The Vegan & Vegetarian Guide to Reykjavik
- Tips for Vegan & Vegetarian Dining in Reykjavik
- Eating Vegetarian and Vegan in Iceland
- Where to Buy Vegetarian and Vegan Food in Iceland
- Top 5 Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants Reykjavik Has to Offer
- Chickpea
- Vegan World Peace
- Loving Hut
- Mama
- Kaffihusid Gardurinn | Ecstasy's Heart Garden
- Top 10 Restaurants with Vegan and Vegetarian Menu Options in Reykjavik
- Litli Barinn
- Fjallkonan
- Himalayan Spice
- Kopar
- Reykjavik Kitchen
- Hosilo
- Salka Valka Kitchen
- Kruska
- MatBar
- Sumac
- Best Vegan and Vegetarian Cafés In Reykjavik
- The Laundromat Café
- Grai Kotturinn
- Kaffihus Vesturbaejar
- Deig
- Emilie and the Cool Kids
- Best Vegetarian and Vegan Street Food Spots
- Saffran
- Lamb Street Food
- Mandi
- Black Dragon
- Does Reykjavik Offer Enough Vegetarian and Vegan Options for You?
- FAQs About Vegan and Vegetarian Food in Reykjavik
- Get Ready to Dine Out in Reykjavik
When traveling, the first questions on any vegetarian’s or vegan’s minds are about food. What are the best vegan restaurants Reykjavik has to offer? What are the best options for vegan and vegetarian food in Reykjavik? Is the selection plentiful or limited?
Reykjavik has evolved from a quiet capital to a must-visit destination over the last decade, and that growth has spurred its dining options to increase dramatically and deliciously.
Options for fine dining have never been better, with an array of restaurants offering fresh, traditional Icelandic ingredients prepared with international fusions. The same progress has thankfully been happening for vegan and vegetarian options.
Many restaurants in Reykjavik's impressive food scene offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, and the city has a growing number of restaurants that only serve vegetarian and vegan fare.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best Reykjavik has to offer for plant-based eating. Read on to discover where to go and what to get in our list of the top vegan and vegetarian restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores in Reykjavik.
Tips for Vegan & Vegetarian Dining in Reykjavik
- Reykjavik has a thriving vegan and vegetarian food scene – Nearly every restaurant offers plant-based options, and several establishments are fully dedicated to vegan and vegetarian cuisine.
- Grocery stores like Kronan make plant-based eating convenient – Kronan offers the widest selection of vegan products in Iceland, making it easy for travelers to stock up, especially before exploring the countryside.
- There are options for all budgets and dining preferences – From casual street food and cozy cafés to upscale dining, Reykjavik has plant-based meals to suit every traveler’s preferences.
- Plan ahead for the best experience – some of Reykjavik’s top vegan and vegetarian restaurants require reservations, so book a table in advance for a memorable dining experience.
- Food tours offer a great way to explore local plant-based cuisine – joining food and drink tours will introduce you to Icelandic flavors while catering to vegan and vegetarian diets.
Eating Vegetarian and Vegan in Iceland
Today, nearly every dining establishment in Iceland features at least one or two vegan options on its menu. Grocery stores have also embraced this trend, now stocking a wide range of vegan products. For those who want a deeper dive into the local cuisine, you can even join a special vegetarian food tour of Reykjavik.
If you’re a member of the Guide to Iceland VIP Club, you can even enjoy exclusive discounts and special offers at many of the best spots to enhance your dining experience.
If your accommodations in Iceland include a kitchen, you’ll have the opportunity to prepare your own meals and try local ingredients. This can be especially convenient if you’re planning self-drive tours with a rental car; stock up on groceries at the start of your journey and enjoy cooking along the way.
- Find out Where to Stay in Reykjavik
- Get to know The Best Restaurants in Reykjavik
- Read about Where to Eat in Reykjavik: 12 Spots for Dining on a Budget
- See more: The VIP Club: Save Big on Exclusive Offers & Discounts
Where to Buy Vegetarian and Vegan Food in Iceland
The Krónan on Hallveigarstigur street in downtown Reykjavik.
Plant-based options are available at all Reykjavik grocery stores, but one grocery store stands out for its selection. Kronan offers the best range of vegan and vegetarian groceries in Iceland by far, with vegan meat substitutes, dairy alternatives, pastries, fresh ingredients, as well as the standard selection of toiletries and more.
Since Iceland is considered an expensive destination, many visitors choose to shop for groceries in Iceland so they can cook some of their meals.
With some of the lowest prices for vegan food in Reykjavik, it’s the store visitors and locals alike choose.
If you're planning to leave more popular cities to explore the countryside of Iceland with a rental campervan, we highly recommend buying plenty of groceries before you leave Reykjavik. Vegan options can be hard to come by in the countryside, so stock up in one of the Kronan stores in the Capital Region.
There are also Kronan stores in Akureyri, in North Iceland, in Vik, along the South Coast, and in Reydarfjordur, in the Eastfjords, but Reykjavik stores tend to have the best selection.
- Learn more: Shopping for Groceries in Iceland
- See also: How Expensive is Iceland?
Top 5 Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants Reykjavik Has to Offer
These Reykjavik establishments offer only vegetarian or vegan options and offer excellent selections for a completely meat-free lunch and dinner.
Chickpea
Chickpea is a family-run restaurant that serves whole food. All their food is vegetarian and can be made vegan upon request.
As the name implies, their tasty options feature the versatile chickpea as the star ingredient. So, of course, their falafel is highly regarded.
They even ferment their own veggies and fruits. Try their delicious homemade falafel wraps, pitas, and bowls or their current special dish for the week.
It's a bit off the beaten path, but you can find it in the same building as the Kronan supermarket in central Reykjavik. The location is rather small. It’s primarily a takeout restaurant, but there is some barstool seating along the windows.
The food is popular with vegan, vegetarian, and meat-eating locals alike and pretty affordable by Icelandic standards. The restaurant's laid-back, friendly atmosphere, coupled with its commitment to wholesome, sustainable food, makes it a go-to choice for an affordable vegetarian or vegan meal in Reykjavik.
Chickpea
- Location: Hallveigarstigur 1, 101 Reykjavik.
- Open: Monday to Saturday, 10 AM – 8 PM; Closed on Sundays
Vegan World Peace
Vegan World Peace is an award-winning European-style vegan restaurant Reykjavik locals love in downtown Reykjavík, Iceland. Housed in a historic building dating back to the 1860s, the restaurant offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere.
The menu spotlights upscale pan-Asian dishes, beautifully plated and prepared with 100% vegan ingredients. Many options are also suitable for gluten-free customers.
Some favorite dishes include Korean Noodles, Mapo Tofu, Pho, and a vegan take on Kung Pao chicken. Vegan World Peace is certainly considered one of the best vegan restaurants in Reykjavik.
Vegan World Peace
- Location: Adalstraeti 2, 101 Reykjavik
- Open: Monday to Saturday, 11 AM – 9 PM; Sundays, 4 PM – 9 PM
Loving Hut
Photo from Loving Hut Iceland.
Loving Hut Iceland is a short walk from the city center but well worth the trip.
It's a popular choice for the locals as they offer very affordable and varied vegan dishes, from soup, salads, noodles, rolls, and burgers, as well as tasty desserts. They also have regular, affordable, all-you-can-eat buffets with discounts for children. It's worth visiting for the variety, budget-friendliness, and filling meals.
Loving Hut Iceland
- Location: Laugavegur 164, 105 Reykjavik.
- Open: Monday to Saturday, 11 AM - 10 PM. Sundays, 4 PM - 10 PM.
Mama
Mama is a popular restaurant located on Laugavegur, the main shopping street in Reykjavik. This makes it an especially convenient option when exploring the city.
The completely plant-based menu is a creative blend of Icelandic tastes and international influences, promising an exciting dining experience for vegetarians, vegans, and food enthusiasts in general. They also offer an assortment of different tea blends and other drinks that are worth a try.
Its staff strives to create an environment of well-being and give back to the community, which results in a very friendly and welcoming restaurant atmosphere. They emphasize recycling, no food waste, and no use of plastic. They also choose to use seasonal ingredients for their dishes to ensure quality and freshness.
Mama
- Location: Laugavegur 2, 101 Reykjavik.
- Open: Every Day, 12 PM – 10 PM
Kaffihusid Gardurinn | Ecstasy's Heart Garden
“No price is too great to pay for inner peace,” are the words of Sri Chinmoy, a spiritual teacher whose philosophy inspires a global group of meditators who happen to run a selection of vegetarian cafés and restaurants in cities around the world.
One of these establishments is Kaffihusid Gardurinn, also known as Ecstasy's Heart Garden, nested in the center of Reykjavik for two decades.
Before 2015, Gardurinn was the only completely vegetarian joint in town and is still considered by many to be the best vegetarian restaurant Reykjavik has. With a diverse menu that changes weekly, there are many great homemade options to choose from.
Kaffihusid Gardurinn offers a soup of the day, which is vegan, as is the accompanying bread. The staff is always careful to ask you if you prefer butter or hummus as a spread.
They also offer a fabulous selection of desserts – just ask which ones are vegan, and they’ll tell you. For a simple, homemade dining experience at economical prices, head on to Ecstasy's Heart Garden and feel the love and enlightenment.
Kaffihusid Gardurinn
- Location: Klappastigur 37, 101 Reykjavik.
- Open: Monday - Friday, 11 AM - 6:30 PM, except Wednesdays, 11 AM - 5 PM. Saturdays, 12 PM - 5 PM. Closed Sundays
Top 10 Restaurants with Vegan and Vegetarian Menu Options in Reykjavik
These are the top 10 restaurants in Reykjavik that offer vegan and vegetarian options on their menus, making it easy for groups of all dietary needs to agree.
They offer different experiences and price ranges, so there's something on the list for everyone.
Litli Barinn
Litli Barinn is a charming neighborhood bar and restaurant in the downtown area of Reykjavik. Their menu features a delightful selection of vegetarian small plates and mains, perfect for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Some of their dishes are also vegan-friendly, with plans to expand their range with even more options in the future.
Litli Barinn mixes a variety of delicious cocktails along with a great wine selection by the glass or bottle. You can also enjoy Icelandic beer or go for non-alcoholic drinks if you prefer. The prices are reasonable, and they have happy hour from 3 to 6 PM.
To save even more on your visit, members of the Guide to Iceland VIP Club get a 20% discount on the food menu, and if you order a bottle of wine, you get a complimentary small dish to go with it.
The cozy atmosphere of this restaurant bar makes it a perfect casual stop when exploring Reykjavik. You'll be able to enjoy some unique dishes inspired by Icelandic history and culture.
For comfortable seats and a hassle-free visit, book a table at Litli Barinn ahead of time. You don't need to worry if you haven't, though, as they make sure to save a few seats for walk-ins.
Litli Barinn
- Location: Ranargata 4a, 105 Reykjavik.
- Open: Every day, 3 PM - 10 PM.
- Book your table at Litli Barinn
Fjallkonan
Located in the heart of Reykjavik, Fjallkonan is a restaurant that manages to strike a good balance between traditional Icelandic cuisine and modern dining trends. They take pride in showcasing the best of what Iceland has to offer with creative dishes and drinks.
Their menu features an array of dishes that cater to all types of food enthusiasts, and their vegan and vegetarian options are far from being an afterthought. They're crafted with the same care and attention as their meat-based counterparts.
The restaurant also has a very nice and lively atmosphere with trendy decor, friendly staff, and nice drinks. It's definitely worth a stop during your visit to Reykjavik. But Fjallkonan is very popular, so make sure to book your table a day or two ahead of time.
If you're a Guide to Iceland customer, it's best to book between Sundays and Thursdays, as you get a 20% discount off the menu with your VIP Club access. Don't forget to claim it during your visit!
Fjallkonan
- Location: Hafnarstraeti 1-3, 101 Reykjavik.
- Open: Every day, 11:30 AM - 11 PM.
- Book your table at Fjallkonan
Himalayan Spice
Photo from Himalayan Spice.
Located on the Old Harbor of Reykjavik, Himalayan Spice offers varied Nepalese food and a relaxed atmosphere. There are a lot of vegetarian and vegan options to choose from, though, unfortunately, they generally don't have a vegan dessert.
Dessert or not, it’s still worth checking out for their curries and delicious flatbread. Make sure to book your table ahead of time so you don't miss out.
For a guaranteed delicious vegan dessert, stroll along the harbor to the Grandi area and stop in the popular ice cream parlor Valdis. They have great vegan ice cream options, and you can enjoy the beautiful view of Mt. Esja on the way.
Himalayan Spice
- Location: Geirsgata 3, 101 Reykjavik.
- Open: Daily, 4 PM – 10 pm
- Book your table at Himalayan Spice
Kopar
The restaurant Kopar, situated near Reykjavik's old harbor, offers an array of dishes inspired by Icelandic traditions, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and local ingredients.
It also caters to vegan and vegetarian guests with carefully crafted plant-based options. The restaurant's charm is enhanced by its warm and rustic atmosphere, making it a popular location. So be sure to book ahead of time and request a table by the upstairs window for amazing views over the harbor.
Their vegan six-course adventure menu is a special highlight if you're heading there for dinner. For groups of twelve or more, you can also treat yourself to a surprisingly affordable yacht trip along the Reykjavik shoreline that includes a three-course dinner at Kopar afterward.
When booking, you can request a vegan option for the dinner.
Kopar
- Location: Geirsgata 3, 101 Reykjavik.
- Open for dinner: Sunday - Wednesday, 5 PM - 9 PM. Thursday - Saturday, 5 PM - 9:30 PM.
- Lunch is available Tuesday - Friday, 11:30 AM - 3 PM, and Saturday, 12 PM- 3 PM.
- Book your table at Kopar
Reykjavik Kitchen
Reykjavik Kitchen, located in the heart of the city, offers a delightful culinary experience with a menu inspired by Icelandic traditions and local ingredients. The restaurant focuses on fresh seafood, tender meats, and innovative vegetarian and vegan options crafted to provide a modern twist on classic Icelandic dishes.
Its cozy yet contemporary ambiance makes it an inviting spot for both locals and tourists, ideal for intimate dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Reykjavik Kitchen is committed to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, which enhances the authenticity of each dish.
For culinary explorers seeking an authentic taste of Icelandic cuisine in a modern setting, Reykjavik Kitchen is a must. And if your travel partners don’t have a plant-based diet, the traditional fish dishes and innovative vegan plates offer something for everyone.
Reykjavik Kitchen
- Location: Adalstraeti 2, 101 Reykjavik
- Open for dinner Monday – Sunday, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Hosilo
Photo from Hosiló restaurant.
Hosilo is a charming, tiny restaurant in Reykjavik that offers amazing vegetarian food. Their menu changes every week, which ensures fresh and exciting dishes, making each visit a bit of an adventure. Just trust the process; it will be worth it.
For the main dish, each menu offers one meat option, one fish option, and one vegetarian option.
If you want to check them out, make sure to contact them and book your table ahead of time, as seating is very limited, and they have a dedicated fanbase.
As they generally only offer a vegetarian choice, it would also be a good idea to ask if their current option is vegan as well.
Hosiló
- Location: Hverfisgata 12, 101 Reykjavik (across from the Gamla Bio event house).
- Open: Tuesday to Saturday, 11:30 AM – 11 PM, except for Thursdays, when they close at 10 PM; Closed Sunday and Monday
- Book your table at Hosilo.
Salka Valka Kitchen
The homey Salka Valka Kitchen is a great spot to bring your pescetarian friends for lunch; they're a meat-free establishment with a menu that is typically half-vegan.
Their smoothies can be made with oat milk or vegan milk, and there is always a vegan soup on the menu, served with sourdough bread. You can also add a vegan plate to the soup, which includes salad, sweet potatoes, rice, bread, and hummus.
Their vegan pizza is popular, as is the delicious vegan apple pie.
It's perfectly located on the rainbow-painted street just below Hallgrimskirkja church and has a pretty relaxed atmosphere. It's a good option for a light lunch or dinner, so make sure to keep it in mind for your Reykjavik trip.
On a side note, the name Salka Valka comes from an Icelandic novel of the same name by Nobel Prize winner Halldor Laxness. The book has been translated into English and is worth checking out if you're interested in good books and Icelandic culture.
Salka Valka Kitchen
- Location: Skolavordustigur 23, 101 Reykjavik.
- Open: Daily, 10 AM - 10 PM.
- See more: The Best Icelandic Literature for a Non-Icelander
- See more: Icelandic Literature for Beginners
Kruska
Photo from Krúska.
Kruska is a bright and friendly diner that offers organic and healthy cuisine largely inspired by Indian vegetarian cooking.
The generous vegan courses are always labeled, as are the accompanying bread and hummus, which you can eat to your heart's content. You can also select all the available salads as vegan.
All their food is prepared on-site, and their menu changes daily, so each visit is a new experience. Kruska is located a bit off the city center, but it's well worth the journey for tasty and filling food.
Kruska
- Location: Sudurlandsbraut 12, 108 Reykjavik.
- Open: Monday to Thursday, 11 AM - 8 PM. Fridays, 11 AM - 6 PM.
MatBar
Photo from MatBar.
MatBar is a popular restaurant in the heart of Reykjavik previously chosen by the Bartenders Choice Awards as the best restaurant in Iceland.
It's known for its innovative approach to food – crafting seasonal menus that champion locally sourced ingredients – so their options can change quickly. While not exclusively vegetarian, MatBar offers some amazing, imaginative, plant-based dishes that are favorites among locals.
It's conveniently located on Hverfisgata street, close to major attractions in central Reykjavik. Because of the restaurant's relaxed and trendy atmosphere, it can be a great starting point before heading out to experience Reykjavik's famous nightlife.
It's a very popular location, so book your table ahead of time when planning your Reykjavik itinerary. They accept table reservations at 6 PM, 8 PM, and 10 PM, but you can also eat at the bar at any time.
MatBar
- Location: Hverfisgata 26, 101 Reykjavik.
- Open: Monday to Thursday, 12 PM - 11 PM. Friday to Saturday, 12 PM - 12 AM. Closed on Sundays.
- Book your table at MatBar
- See more: Reykjavik Nightlife Guide
- See more: Ultimate Guide to Downtown Reykjavik
- See also: The Best Bars for Craft Beer in Reykjavik
Sumac
Sumac is a must-visit restaurant in Reykjavik, as it truly has some of the best meatless dishes in the city. In fact, it's one of the overall best restaurants in Reykjavik, with a Michelin Guide mention.
They serve up flavors of the Middle East and North Africa with a strong emphasis on Lebanese and Moroccan cuisines. The restaurant is renowned for its inventive approach to these culinary traditions, and that creativity extends to its vegetarian and vegan options.
You can find varied plant-based options on their menu or try out their seven-course sharing menu for an adventure.
Sumac was considered the best restaurant in Iceland at the 2023 Bartenders Choice Awards and was thought to have the best bartender, best cocktail menu, and the best signature cocktail, called Funiks. They also create delicious non-alcoholic cocktails.
With fantastic food and drinks, a chic atmosphere, and a warm welcome, Sumac is a fantastic choice for a memorable dining experience during your visit to Iceland. Make sure to include it in your plans and book your table ahead of time.
Sümac
- Location: Laugavegur 28, 101 Reykjavik.
- Open: Tuesday to Thursday, 5:30 PM - 11 PM. Friday - Saturday, 5:30 PM - 11:30 PM.
- Book your table at Sümac
Best Vegan and Vegetarian Cafés In Reykjavik
If you're looking for a small treat with your coffee or fuel for your day, there are many plant-based options in Reykjavik’s cafe scene. Here are the top five favorite options for a vegan or vegetarian breakfast and brunch in Reykjavik: the perfect start for a day of exploring.
The Laundromat Café
Photo from the Laundromat Café.
For an affordable brunch option, check out the Laundromat Café. It's smack-dab in the middle of central Reykjavik and offers multiple delicious vegan and vegetarian breakfast and brunch platters and dishes. It's decorated like an old diner and has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
As the name implies, it's also a laundromat, so if you're looking to freshen your suitcase, you can bring your laundry. You get tokens for the washer and dryer at the bar, along with detergent, and you can enjoy a nice, comforting meal while waiting.
The Laundromat Café
- Location: Austurstraeti 9, 101 Reykjavik.
- Open: Monday to Wednesday, 9 AM – 9 PM; Thursday to Friday, 9 AM – 10 PM. Saturdays, 10 AM – 10 PM; Sundays, 10 AM – 6 PM
Grai Kotturinn
Grai Kotturinn, or "the Gray Cat", is an iconic café located on Hverfisgata street in the heart of Reykjavik. They're famous for their breakfast and brunch options, including the hefty Truck brunch platter, a local favorite for over two decades.
Their brunch platters generally include animal products, but the location makes it on this list because of their amazing vegan hummus and vegetable bagels.
Grai Kotturinn is an especially versatile dining location if you're traveling with non-vegetarians or non-vegans, as everyone will be able to have a fantastic breakfast or lunch to fuel their day.
Grái Kötturinn
- Location: Hverfisgata 16a, 101 Reykjavik.
- Open: Daily, 8 AM - 2:30 PM.
Kaffihus Vesturbaejar
Photo from Kaffihús Vesturbæjar.
Kaffihus Vesturbaejar is a popular café loved by the residents of the 107 area in Reykjavik. Although the establishment is an omnivorous one, plant-based eaters can genuinely feel their dishes are much more than an afterthought.
The cafe has delicious coffee and good vegan and vegetarian options for all meals of the day. You can choose from salads and omelets or try their soup. It's also close to the Vesturbaejarlaug swimming pool, the culturally iconic Melabudin grocery store, and only a 20-minute walk from central Reykjavik.
Kaffihus Vesturbaejar
- Location: Melhagi 20, 107 Reykjavik.
- Open: Monday to Friday, 8 AM – 11 PM; Weekends, 9 AM – 11 PM
- See more: The Best Swimming Pools in Reykjavik
- See also: Swimming Pool Etiquette in Iceland
Deig
Photo from Deig.
On weekdays after 10 AM, they have a special "poor man's offer" where you can get a doughnut or pastry with a drink for around 1.850 ISK. Make sure to take advantage of it during your trip, and don't miss out on their delicious doughnuts.
They're centrally located in Reykjavik, and if you happen to be staying at the popular Exeter Hotel, you're in luck! Deig is located on the bottom floor, meaning you can book your room at the Exeter Hotel for the ultimate breakfast bagel experience.
Deig
- Location: Tryggvagata 12, 101 Reykjavik.
- Open: Monday to Sunday, 7 AM - 4 PM.
Emilie and the Cool Kids
Photo from Emilie and the Cool Kids.
All the “cool kids” visit the charming cafe, Emilie and the Cool Kids, for the best vegan pastries in Reykjavik. They're part of a French café chain from Nice (so they're very nice), and they offer great vegan treats like cookies, cupcakes, cinnamon buns, cakes, and great coffee.
They also have a collaboration with Deig and serve the cafe’s incredible bagels.
Their options change from day to day, and they always have something exciting to choose from. If you prefer something more hearty, they also have a soup that is always vegan and gluten-free. You can find them in Hverfisgata in central Reykjavik, just a 5-minute walk from the Hlemmur area.
Emilie and the Cool Kids
- Location: Hverfisgata 98, 101 Reykjavik.
- Open: Daily, 9 AM - 5 PM.
Best Vegetarian and Vegan Street Food Spots
These are the top Reykjavik spots from which to grab an easy vegan or vegetarian meal on the fly. Whether you're craving something quick and healthy or quick and sinful, you're sure to find a delicious plant-based option to suit your needs.
Saffran
Photo from Saffran.
Saffran is a popular fast-food restaurant chain that's relatively healthy. They have a tasty vegan wrap that's reasonably priced, and they serve an interesting vegan Satay dish. It's a good choice when traveling with kids as their children's menu also has vegan options.
Their locations are rather out of the way for downtown visitors, but if you have a rental car in Reykjavik or are passing by, it's worth checking out. The closest restaurant is in the Glaesibaer shopping center, a 3-mile (5-kilometer) drive from central Reykjavik, and the other is in the neighboring town of Kopavogur. Staying in? They also deliver.
Saffran
- Location: Alfheimar 74, 104 Reykjavik and Dalvegur 4, Kopavogur.
- Open: Daily, 11 AM – 2:30 PM and 5 PM – 10 PM
Lamb Street Food
While the name of this small restaurant implies an emphasis on serving meat, Lamb Street Food also serves fantastic vegan options. They offer multiple vegan falafel wraps that are especially savory, and even their children's option is vegan. You can also get a vegan version of all their salads upon request.
They use organic packaging and try to minimize food waste and the use of plastic. You can choose from two locations in popular areas of Reykjavik, making it simple to fit into your itinerary as you explore the city.
Lamb Street Food
- Location: Grandagardur 7, 101 Reykjavik and Borgartun 29, 105 Reykjavik.
- Open: Daily, Monday – Friday 11 AM – 9 PM; Saturday – Sunday 12 AM – 9 PM
Mandi
For the best hummus plate in town at the oddest hours, head over to Mandi to pick up a vegan snack on the go. There, you can find very good, reasonably priced Syrian food – a local favorite.
Ask their friendly staff about the vegan version of their tasty falafel wrap, or try their vegan falafel bowl. Much of their menu is vegetarian as well.
Mandi is a very popular spot after a night on the town since they're open until 5 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. They have two other locations in Reykjavik and Kopavogur, but their location on Ingolfstorg Square deserves a special highlight because of its opening hours and convenience.
Mandi
- Location: Veltusund 3b, 101 Reykjavik (Ingolfstorg square).
- Open: Monday to Wednesday, 10 AM – 11 PM; Friday and Saturday, 11 AM – 5 AM; Sunday, 11 AM – 11 PM
Black Dragon
Photo from Black Dragon restaurant.
Black Dragon fuses French and Asian cuisine "with an Icelandic twist," and they offer some very nice vegan and vegetarian options on their unique menu.
Their dumplings are legendary, and a number of dishes feature amazing deep-fried oyster mushrooms. They also make their kimchi in-house.
Their drink menu offers some exciting Icelandic and Asian beers, along with wines and cocktails.
Black Dragon is located in the Hafnartorg Gallery food hall in central Reykjavik, which offers many different restaurant options under one roof. This means that if your group has different food cravings, everyone can find something that suits them while still being able to enjoy your meals together.
Black Dragon
- Location: Geirsgata 17, 101 Reykjavik.
- Open: Wednesday to Saturday, 11:30 AM – 10 PM; Sunday and Monday, 12 PM – 9 PM; Tuesday, 11:30 AM – 9 PM
Does Reykjavik Offer Enough Vegetarian and Vegan Options for You?
If your mouth is watering, it may be time to book one of the popular Reykjavik food tours (though double-check their menus for vegetarian and vegan options):
- Walking & Food Tour in Reykjavik
- Small-Group 3-Hour Food Walking Tour in the Heart of Reykjavik
- Private 3-Hour Vegetarian Walking Food Tour in Reykjavik
Be it food that is fast, healthy, comforting, or lavish, Reykjavik is a city with great options for all when it comes to vegetarian or vegan dining. Eating on a plant-based diet in Iceland has never been easier or tastier.
The options are so good that omnivores are even rushing to try Iceland’s burgeoning vegan and vegetarian food scene.
FAQs About Vegan and Vegetarian Food in Reykjavik
- Is it hard to find vegan and vegetarian food in Reykjavik?
No, Reykjavik has a growing plant-based food scene, with many restaurants offering vegan and vegetarian options. There are also fully vegan and vegetarian restaurants in the city. - Which grocery stores in Reykjavik have the best selection of vegan food?
Kronan is the best option for vegan groceries, offering a wide range of plant-based products, including dairy alternatives, meat substitutes, and fresh produce. - Are there budget-friendly vegan restaurants in Reykjavik?
Yes! Affordable options include Chickpea, Loving Hut, and Mandi, which serve delicious vegan meals at reasonable prices. Grocery shopping can also help cut costs. - Do I need to make reservations for vegan restaurants in Reykjavik?
For popular restaurants like Vegan World Peace and Sumac, making a reservation is recommended, especially during peak hours or busy travel seasons. - Are there vegan options available outside of Reykjavik?
While vegan options in the countryside are limited, you can stock up at grocery stores like Kronan before heading out on a road trip. Some larger towns also have a few plant-based menu items. - What traditional Icelandic foods are vegan-friendly?
Some Icelandic dishes can be adapted for vegans, such as rye bread, pickled vegetables, and certain soups. Many restaurants now offer plant-based takes on Icelandic cuisine. - Are there vegan-friendly food tours in Reykjavik?
Yes! Several Reykjavik food tours cater to vegetarians and vegans, offering plant-based versions of Icelandic specialties while exploring the city’s top dining spots.
Get Ready to Dine Out in Reykjavik
Reykjavik offers an exciting and diverse selection of vegan and vegetarian dining options, from cozy cafés to gourmet restaurants, making plant-based eating in Iceland easier than ever. When you're planning your foodie adventure, check out our Reykjavik dining review to make the most of your trip.
Reykjavik city is a modern capital in a constant state of change, so stay tuned for regular updates on the best Vegan and Vegetarian food around – or tell us about your personal selections in the comments below.
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Where do the locals shop in Reykjavík? What shops are Reykjavik's originals and where do you find them? Read on and discover the unique shops and boutiques fundamental to maintaining downtown Reykjavi...Read more
Download Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.