hours: 12:00 AM – 4:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday only
This was hands down our favorite brunch place to go! Known for its infamous ‘bottomless brunch,’ the lively pub offers a unique and exciting brunch experience which lasts 2 hours. You can choose to eat as many dishes as you want during the 2-hour span. The atmosphere is casual and great fun, making it a great place to relax and have great food on the weekend.
For brunch, you can choose from a variety of sweet or savory dishes. Their street tacos are a big hit, packed with flavor and fresh ingredients. Another favorite is the fat bastard burger, known for being juicy and delicious. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, their churros with chocolate dip are a must-try. My favorite was the avocado toast and classic eggs Benedict, so there’s something for all tastes.
Prices at Bastard Brew & Food are a little steep, since brunch goes for about 40 € per person. We loved that the staff were super friendly and made sure we had a great time. It’s also nice to know that the café is vegetarian-friendly and also offers gluten-free options.
One thing to keep in mind is that it can get quite busy, especially during peak hours, so know that you’ll have to wait a little for your table since this is the place to be on Saturday and Sunday morning! Even with the crowd and the steep prices, the overall experience at Bastard Brew & Food is fantastic and worth every penny.
4. Grái kötturinn
Address: Hverfisgata 16a, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Phone Number: +354 551 1544
Google Maps Link: Find Grái Kötturinn on Google Maps
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Although we didn’t get the chance to eat at this joint, it’s a local favorite and came highly recommended by many people. This café is located in a charming basement and has a really inviting atmosphere which is filled with books and vintage decor.
One of the most popular brunch options here is “The Truck,” a huge plate that includes pancakes, toast, bacon, eggs, and fried potatoes. This dish is perfect if you’re looking for a filling meal to start your day. The pancakes are fluffy, and the bacon is delicious, though you might want to ask for it crispy if that’s your preference. The homemade bread served with many dishes is a highlight and adds a special touch to your meal.
The prices are reasonable, making it an affordable option for a hearty brunch. You can expect to spend around 20€ per person, which is quite good given the generous portions. The café also serves great coffee, including cappuccinos and Americanos, which pair perfectly with your meal.
Visitors rave about the friendly and attentive staff who ensure you have a pleasant dining experience. The service is quick, and even though the place is small with limited seating, the cozy atmosphere more than makes up for it.
Grái Kötturinn is also vegetarian-friendly and offers a few vegan options too. However, keep in mind that this is a popular spot so coming early or during weekdays is definitely the best way to get a table.
5. BakaBaka Bakery & Restaurant
Address: Bankastræti 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Phone Number: +354 551 4430
BakaBaka Bakery & Restaurant Google Maps Link
Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 11:00 PM
On the receptionist’s recommendation we picked up some chocolate croissants from BakaBaka on our way out of town for a day trip, and they were incredible! This cozy bakery on Bankastræti is perfect for a quick breakfast or a laid-back brunch. The warm, inviting atmosphere and freshly baked goodies make it a must-visit.
You’ve got to try their chocolate croissant – it’s super flaky and rich. Another hit is their cinnamon roll, which is sweet and perfectly spiced. If you’re craving something savory, their bacon and egg croissant sandwich is amazing. The bacon is smoky and sweet, and the eggs are creamy, making for a fantastic combo.
It’s a little pricey, but the baked goods really are gourmet, so we felt it was definitely worth it. They also cater to vegetarians and vegans, so everyone is covered. Plus, the location is right in the heart of Reykjavik, which is super convenient.
6. Emilie and the Cool Kids
Address: Hverfisgata 98, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Phone Number: +354 571 5887
Emilie and the Cool Kids Google Maps Link
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Emilie and the Cool Kids is a charming café in Reykjavik that you definitely need to check out for brunch. Located on Hverfisgata, this spot has a cool, eclectic vibe with cute decor that makes you feel right at home.
The bagels are homemade which makes this place a home run in my book! One of the must-try items is the Salmon and Garfunkel Bagel because its just so tasty. Their breakfast bagels and coffees are perfect for starting your day, especially if you’ve just arrived in town and need a good meal after a long flight. The spinach and feta pastry is another favorite, packed with flavor and perfect for a light brunch.
The café offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian options, which is great if you’re looking for something plant based. Prices are quite reasonable, ranging from 10-20€, making it a budget-friendly choice.
With its cool atmosphere, delicious food, and friendly service, Emilie and the Cool Kids is a fantastic spot for brunch in Reykjavik.
7. Kaffihús Vesturbæjar
Address: Melhagi 20-22, 107 Reykjavík, Iceland
Phone Number: +354 551 0623
Kaffihús Vesturbæjar Google Maps Link
Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
I got a chance to eat at Kaffihús Vesturbæjar because of a great tip from our hotel reception. It came highly recommended for its healthy and beautifully presented brunch plates.
When we visited, it was October and we really enjoyed the fall foliage which was just as beautiful as back in Wisconsin, but that also meant that they were serving free mimosas for Iceland’s Women’s Day, which was a lovely surprise!
The café is located in the Vesturbær neighborhood, a bit away from the bustling downtown, providing a peaceful setting. The atmosphere is cozy and filled with natural light, thanks to the large windows that overlook the street.
The brunch menu features a variety of delicious options, and the cauliflower soup comes highly recommended by many visitors. The prices are what you’d expect at a regular coffee shop, making it an affordable yet delightful choice for brunch.
The staff are known to be friendly and welcoming, which adds to the charm of this spot. Even though I didn’t get to try the food myself, the recommendations and the wonderful vibe make Kaffihús Vesturbæjar a place worth visiting when you’re in Reykjavik.
8. The Laundromat Cafe
Address: Austurstræti 9, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Phone Number: +354 771 9660
The Laundromat Cafe Google Maps Link
Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
The Laundromat Cafe in Reykjavik is a fun and unique place to have brunch! As the name suggests, this cafe combines dining with laundry services, which makes it a one-of-a-kind spot. The atmosphere is vibrant and cozy, with bright colors and shelves full of books to enjoy while you eat.
One of the coolest things about The Laundromat Cafe is that you can order your food via a scan. This modern touch makes the dining experience even more convenient. The menu has a variety of delicious options for breakfast, brunch, and beyond. Whether you’re in the mood for pancakes, burgers, or sandwiches, you’ll find something tasty here.
The cafe has washing machines available, which is perfect if you need to get some clothes washed while traveling. The machines are a bit small though and can be expensive to run, but the concept is definitely fun and unique.
9. Kaffi Flóra
Address: Reykjavík Botanical Gardens, Laugardalur, 104 Reykjavík, Iceland
Phone Number: +354 553 8872
Kaffi Flóra Google Maps Link
Opening Hours:
May to September: Daily 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Kaffi Flóra is a wonderful spot located right in the middle of the Reykjavík Botanical Gardens. This café is truly a hidden gem, offering a unique experience where you can sit in a greenhouse surrounded by beautiful plants. Even though it’s a bit on the expensive side, the setting makes it worth every penny.
The café’s menu is inspired by Scandinavian food culture and features ingredients grown right there in the garden. You can enjoy a variety of seasonal dishes, and their weekend brunch is a highlight. Imagine having your meal among lush greenery, with the sunlight filtering through the glass and leaves – it’s like dining in a tropical paradise right in Iceland!
What makes Kaffi Flóra special is its commitment to fresh, organic ingredients. This not only ensures the freshness of the food but also adds to the charm of the place. From light salads to hearty soups, the dishes are flavorful and beautifully presented. Really worth a stop!