I first heard about The Laundromat Café years ago from my hairdresser in Prague, who described it as a must-visit in Reykjavik. So when I moved to Iceland, it was the very first restaurant I tried, and it exceeded my expectations. The food is always fresh, the menu suits all diets, and the welcoming staff and laid-back atmosphere keep me coming back.
Located in downtown Reykjavik at Austurstræti 9, The Laundromat Café is just a short walk from top attractions like Hallgrímskirkja Church and Harpa Concert Hall. It’s an easy stop while exploring the city and fits nicely into any day out, whether you’re sightseeing, shopping, or meeting up for a bite.
Three of us stopped by for a cozy lunch on a rainy weekday and were quickly reminded why it’s a local favorite. If you’re in Reykjavik, The Laundromat Café is one place you’ll want to make time for.
The Laundromat Café: Cozy Retro Café in Downtown Reykjavik
View of the bar from a front table at The Laundromat Café in Reykjavik.
We visited during lunchtime, and the moment we stepped inside, we were greeted by friendly staff, red leather booths, window seats perfect for people-watching, relaxing background music, and the heavenly smell of brunch cooking.
The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, with bookshelves around the bar and a gentle buzz of conversation filling the space. This is a great time to visit if you are dining solo with a book, enjoying brunch with friends, or wrangling kids between pancakes.
Downstairs, there are more than just restrooms- there is a real working laundromat and a spacious family area with extra seating. A dedicated kids’ corner, complete with puzzles, books, and soft toys, makes it especially family-friendly. The wraparound bar upstairs adds a relaxed social vibe for those grabbing drinks or dining more casually.
What To Eat at The Laundromat Café: Best Brunch, Burgers, and Coffee Picks
The delicious "dirty brunch", with sausages, bacon, scrambled eggs, and more - a must-try!
Service was quick, friendly, and helpful from the moment we arrived. The staff gladly offered recommendations, and we took them up on the Queen of Denmark burger and the Dirty Brunch plate, both excellent choices.
The Dirty Brunch plate was equally satisfying, packed with hearty portions of scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, roasted tomato and potatoes, sourdough toast, and a generous bowl of Greek yoghurt with granola.
The yoghurt was a delicious ending to the brunch with crunchy and creamy textures, and just the right amount of sweetness.
The juicy "Queen of Denmark" burger with perfectly seasoned fries.
The Queen of Denmark burger was a standout: incredibly juicy with a perfectly balanced flavor profile that started off savory and finished with a mild, sweet-and-spicy aftertaste.
It came with crispy onion rings that had just the right amount of crunch on the outside and a tender inside. On the side, the fries were golden, well-seasoned, and addictive.
The healthy and mouthwatering Avocado toast with sunny-side-up egg.
We also tried the avocado toast topped with a sunny-side-up egg, which was fresh, wholesome, and beautifully presented. To drink, we ordered the freshly pressed green juice (light and refreshing), a creamy chai latte, and smooth oat cappuccinos.
The kitchen was flexible with dietary preferences, offering vegetarian and vegan options and even asking how we’d like our eggs cooked, something that made the meal feel personal and considered.
Generous portions, fair prices for Reykjavik, and great attention to detail all came together to make this visit memorable.
Regular and oat milk cappuccinos and fresh-made green juice from Laundromat Café.
Best Things To Try at The Laundromat Café in Reykjavik
From comforting brunch classics to refreshing drinks and indulgent treats, The Laundromat Café has something for every taste. These are some of our top picks from the menu—tried, tested, and absolutely worth ordering:
- Queen of Denmark burger with fries – Juicy, flavorful, and finished with a mild, sweet-and-spicy kick; the fries are golden and perfectly seasoned.
- The Dirty Brunch plate – A generous and satisfying combo of eggs, pancakes, bacon, sausage, and yogurt with just the right balance of sweet and savory.
- Avocado toast with sunny-side-up egg – Light, fresh, and beautifully seasoned—a great vegetarian option.
- The fluffy Blueberry pancakes – Soft, comforting, and packed with blueberries; perfect for a cozy breakfast or sweet brunch treat.
- Freshly made green juice – Bright and refreshing with a zingy finish—ideal if you’re looking for something healthy.
- Chai latte and oat cappuccino – Smooth, rich, and expertly made; perfect for a relaxing moment or post-meal sip.
- Classic milkshake (creamy and nostalgic) – Thick, indulgent, and served with a dose of retro charm—great for both kids and grown-ups.
Great Service, Family-Friendly Dining, and a Real Laundromat
A cozy table by the entrance of the Laundromat Cafe, people-watching with a cappuccino in hand.
The service was fast, friendly, and impressively helpful. Our server was enthusiastic about every dish we ordered and offered helpful tips on customizing for dietary needs. Vegetarian requests were handled with ease, and food arrived quickly, even during a busy brunch rush.
Prices are typical for downtown Reykjavik, but generous portions and quality ingredients make it a great value. You can order easily using a QR code or directly at the bar, and there’s free Wi-Fi for those who want to work, scroll, or share brunch snaps.
It is one of the best places to eat in Reykjavik with kids because the downstairs level features a spacious seating area with a dedicated kids' corner, complete with a toy chest full of books, puzzles, games, and soft toys.
This area is perfect for keeping little ones entertained while adults enjoy a peaceful meal or coffee break. There’s plenty of room for strollers, and high chairs are readily available.
Combined with the warm, attentive staff and relaxed vibe, it’s the kind of place where families can feel at ease, whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or settling in for a longer visit.
The Laundromat Café isn’t just a name; it really does have a laundromat downstairs, and it’s fully functional. Tucked beneath the café’s dining area, the laundry room is bright, clean, and decked out with red washing machines and dryers.
It’s perfect for travelers staying nearby who need to freshen up their wardrobe while enjoying a coffee or a meal upstairs. Soap can be conveniently purchased at the bar, and the space also includes restrooms and a spacious seating area, plus a play zone with toys for kids.
Whether you’re doing a quick load or just curious, it adds a quirky and practical twist to the overall experience.
Opening Hours, Menu Availability & How To Get to The Laundromat Café in Reykjavik
Craving a slow breakfast, a quick lunch, or a casual dinner? The Laundromat Café is open throughout the week with flexible hours to suit your plans:
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Mon–Tue: 09:00–21:00
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Wed: 09:00–20:00
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Thu–Fri: 09:00–22:00
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Sat: 10:00–22:00
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Sun: 10:00–18:00
You might stop in for pancakes to start the day or end it with a burger and a beer, whatever you’re in the mood for, there’s usually something on the menu that fits just right. Here is when to visit the Laundromat Café based on what you want to eat and drink:
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Brunch: Daily from opening until 4:00 PM
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Burgers & Mains: From 11:30 AM until closing
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Beer & Cocktails: From 11:00 (in accordance with Icelandic alcohol laws)
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Coffee, Juices, Smoothies & Milkshakes: Available anytime during opening hours
Check out The Laundromat Café's official website for more information before your visit.
Street view at Austurstræti 9 of Laundromat Cafe.
You’ll find it at Austurstræti 9, 101 Reykjavík, just steps from Lækjartorg Square. It’s easy to walk to from most downtown attractions, including Hallgrímskirkja and Harpa Concert Hall, and a perfect stop while exploring shops, museums, or the old harbor.
The Laundromat Café is also easy to get to by bus, right in downtown Reykjavík. The Lækjartorg bus stop is just a 2 minute walk away and served by most major bus routes.
If you're arriving by car (like we did), park at the Traðarkot parking garage (a 3–5 minute walk) or use one of the nearby metered street spots.
Final Thoughts: Why The Laundromat Café is One of Reykjavik’s Best Cafés
The Laundromat Café is the kind of spot that makes you want to settle in and stay a while. It welcomes all kinds of visits, whether you're sipping a quiet cappuccino solo, meeting friends for brunch, wrangling kids near the toy chest, or even getting a load of laundry done between bites. It’s not just a place to eat, it’s a place that feels familiar, even on your first visit.
Don’t miss the Queen of Denmark burger with fries, which is definitely worth the hype, or the Dirty Brunch plate for a hearty start to the day. Grab a window booth, sip a creamy oat cappuccino, and take your time. It’s a spot we’ll gladly return to next time we’re in the neighborhood.
