Brunch culture in Akureyri blends local tradition with international flair. Expect everything from skyr bowls and smoked salmon to pancakes, poached eggs, and sourdough sandwiches.
Some restaurants also offer a brunch buffet (hlaðborð) in Akureyri, often available on weekends, with multiple courses and optional drinks. Many spots open late morning and serve through early afternoon, with relaxed vibes, friendly service, and strong coffee always on the menu.
If you're planning to explore the region, pairing a slow brunch with a scenic drive or local activity is easy. Browse the best Akureyri tours in Iceland or rent a car in Akureyri to create a flexible, food-filled day around town and beyond.
And if you're a Guide to Iceland VIP Club member, you can enjoy exclusive discounts at selected brunch spots around Akureyri!
What Locals Eat for Brunch in Akureyri
Brunch in Akureyri isn’t just about mimosas or towering pancake stacks. In North Iceland, the midday meal is often more relaxed and rooted in local tradition. While modern cafes in town offer international-style dishes, many brunch options still reflect classic Icelandic flavors and ingredients.
Expect to see skyr bowls (a thick, protein-rich dairy staple) served with fresh berries, granola, and honey. Open-faced sandwiches on hearty rye bread (rúgbrauð) or flatbread (flatkaka) topped with smoked salmon, egg salad, or hangikjot (smoked lamb) are also popular.
Locals might enjoy freshly baked rolls with cheese, or warm pastries with butter and jam alongside strong black coffee. You’ll also find newer spots in Akureyri blending these traditions with cafe favorites like avocado toast, crepes, poached eggs, or house-made granola.
Brunch in Iceland moves at a slower pace. And in Akureyri, it’s a moment to sit back, savor what’s on the table, and enjoy the light filtering through a cafe window or the view across Eyjafjordur Fjord (Eyjafjörður).
Top 8 Brunch Spots in Akureyri With Set Menus and Hours
Looking for a proper brunch with dedicated hours and a full menu? These eight spots in Akureyri offer exactly that. Each one brings its own style to the table, whether you’re in the mood for something classic, casual, or a little indulgent.
8. Terian Brasserie
Photo from Terian Brasserie.
Situated on the ground floor of Hotel Kea, Terian Brasserie (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, 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, a bottomless drinks option is available, offering mimosas, prosecco, and beer for two hours.
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:
- Address: Hafnarstraeti 87–89, 600 Akureyri
- Brunch hours: Wednesdays to Sundays from 11:30 to 14:00
- Brunch menu highlights: Italian pastas, fruit bowls, smoked salmon, croissants, tiramisu, poached and scrambled eggs
- Nearby landmark: Akureyri Church (Akureyrarkirkja)
7. Aurora Restaurant
Photo from 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 12:00 to 14:00, 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 from Holtsel.
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.
Aurora is renowned for its use of fresh, local ingredients and attentive service. 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:
- Address: Thingvallastraeti 23, 600 Akureyri
- Brunch hours: Saturdays and Sundays from 12:00 to 14:00
- Brunch menu highlights: Poached eggs, avocado toast, English breakfast, croque sandwiches, celeriac steak, American pancakes
- Nearby landmark: Akureyri Swimming Pool
6. Forest Bistro
Photo from .
Forest Bistro is part of the Forest Lagoon (Skógarböðin), a beautiful geothermal spa just a short drive from central Akureyri. The restaurant is surrounded by forest and offers peaceful views of Eyjafjordur Fjord, Akureyri, Hlidarfjall Mountain (Hlíðarfjall), and the rural area of Eyjafjardarsveit (Eyjafjarðarsveit).
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 11:00 to 15:00. 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 a relaxing soak in the geothermal spa.
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:
- Address: Vadlaskogur, 605 Akureyri
- Brunch hours: Daily from 11:00 to 15:00
- Brunch menu highlights: Forest Brunch plate, black bean salad, American pancakes, vanilla skyr, vegan brunch options
- Nearby landmark: Forest Lagoon Geothermal Spa
5. Ketilkaffi
Photo from etilkaffi (@majarecka).
Ketilkaffi is a cozy cafe inside the Akureyri Art Museum (Listasafnið á Akureyri) 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 a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a quiet spot to enjoy a thoughtful meal.
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.
Their sourdough sandwiches 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:
- Address: Kaupvangsstraeti 8, 600 Akureyri
- Brunch hours: Daily from 07:30 to 17:00
- Brunch menu highlights: Poached eggs on sourdough, French toast, bacon and eggs, brunch platters, sourdough sandwiches
- Nearby landmark: Akureyri Art Museum
4. Cafe Berlin
Photo from Cafe Berlin.
Cafe Berlin is a cozy breakfast and coffee shop situated in the heart of Akureyri. 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 08:00 to 16:00, 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, fruits, a waffle, 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:
- Address: Skipagata 4, 600 Akureyri
- Brunch hours: Daily from 08:00 to 16:00
- Brunch menu highlights: Avocado toast, Belgian waffles with cream and caramel sauce, children's brunch plate
- Nearby landmark: Hof Cultural and Conference Center
3. 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.
Note: Even though it’s part of a hostel, prices are similar to what you’ll find at other restaurants in town.
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:
- Address: Hafnarstraeti 98, 600 Akureyri
- Brunch hours: Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 to 15:00
- Brunch menu highlights: Burgers, chicken tacos, fish burger, potato wedges, beer, and cocktails
- Nearby landmark: Akureyri Church (Akureyrarkirkja)
2. Strikid
Photo from Strikid.
If you want sweeping views over Akureyri’s harbor and surrounding mountains, head to Strikid (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 12:00 to 14:00.
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 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 reservations are recommended, 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:
- Address: Skipagata 14, 5th floor, 600 Akureyri
- Brunch hours: Saturdays and Sundays from 12:00 to 14:00
- Brunch menu highlights: Smoked salmon and avocado bagel, duck hirata, egg benedict, surf & turf, Icelandic pancakes with berries, kid’s brunch
- Nearby landmark: Hof Cultural and Conference Center
1. Kaffi Ilmur
Photo from 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 11:00 to 14:30, 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:
- Address: Hafnarstraeti 107b, 600 Akureyri
- Brunch hours: Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 to 14:30
- Brunch menu highlights: Eggs and bacon, English breakfast, huevos rancheros, shakshuka, porridge, waffles
- Nearby landmark: Akureyri Art Museum
More Great Places for a Casual Brunch in Akureyri
Not every brunch spot comes with a set menu or fixed hours, but that doesn’t make them any less enjoyable. These cafes and bakeries offer cozy settings, tasty dishes, and brunch-style meals that are just right for a relaxed morning or early afternoon in Akureyri.
LYST
Set in the heart of Akureyri Botanical Garden (Lystigarður Akureyrar), LYST is one of the best restaurants in Akureyri and a must-visit for anyone spending time in the north. 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 11:00 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.
If you're a Guide to Iceland VIP Club member, you’ll also receive a discount during your visit.
Things to Know Before You Visit LYST
Here are some quick details to help you plan your visit to this stylish Akureyri brunch spot:
- Address: Eyrarlandsvegur 30, 600 Akureyri
- Opening hours: Daily between 10:00 and 23:00
- Brunch-like menu highlights: Sourdough toasts with smoked Arctic char, avocado or hummus, pastries, hot chocolate, quality coffee
- Nearby landmark: Akureyri Botanical Garden
Blaa Kannan Cafe
Blaa Kannan Cafe (Bláa Kannan Café) is a charming little spot in the heart of Akureyri, housed in a bright blue building that's easy to spot downtown.
With its cozy interior, friendly English-speaking staff, and warm atmosphere, it’s a great place 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:
- Address: Hafnarstraeti 96, 600 Akureyri
- Opening hours: Daily from 09:00 to 22:00
- Brunch-like menu highlights: Cheesecake, chocolate cake, pepperoni panini, garden salad, coffee, tea
- Nearby landmark: Akureyri Church
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:
- Address: Hafnarstraeti 108, 600 Akureyri
- Opening hours: Daily from 08:00 to 16:00
- Brunch-like menu highlights: Chocolate chip cookies, cinnamon rolls, a variety of pastries, sandwiches, coffee, freshly squeezed orange juice
- Nearby landmark: Hof Cultural and Conference Center
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:
- Address: Dalsbraut 1, 600 Akureyri
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 07:00 to 17:00; Saturday and Sunday from 07:00 to 16:00
- Brunch-like menu highlights: Freshly baked breads, pastries, cakes, soups, sandwiches, pizzas, and traditional Icelandic fish dish on Thursdays
- Nearby landmark: Glerartorg Shopping Centre
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:
- Address: Strandgata 3, 600 Akureyri
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 11:30 to 20:00; Closed on Mondays
- Brunch-like menu highlights: Sweet and savory crepes, French macarons, customized cakes, organic coffee, wine, beers, and cocktails
- 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.
