When out on self-drive adventures exploring the top places to see in East Iceland, you'll want to take time to enjoy the local food scene in Egilsstadir. The largest town in the Eastfjords is home to some of the top restaurants in East Iceland, and the food is a great incentive to plan a stay in Egilsstadir.
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Egilsstadir offers everything from quick bites like hot dogs to casual bistro meals and refined dining that showcases local ingredients and Icelandic food culture. The variety may be smaller than in Reykjavik, but Egilsstadir offers multiple reliable choices.
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This guide highlights the top restaurants in Egilsstadir, so you know exactly where to eat when your trip takes you through East Iceland!
Key Takeaways
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Glóð Restaurant is the top choice for a refined dining experience in Egilsstadir that highlights high-quality East Icelandic ingredients.
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Askur Taproom & Pizzeria is great for groups and families seeking hearty pizzas, burgers, and craft beer in a lively setting.
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Vök Bistro is ideal for travelers visiting Vök Baths, serving fresh, lighter dishes made with seasonal Icelandic produce.
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Salt Café & Bistro is the most budget-friendly option in Egilsstadir, offering casual comfort dishes at reasonable prices.
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Nielsen Restaurant (closed until 2026) is the go-to for elevated, chef-driven Icelandic cuisine in East Iceland during its seasonal opening.
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N1 gas station is the cheapest option in Egilsstadir for quick, ready-to-eat meals like hot dogs, sandwiches, and simpler dishes.
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Bonus and Netto supermarkets are the best choice for budget-minded travelers who want to stock up on groceries, snacks, or inexpensive meals in East Iceland.
5. Salt Café & Bistro
If you’re looking for a laid-back spot with plenty of choice, Salt Café & Bistro is the top choice. This popular restaurant in Egilsstadir is located right in the town center. It offers a broad selection of dishes that work well for families, groups, or anyone who wants a casual bite without fuss.
The menu at Salt Café & Bistro leans classic and casual: wood-fired pizzas, stacked burgers, fish and chips, and crisp salads. There’s also a range of vegetarian and vegan options, plus coffee and cakes if you're just making a quick stop.
Salt Café & Bistro doesn’t take reservations at the moment, but warmly welcomes all walk-ins.
Salt Café & Bistro Customer Ratings
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Google rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars from 1,156 reviews
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Tripadvisor rating: 3.2 out of 5 stars from 21 reviews
Address of Salt Café & Bistro
Miðvangur 2-4, 700 Egilsstadir, Iceland
Directions to Salt Café & Bistro
Salt Café & Bistro is centrally located in Egilsstadir, within easy walking distance of shops and services. Parking is available nearby, making it convenient if you’re arriving by car while traveling the Ring Road.
Salt Café & Bistro Open Hours
Monday to Sunday: 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM
4. Vök Bistro
Vök Bistro sits within the Vök Baths geothermal baths by Lake Urridavatn, only a few minutes' drive from Egilsstadir. The bistro is a nice bonus if you’ve already secured a Vök admission ticket. Here, you can follow up your relaxing bath with a good meal in a peaceful lakeside setting.
The menu at Vök Bistro focuses on fresh, lighter dishes, made from seasonal Icelandic produce. This includes a hearty soup of the day, salads, and warm bites like bruschetta, baked brie, crispy cauliflower, and mini burgers. You can also find smoothies, simple sweets, and kid-friendly options.
A lovely detail is the complementary tea bar, boasting a selection of organic and locally sourced herbal teas, brewed with pure hot spring water from the lake. The drinks menu also includes local craft beers that similarly use this geothermal water source.
Vök Bistro doesn’t require reservations, so you can simply drop in when it suits your plans.
Vök Bistro Customer Ratings
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Google rating: 4.1 out of 5 stars from 41 reviews
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Tripadvisor rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8 reviews
Address of Vök Bistro
Vök við Urriðavatn, 701 Egilsstadir, Iceland
Directions to Vök Bistro
Vök Bistro is inside the Vök Baths geothermal baths on Lake Urridavatn, just a few minutes’ drive from Egilsstadir. Once you arrive at the baths, the bistro entrance is clearly signposted within the main building. Parking is available on site.
Vök Bistro Open Hours
Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
3. Nielsen Restaurant
*Closed until summer 2026*
Set in one of Egilsstadir’s oldest and most charming houses, the summer-exclusive Nielsen Restaurant combines historic atmosphere with modern Icelandic cuisine. This is one of the top restaurants in Iceland and the place to go if you’re after something a little more refined while still staying true to local flavors.
The building itself dates back to the 19th century, giving the dining room a cozy yet elegant feel that stands out among restaurants in Egilsstadir.
The menu at Nielsen Restaurant changes seasonally, focusing on East Iceland’s best produce. Expect fresh Arctic char, free-range lamb, and creative vegetarian options, all prepared with a chef-driven approach that emphasizes both flavor and presentation.
Nielsen is known for elevating classic Icelandic ingredients into something memorable, making it one of the most highly recommended spots when deciding where to eat in Egilsstadir.
To secure a table, you can make a reservation at Nielsen Restaurant in advance.
Nielsen Restaurant Customer Ratings
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Google rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars from 282 reviews
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Tripadvisor rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars from 106 reviews
Address of Nielsen Restaurant
Kaupvangur 2, 700 Egilsstadir, Iceland
Directions to Nielsen Restaurant
Nielsen is located right in the center of Egilsstadir, within walking distance of shops and services. The historic wooden house is easy to spot, with its distinctive architecture setting it apart from the modern buildings nearby. Street parking is available close to the restaurant.
Nielsen Restaurant Open Hours
Closed until summer 2026. A re-opening date is yet to be announced.
2. Askur Taproom & Pizzeria
For casual dining with a lively atmosphere, Askur Pizzeria is one of the best restaurants in Egilsstadir. It’s especially popular with groups of friends and families because of its welcoming atmosphere, large tables, and menu that balances comfort food with quality ingredients.
The wood-fired pizzas on Askur's menu are the star of the show, ranging from simple classics to more inventive toppings featuring local lamb and vegetables. Alongside the pizzas, you’ll find hearty burgers and bar favorites that pair perfectly with a pint.
Askur Taproom, on the other side of the restaurant, is just as important as the food, with rotating selections of craft beer and cider from Icelandic producers, an extra draw for travelers looking to sample Iceland’s best brews.
Askur Taproom & Pizzeria Customer Ratings
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Google rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
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Tripadvisor rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
Address of Askur Taproom & Pizzeria
Fagradalsbraut 25, 700 Egilsstadir, Iceland
Directions to Askur Taproom & Pizzeria
Located right in the center of town, Askur is easy to reach on foot if you’re staying in Egilsstadir. Parking is available nearby, and its central position makes it convenient whether you’re stopping for lunch on the Ring Road or staying overnight in East Iceland.
Askur Taproom & Pizzeria Open Hours
Monday to Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
1. Glóð Restaurant
At the top of the list sits Glóð Restaurant, widely considered the best place to dine in Egilsstadir. It’s the kind of restaurant that travelers remember long after their trip, thanks to its thoughtful approach to modern Icelandic cuisine and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The menu at Glóð Restaurant blends creativity with tradition, showcasing East Iceland’s finest ingredients. Expect beautifully prepared fish dishes such as Arctic char or cod, tender lamb paired with seasonal vegetables, and inventive vegetarian plates that highlight the region’s greenhouse produce.
Glóð’s interior feels warm and inviting, with natural wood textures, soft lighting, and a laid-back atmosphere. Service is attentive, and reviews frequently praise both the food quality and the overall dining experience. It’s the perfect spot to celebrate the flavors of East Iceland.
To secure your dinner reservation, book a table at Glóð Restaurant in advance.
Glóð Restaurant Customer Ratings
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Google rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars from 185 reviews
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Tripadvisor rating: 3.9 out of 5 stars from 110 reviews
Address of Glóð Restaurant
Miðvangur 15, 700 Egilsstadir, Iceland
Directions to Glóð Restaurant
Glóð is centrally located in Egilsstadir, within walking distance of most accommodations and shops. Parking is available close by, and the restaurant is easy to find in the town center.
Glóð Restaurant Open Hours
Monday to Sunday: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price Ranges at Restaurants in Egilsstadir
Here are approximate price ranges to expect at the top restaurants in Egilsstadir.
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Glóð Restaurant - Main courses typically range from 3,500–7,500 ISK.
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Askur Taproom & Pizzeria - Pizzas and burgers usually range from 2,600–4,000 ISK.
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Salt Café & Bistro - Main dishes typically range from 3,000–4,000 ISK
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Vök Bistro - Light plates and small dishes generally range from 1,800–3,000 ISK.
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Nielsen Restaurant - Expect 2,900–5,000 ISK per dish when open.
We recommend checking the menus for accurate prices.
FAQs About Restaurants in Eglisstadir
Read answers to questions other travelers often ask about restaurants in Egilsstadir.
Are there any cheap places to eat in Egilsstadir?
Yes, though options are limited. The café at the N1 gas station serves affordable road-trip staples like hot dogs, sandwiches, and simple hot meals, making it a popular stop for travelers on a budget. For the lowest prices, you can shop at local supermarkets such as Bonus and Netto, where you’ll find groceries, snacks, and ready-to-eat items that are easy to take with you on the road.
Do I need to book restaurants in Egilsstadir in advance?
Most casual places, like cafés and bistros, don’t require reservations. However, it’s a good idea to book ahead for Glóð Restaurant or Nielsen Restaurant, especially in summer when East Iceland sees more visitors. Reserving ensures you won’t miss out on the best dining experiences in town.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options in Egilsstadir?
Yes. While traditional Icelandic cuisine leans heavily on fish and lamb, the majority of restaurants in Egilsstadir also offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Salt Café & Bistro and Vök Bistro both have plant-based options, and supermarkets like Netto carry vegetarian groceries and ready meals for those self-catering.
Savor the Best Flavors of Egilsstadir
Egilsstadir offers everything from comforting roadside classics to creative dishes made with fresh regional ingredients. Whether you're stopping for a quick bite on the Ring Road or settling in for a relaxed evening meal, the town’s restaurants provide a delicious way to experience the flavors of East Iceland.
Will you be dining in Egilsstadir on your next trip? Have you tried any of these restaurants before? Which spot are you most excited to visit? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comment section below!
