Brunch in Akureyri is one of the best ways to start your day in North Iceland. Akureyri offers a wide range of excellent restaurants, with great options in the bustling town center to spots surrounded by stunning garden views, all worth adding to your itinerary.
Most Akureyri brunch spots open late in the morning and continue serving into the early afternoon, making them a relaxed option before exploring the region's must-see destinations with your rental car or trying exciting Akureyri activities.
The local brunch culture combines classic Icelandic food with international favorites. Expect dishes like skyr bowls, smoked salmon, pancakes, poached eggs, and sourdough sandwiches. On weekends, Akureyri brunch buffets are popular, where you can try a variety of plates with coffee, juice, or cocktails.
Read on to discover the best places for brunch in Akureyri and choose the right spot for your visit.
10. Bláa Kannan Café
Bláa Kannan Café is a charming little spot in the heart of Akureyri, housed in an iconic bright blue building that's easy to spot downtown.
With its cozy interior, friendly staff, and warm atmosphere, it’s a go-to place among locals to take a break from shopping or sightseeing. It’s also a popular choice for a comforting snack or drink after whale watching adventures in Iceland.
The cafe serves freshly baked goods, sweet treats like cheesecake and chocolate cake, and light savory options such as pepperoni paninis and salads. Coffee and tea are served all day, with milk alternatives available.
Whether you're after something sweet or something warm, this is a relaxing place to settle in.
Things to Know Before You Visit Blaa Kaanan Cafe
Here are some quick details to help you plan your visit to this convenient Akureyri brunch cafe:
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Address: Hafnarstraeti 96, 600 Akureyri
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Opening hours: Daily from 9 AM to 10 PM
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Brunch menu highlights: Brunch platter, quiche, open sandwiches, pepperoni panini, garden salad
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Nearby landmark: Akureyri Church
9. Terían Brasserie
Situated on the ground floor of Hotel Kea, Terían Brasserie brings a sophisticated blend of French and Italian cuisine to the heart of Akureyri. The restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely brunch.
Brunch is available from Wednesday to Sunday, starting at 11:30 AM, with guests able to choose from three, five, or seven courses. The menu features beautifully presented plates like smoked salmon with citrus cream cheese, crispy ravioli filled with stracciatella, and American pancakes with berries and maple syrup.
For a more indulgent visit, you can go for the bottomless drinks option, lasting for two hours, offering mimosas, prosecco, and beer.
Terian’s brunch menu includes options that cater to gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan diets. Whether you're looking for a light course or a full spread, the restaurant offers a refined and flexible experience that stands out in Akureyri’s brunch scene.
Things to Know Before You Visit Terian Brasserie
Here are some quick details to help you plan your visit to this upscale Akureyri brunch restaurant:
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Address: Hafnarstraeti 87–89, 600 Akureyri
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Brunch hours: Wednesdays to Sundays from 11:30 AM to 2 PM
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Brunch menu highlights: Italian pastas, fruit bowls, smoked salmon, croissants, tiramisu, poached and scrambled eggs
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Nearby landmark: Akureyri Church
8. Aurora Restaurant
Aurora Restaurant, located within the Berjaya Akureyri Hotel, offers a serene and cozy setting for brunch in Akureyri. With its warm ambiance enhanced by a fireplace and views of the hotel garden, it's an inviting spot year-round.
Every Saturday and Sunday from 12 AM to 2 PM, Aurora serves its "Sparkling Brunch." Guests can choose from two, three, or four-course menus, featuring dishes like poached eggs, avocado toast, croque sandwiches, and celeriac steak. Desserts include American pancakes with chocolate and berries, fresh fruit, and sorbet.
For an additional fee, guests can enjoy unlimited drinks for two hours, including prosecco, Gull Lite, Carlsberg lager, and mimosas.
Note: You can inform their server of any of your allergies or intolerances, and they will happily accommodate you.
Whether seated indoors by the fireplace or outside on the south-facing terrace during fair weather, diners can expect a delightful experience. Plus, it’s right in front of Akureyri Swimming Pool, one of the best swimming pools in Iceland, making it a perfect stop before or after a swim.
Things to Know Before You Visit Aurora Restaurant
Here are some quick details to help you plan your visit to this refined Akureyri brunch place:
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Address: Thingvallastraeti 23, 600 Akureyri
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Brunch hours: Saturdays and Sundays from 12 AM to 2 PM
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Brunch menu highlights: Poached eggs, avocado toast, English breakfast, croque sandwiches, celeriac steak, American pancakes
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Nearby landmark: Akureyri Swimming Pool
7. Forest Lagoon Bistro
Forest Bistro is part of the Forest Lagoon, a beautiful geothermal spa just a short drive from central Akureyri. The restaurant is surrounded by forest and offers peaceful views of Akureyri, the towering Hlidarfjall Mountain, and the surrounding Eyjafjordur Fjord.
Inside, it’s warm and cozy with a fireplace, and there’s also an outdoor terrace where you can enjoy your meal surrounded by nature.
Brunch is served every day from 11 AM to 3 PM. The most popular option is the Forest Brunch, which includes poached eggs, smoked salmon or bacon, cherry tomatoes, two kinds of cheese, béarnaise sauce, pancakes, brioche bread, and fruit. It also comes with juice or coffee.
The menu has other choices too, like black bean salad, chicken salad, and a vegan brunch plate.
It’s a calm and scenic place to enjoy a good meal, right before or after your visit to the Forest Lagoon.
Things to Know Before You Visit Forest Bistro
Here are some quick details to help you plan your visit to this scenic Akureyri brunch spot:
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Address: Vadlaskogur, 605 Akureyri
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Brunch hours: Daily from 11 AM to 3 PM
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Brunch menu highlights: Forest Brunch plate, black bean salad, American pancakes, vanilla skyr, vegan brunch options
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Nearby landmark: Forest Lagoon Geothermal Spa
6. Ketilkaffi
Photo from Ketilkaffi.
Ketilkaffi is a cozy cafe inside the Akureyri Art Museum with a peaceful atmosphere and creative charm. Local artwork lines the walls, books and handmade crafts fill the shelves, and a colorful mural brightens the sidewalk outside.
It’s also a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a quiet spot to enjoy a truly great brunch in Akureyri.
Brunch is served all day, every day, with a menu that covers both classic and creative options. You’ll find poached eggs on sourdough in three variations: ham, avocado, or smoked trout with hollandaise.
They also offer French toast, bacon and eggs, and a brunch platter with fruit, sourdough bread, and customizable add-ons.
The brunch platter is truly a highlight on the menu, and we highly recommend it!
Their sourdough sandwiches are also great and come with fillings like chorizo and brie or hummus and avocado. Drinks range from strong drip coffee and specialty teas to smoothies and brunch cocktails like mimosas and bellinis.
Things to Know Before You Visit Ketilkaffi
Here are some quick details to help you plan your visit to this cozy Akureyri brunch spot:
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Address: Kaupvangsstraeti 8, 600 Akureyri
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Brunch hours: Daily from 07:30 AM to 5 PM
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Brunch menu highlights: Brunch platters, poached eggs on sourdough, French toast, bacon and eggs, sourdough sandwiches
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Nearby landmark: Akureyri Art Museum
5. Cafe Berlin
Photo from Café Berlin.
Cafe Berlin is a cozy breakfast and coffee shop that's become an integral part of Akureyri culture and history. It offers a relaxed atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating options.
The cafe is renowned for its friendly staff and a menu that caters to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Brunch is served every day from 8 AM to 4 PM, featuring dishes like bacon and egg, avocado toast, smoked salmon, and waffles with cream and caramel sauce. They also serve children's brunch plates that include bacon, egg, toast, fruit, waffles, and juice.
While the cafe can get a bit crowded during peak hours, the overall dining experience remains pleasant, with generous portions and affordable prices.
Things to Know Before You Visit Cafe Berlin
Here are some quick details to help you plan your visit to this vegan-friendly Akureyri brunch spot:
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Address: Skipagata 4, 600 Akureyri
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Brunch hours: Daily from 8 AM to 4 PM
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Brunch menu highlights: Avocado toast, Belgian waffles with cream and caramel sauce, and children's brunch plate
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Nearby landmark: Hof Cultural and Conference Center
4. Akureyri Backpackers
Located in the town center, Akureyri Backpackers is a hostel with a casual cafe and bar on its ground floor.
It's a popular spot with both travelers and locals thanks to its cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and filling food. The space has a warm, relaxed vibe, and it’s a good place to enjoy a meal or just sit back with a drink.
Brunch is served on weekends and includes satisfying dishes like burgers, chicken tacos, and potato wedges. The fish burger and classic cheeseburger are especially popular.
Drinks are also a highlight here, with a wide choice of beer and cocktails.
The cafe can get busy during peak hours, so you might wait a bit longer for food. Still, most people find the friendly service and fun setting worth the wait.
Things to Know Before You Visit Akureyri Backpackers
Here are some quick details to help you plan your visit to this casual Akureyri brunch place:
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Address: Hafnarstraeti 98, 600 Akureyri
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Brunch hours: Saturdays and Sundays from 10 AM to 3 PM
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Brunch menu highlights: Burgers, chicken tacos, fish burger, potato wedges, beer, and cocktails
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Nearby landmark: Akureyri Church
3. Strikið
If you want sweeping views over Akureyri’s harbor and surrounding mountains, head to Strikið. This rooftop restaurant, located on the 5th floor of a modern office building, is known for its stylish setting, attentive service, and inventive Icelandic cuisine.
Their weekend brunch, called “Bunch of Brunch,” is served every Saturday and Sunday from 12 PM to 2 PM.
The menu includes a variety of appetizers like deep-fried Icelandic potatoes and American pancakes. Main courses feature smoked salmon and avocado on a topless bagel, duck hirata, and egg Benedict on grilled sourdough. For dessert, you’ll find churros with caramel and Icelandic pancakes served with berries.
Note: The brunch is priced at around 57 USD (ISK 6,990 per person), with children under 12 paying half price.
The restaurant's ambiance is relaxed yet refined, and the staff is known for their exceptional service. While it's recommended to book a table at Strikið ahead of time, especially for groups, walk-ins are often accommodated.
Things to Know Before You Visit Strikid
Here are some quick details to help you plan your visit to this stylish Akureyri brunch restaurant:
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Brunch hours: Saturdays and Sundays from 12:00 to 14:00
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Brunch menu highlights: Smoked salmon and avocado bagel, duck hirata, egg benedict, surf & turf, Icelandic pancakes with berries, kid’s brunch
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Nearby landmark: Hof Cultural and Conference Center
2. Kaffi Ilmur
Housed in one of Akureyri’s oldest buildings, Kaffi Ilmur is a charming cafe that ranks among the top dining spots in North Iceland. The building, dating back to the early 20th century, has been lovingly restored by the original owner's granddaughter, preserving its historical essence.
Inside, you'll find a warm atmosphere enriched by traditional Icelandic music and friendly staff, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.
Weekend brunch is served from 11 AM to 2:30 PM, offering a variety of dishes such as eggs and bacon, English breakfast, huevos rancheros, shakshuka, porridge, waffles, toast, and sausages.
The cafe is also renowned for its homemade cakes, including gluten-free options like date and chocolate cream cake, and the moist pear cake with a non-greasy chocolate cream.
Note: While the food is delightful and reasonably priced, it's worth noting that service can be a bit slow during peak hours, so it's best to visit when you're not in a hurry.
Things to Know Before You Visit Kaffi Ilmur
Here are some quick details to help you plan your visit to this homey Akureyri brunch cafe:
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Address: Hafnarstraeti 107b, 600 Akureyri
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Brunch hours: Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 to 14:30
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Brunch menu highlights: Eggs and bacon, English breakfast, huevos rancheros, shakshuka, porridge, waffles
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Nearby landmark: Akureyri Art Museum
1. LYST
Set in the heart of Akureyri Botanical Garden, LYST is one of the best restaurants in Akureyri and a must-visit for anyone spending time in North Iceland.
With its iconic floor-to-ceiling windows inspired by the surrounding trees, the cafe is filled with natural light and a peaceful atmosphere. Whether you sit by the window or outside among the garden paths, the setting is as memorable as the food.
LYST opens daily from 11 AM and is a go-to spot for brunch, lunch, or a relaxed afternoon treat. You’ll find quality coffee, hot chocolate, and a range of pastries.
They also offer open-faced sourdough toasts topped with smoked Arctic char and cream cheese, avocado spread, or date jam with hummus and olives. The dishes are fresh and simple but always well-made.
Things to Know Before You Visit LYST
Here are some quick details to help you plan your visit to this stylish Akureyri brunch spot:
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Address: Eyrarlandsvegur 30, 600 Akureyri
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Opening hours: Monday - Thursday: 10 AM - 9 PM, Friday - Saturday: 10 AM - 11 PM, Sundays: 10 AM - 7 PM.
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Brunch-like menu highlights: Sourdough toasts with smoked Arctic char, avocado or hummus, pastries, hot chocolate, quality coffee
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Nearby landmark: Akureyri Botanical Garden
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LYST is part of the Guide to Iceland VIP Club
Top 3 Akureyri Bakeries
For those who prefer a lighter start to the day, these Akureyri bakeries offer delicious brunch-like treats. These local favourites are especially great for takeaway treats to enjoy during a self-drive adventure in North Iceland!
3. Sykurverk Cafe
Photo from Sykurverk Cafe.
Sykurverk Cafe is a vibrant and eye-catching cafe located in the heart of Akureyri. The interior decor is a dream for anyone who loves the color pink, creating a fun and lively atmosphere.
Their menu features both sweet and savory crepes (crêpes), Icelandic "braudterta (brauðterta)" (layered sandwich cake), pizza rolls, and sandwiches. For those with a sweet tooth, they serve beautifully crafted cakes, French macarons, cupcakes, and Icelandic meringue cakes. Beverage options include organic coffee, milkshakes, wine, beer, and cocktails.
The cafe also caters to various dietary preferences, offering vegan options such as vegan crepes, cakes, and milk alternatives for drinks.
Things to Know Before You Visit Sykurverk Cafe
Here are some quick details to help you plan your visit to this pink-colored Akureyri brunch cafe:
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Address: Strandgata 3, 600 Akureyri
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Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 11:30 to 20:00; Closed on Mondays
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Brunch-like menu highlights: Sweet and savory crepes, French macarons, customized cakes, organic coffee, wine, beers, and cocktails
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Nearby landmark: Hof Cultural and Conference Center
2. Bakariid vid Bruna
Photo from Bakariid vid Bruna.
Bakariid vid Bruna (Bakaríið við Brúna) is a charming bakery and cafe located just behind the Glerartorg Shopping Centre (Glerártorg) in Akureyri. Known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly service, it's a perfect spot not only for breakfast in Akureyri, but also for lunch or an afternoon coffee.
The bakery offers a wide variety of freshly baked breads, pastries, and cakes, all made on-site daily. They also serve light meals, including soups, sandwiches, and pizzas, with a special traditional Icelandic fish dish available on Thursdays.
The cafe area features unique hand-painted tables, each depicting a map from different Icelandic towns to the bakery, adding a personal touch to your dining experience.
Things to Know Before You Visit Bakariid vid Bruna
Here are some quick details to help you plan your visit to this charming Akureyri brunch place:
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Address: Dalsbraut 1, 600 Akureyri
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Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 07:00 to 17:00; Saturday and Sunday from 07:00 to 16:00
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Brunch-like menu highlights: Freshly baked breads, pastries, cakes, soups, sandwiches, pizzas, and traditional Icelandic fish dish on Thursdays
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Nearby landmark: Glerartorg Shopping Centre
1. Kristjan's Bakery
Photo from Kristjan's Bakery.
Kristjan's Bakery (Kristjánsbakarí) is one of Iceland’s oldest bakeries, established in 1912, and remains a beloved spot in Akureyri for fresh pastries and coffee. Located on the town’s main street, it’s a convenient stop for a sweet treat or light meal while exploring the city center.
The bakery offers a variety of freshly baked goods, including chocolate chip cookies, cinnamon rolls, and a selection of cakes and pastries. They also serve sandwiches and provide a range of beverages like coffee, freshly squeezed orange juice, and other soft drinks.
With free Wi-Fi and charging outlets available, it's a comfortable place to relax during your visit.
Things to Know Before You Visit Kristjan's Bakery
Here are some quick details to help you plan your visit to this local-favorite Akureyri brunch spot:
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Address: Hafnarstraeti 108, 600 Akureyri
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Opening hours: Daily from 08:00 to 16:00
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Brunch-like menu highlights: Chocolate chip cookies, cinnamon rolls, a variety of pastries, sandwiches, and coffee
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Nearby landmark: Hof Cultural and Conference Center
Ready to Discover the Best Brunch in Akureyri?
From garden cafes to waterfront restaurants and cozy bakeries tucked into the town center, Akureyri’s brunch scene is full of character, flavor, and relaxed charm. Whether you’re planning a weekend treat, fueling up before a day trip, or just craving a perfect plate of pancakes with a view, there’s a spot here that suits your style.
If you’re continuing your trip around Iceland, you might also want to explore the best brunch in Reykjavik for capital-based options. Or check out the top things to do in Akureyri to round out your northern adventure. No matter how you plan your day, starting it with a good brunch in Akureyri is always a great idea.
Have you tried any of these brunch spots? Are there any that we missed? Will you visit Akureyri this year? Share your thoughts and experience in the comment section below!
