The Vegan & Vegetarian Guide to Reykjavik

The Vegan & Vegetarian Guide to Reykjavik

Verified expert

Fridheimar provides tomatoes for lovely veggie dishes across Reykjavik.

What are the best options for vegan and vegetarian food in Reykjavik? Is the selection plentiful or limited? Are there restaurants that offer only plant-based food? How vegan-friendly is Reykjavik in general?

Reykjavik has seen its dining options increase dramatically in the last few years. The availability for fine dining has never been higher, with an array of restaurants offering fresh, traditional Icelandic ingredients prepared with international fusions. The same progression has graciously been happening for vegan and vegetarian options.

Vegan and vegetarian diets are becoming increasingly popular, and today, there is hardly an Icelandic dining establishment that doesn’t offer one or two vegan options on its menu. Now, most grocery stores even offer a pretty decent selection of vegan products.

If your accommodation in Reykjavik offers access to a kitchen, you can use the opportunity to try new and different meals. If you're planning a road trip with a rental car, keep this in mind when you look for accommodation in Iceland, and stock up on some groceries at the start of your trip!


Photo above from Golden Circle Minibus Tour With Visit to Fridheimar & Kerid Crater Lake


With veganism being widely regarded in a positive light, the focus has shifted more to the food itself, meaning that vegans and vegetarians can finally enjoy the full benefits of fine dining. Now, you can even join a special vegetarian food tour of Reykjavik!

Is this development because the lifestyle is finally respected and applauded due to heightened awareness? Or simply because of increased numbers and noticeable effect on the market? No matter the reasons, the results can’t be argued with.

That is why, when conducting a restaurant guide such as this one, we can afford to be pickier than in the past. For this guide, we have explored the best Reykjavik has to offer in regard to plant-based eating. Read on to discover where to go and what to get in our list of the top vegan and vegetarian spots in Reykjavik.



Top 5 Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants in Reykjavik

Hallgrimskirkja overlooks wide range of vegan and vegetarian restaurants.

These Reykjavik establishments offer only vegetarian or vegan options and are the perfect choices for a completely meat-free lunch and dinner.

5. Loving Hut and Vegan World Peace

The entrance of Loving Hut Iceland in Reykjavik

Photo from Loving Hut Iceland.

With friendly service and charm, Loving Hut and Vegan World Peace offer tasty options for a budget-friendly and filling meal during your exploration of Reykjavik. While separately run establishments, they're both part of a global chain of vegan restaurants. Vegan World Peace is smack dab in the center of Reykjavik at Adalstraeti 2. The other one, Loving Hut Iceland, is a 25-minute walk from the city center but well worth the trip.

Inside of Loving Hut Iceland in Reykjavik

Photo from Loving Hut Iceland.

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

Loving Hut Vegan World Peace


4. SÓNÓ Matseljur

Food available at SÓNÓ Matseljur in the Nordic House in Reykjavik

Photo from SÓNÓ Matseljur.

SÓNÓ Matseljur is a great lunch option for vegan and vegetarian visitors in Reykjavik. You can enjoy a coffee with a light dish, pastry, or slice of cake, or go for their lunch menu that changes regularly to uphold sustainable practices. They utilize local, organic ingredients to craft innovative plant-based meals inspired by traditional Nordic cuisine.

The Nordic House in Reykjavik which has the SONO Matseljur vegetarian and vegan restaurantAs a bonus, the restaurant is located in the iconic Nordic House, where you can enjoy your meal surrounded by Scandinavian design elements. When visiting, use the opportunity to check out the Nordic House's art exhibition or any of the other events that may be going on during your trip, as it's a hub of cultural activity!


SÓNÓ Matseljur



3. Mama

Vegan salad available at Mama restaurant in ReykjavikMama 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!

Green vegan drink available at Mama restaurant in ReykjavikIt's run by a group of people that want to create an environment of well-being and give back to the world, and the location has a very friendly and welcoming atmosphere. They emphasize recycling, no food waste, or the use of plastic. They also choose to use seasonal ingredients for their dishes to ensure quality and freshness. There's also a clothing store on the bottom floor where you can get jewelry and some very pretty pieces for your wardrobe!


Mama


2. Kaffihúsið Garðurinn | Ecstasy's Heart-Garden

Entrance to Kaffihusid Gardurinn in Reykjavik

“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 different cities around the world.

One of these establishments is Kaffihúsið Garðurinn, also known as Ecstasy's Heart-Garden, which has been nested in the center of Reykjavik for around two decades. Before 2015, Garðurinn was the only completely vegetarian joint in town. With a diverse menu that changes weekly, there are many great homemade options to choose from.

Vegetarian Lasagna at Kaffihusid Gardurinn in ReykjavikThey have a soup of the day, which is vegan, as is the accompanying bread, and the staff will ask you if you prefer butter or hummus as a spread. There is also 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 the ecstasy garden and feel the love and enlightenment.


Kaffihúsið Garðurinn

  • 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

1. Chickpea

Chef at Chickpea restaurant in Reykjavik preparing home made wraps or breadChickpea is a family-run restaurant that serves whole food. All their food is vegetarian, and everything can be made vegan upon request. As the name implies, they craft tasty options using the versatile chickpea as the star ingredient, and they specialize in falafel. 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 hidden, but you can find it in the same building as the Kronan supermarket in central Reykjavik. The location is rather small. There's barstool seating along the windows, but if you don't manage to grab a seat, it's also great for takeaway.

Flat bread with falafel and hummus at Chickpea in Reykjavik offering vegan or vegetarian foodThe 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. With generous and nutritious servings, don't miss out on Chickpea during your visit.


Chickpea


Top 10 Vegan and Vegetarian Menu Options in Reykjavik

Tjornin pond in Reykjavik with birdlife under a blue skyThese are the top 10 restaurants in Reykjavik that offer vegan and vegetarian options on their menus. They offer different experiences and price ranges, so there's something on the list for everyone.

10. Himalayan Spice

The inside of Himalayan Spice in Reykjavik

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. It's still worth checking out for their curries, and their flatbread is delicious! Make sure to book your table ahead of time so you don't miss out.

If you're craving a vegan dessert, then enjoy a stroll along the harbor to the Grandi area and stop in the popular ice cream parlor Valdís. They have great vegan ice cream options, and you can enjoy the beautiful view of Mt. Esja on the way.


Himalayan Spice


9. Kopar

The inside of the restaurant Kopar in ReykjavikThe restaurant Kopar, situated near Reykjavik's old harbor, offers an array of dishes inspired by Icelandic traditions, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. It's mostly known for its seafood, but 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. Make sure to book ahead of time, as it's a popular location, and request a table by the upstairs window, as it has amazing views over the harbor!

Their vegan six-course adventure menu is a special highlight if you're heading there for dinner. If you're traveling in a large group of twelve or more, you can also treat yourself to a surprisingly not-insanely-expensive 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


8. Fjallkonan

Vegetarian and vegan food at Fjallkonan restaurant in ReykjavikLocated 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. As Fjallkonan is very popular, make sure to book your table a day or two ahead of time to be safe.


Fjallkonan


7. Héðinn

A dish at Héðinn restaurant in Reykjavik

Photo from Héðinn restaurant.

Héðinn is an esteemed restaurant in Reykjavik known for its innovative approach to traditional Icelandic cuisine. Although the majority of the dishes are not vegetarian or vegan, Héðinn offers some great plant-based dishes. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, local ingredients, and its menu changes seasonally to reflect the availability of produce, so be aware that the vegan and vegetarian options may fluctuate.

The head chef of Héðinn, Sindri Guðbrandur Sigurðsson, is part of the Icelandic Culinary Team, so you can be sure that the food is crafted by skilled professionals passionate about creating a culinary experience. This is part of why one of the real highlights of their options is their 5-course plant-based adventure menu, which they describe as an "amazing tour through the plant world".

This location is an especially great option if you're looking to celebrate a special night or, more importantly, simply treat yourself to a great dining experience! Make sure to book your table ahead of time to ensure that you don't miss out.


Héðinn


6. Hosiló

Seating at the charming Hosiló restaurant in Reykjavik

Photo from Hosiló restaurant.

Hosiló is a charming tiny restaurant in Reykjavik that offers amazing vegetarian food. Their menu changes every week, which ensures fresh and exciting dishes. It also allows for experimenting with new food combinations, making each visit a bit of an adventure. Just trust the process; it will be worth it!

They limit themselves to two starters and up to three desserts. For the main, there's only 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


5. Salka Valka Kitchen

The inside of Salka Valka restaurant, showing a map of the world on the wall and a colorful muralThe homey Salka Valka Kitchen is a great spot to bring your pescetarian friends for lunch, as they're a meat-free establishment that consists of a menu that is, surprisingly, half-vegan. Their smoothies can be made with oat milk or vegan milk, and there is always a vegan soup available, 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 also pretty good, and they have a delicious vegan apple pie with cream.

Vegan apple pie in Reykjavik with vegan whipped cream at the restaurant Salka ValkaIt'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 Price winner Halldór Laxness, and the book has been translated into English and many other languages. It's worth checking out if you're interested in good books and Icelandic culture.


Salka Valka Kitchen



4. Black Dragon

Black Dragon restaurants with employees cooking

Photo from Black Dragon restaurant.

Black Dragon is a relatively new restaurant in Reykavik that 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 especially good, and some dishes have amazing deep-fried oyster mushrooms. They also have homemade kimchi! Their drink menu is pretty decent, as they have some exciting Icelandic and Asian beers, along with wines and cocktails.

It's located in the Hafnartorg Gallery food hall in central Reykjavik, which offers 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


3. Krúska

Vegetable lasagna at Krúska restaurant

Photo from Krúska.

Krúska 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 is the accompanying bread and hummus, of which you can gorge yourself 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. Krúska is located a bit off the city center, but it's well worth the journey for tasty and filling food.


Krúska


2. MatBar

Seating at MatBar restaurant in Reykajvik

Photo from MatBar.

MatBar is a very popular restaurant in the heart of Reykjavik and has previously been chosen as the best restaurant in Iceland at the Bartenders Choice Awards. 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 a favorite among locals.

It's conveniently located on Hverfisgata street, making it 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 make sure to 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



1. Sümac

The dining area of Sumac in ReykjavikSümac is a must-visit restaurant in Reykjavik, as it truly has some of the best non-meat dishes in the city. In fact, it's one of the overall best restaurants in Reykjavik, with a Michelin Guide mention.

They deliver a taste 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 7-course sharing menu for an adventure.

Sümac 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 have amazing non-alcoholic cocktails!

With fantastic food and drinks, a chic atmosphere, and a warm welcome, Sümac 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


Best Vegan and Vegetarian Cafés In Reykjavik

Laugavegur in Reykjavik with colorful houses and tables for sitting outsideIf you're looking for a small treat with your coffee or fuel for your day, there are many options to choose from. 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.

5. Grái Kötturinn

Inside the Grái Kötturinn café in Reykjavik with people enjoying foodGrái Kötturinn, 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, which has been a local favorite for over two decades.

Unfortunately, their brunch platters generally include animal products, but the location makes it on this list because of their amazing vegan hummus or vegetable bagels. This makes this an especially great 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


4. The Laundromat Café

The book bar at the Laundromat Café in Reykjavik

Photo from the Laundromat Café.

If you're craving a great and affordable brunch option, then the Laundromat Café is here to provide. 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 drier 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, 9 AM - 10 PM. Friday 8 AM - 10 PM. Saturdays, 10 AM - 10 PM. Sundays, 10 AM - 6 PM.

3. Kaffihús Vesturbæjar

The service desk and bar at Kaffihús Vesturbæjar in Reykjavik

Photo from Kaffihús Vesturbæjar.

Kaffihús Vesturbæjar is a popular café loved by the residents of the 107 area in Reykjavik. Although the establishment is an omnivorous one, one can genuinely feel that the plant-based food is just as catered to and respected as the rest of the menu.

They have delicious coffee and good vegan and vegetarian options for all meals of the day. You can choose from different salads and omelets or try their soup. It's also close to the Vesturbaejarlaug swimming pool, as well as the culturally iconic Melabudin grocery store, and a 20-minute walk from central Reykjavik.


Kaffihús Vesturbæjar

  • Location: Melhagi 20, 107 Reykjavik.
  • Open: Monday to Thursday, 8 AM - 11 PM. Fridays, 11 AM - 11 PM. Weekends, 9 AM - 11 PM.


2. Deig

The bagels, doughnuts and other treats at Deig bakery in Reykjavik

Photo from Deig.

If you want a unique treat when visiting Reykjavik, then you must stop by Deig. They offer super tasty vegan bagels and sandwiches, and they have some very interesting homemade doughnuts! They're also pretty affordable, a rather rare sight on the Reykjavik food scene.

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


1. Emilie and the Cool Kids

Treats at Emilie and the Cool Kids in Reykjavik

Photo from Emilie and the Cool Kids.

If you want to be a "cool kid", you can visit the charming 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, different cakes, and great coffee. They also have a collaboration with Deig and serve their 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 on Hverfisgata in central Reykjavik and just a 5-minute walk from the Hlemmur area.


Emilie and the Cool Kids


Top 5 Vegetarian and Vegan Street Food Places

Posthusstraeti in Reykjavik with charming red old buildingThese are the top 5 Reykjavik spots from which to grab an easy vegan or vegetarian meal. Whether you're craving something quick and healthy or quick and sinful, you're sure to find a delicious option to suit your needs.

5. Saffran

Photo showing the logo of Saffran inside one of their locations in Reykjavik

Photo from Saffran.

Saffran is a popular fast-food restaurant chain that's relatively healthy. They have a great 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 if you're staying downtown, but if you have a rental car in Reykjavik or are passing by, it's worth checking out! The closes one is in the Glaesibaer shopping center, a 10-minute drive from central Reykjavik, and the other is in the neighboring town of Kopavogur. If you want, however, you can also get their food delivered.


Saffran


4. Gló

Food available at Gló restaurant in ReykjavikGló has made a name for itself as one of the healthiest fast food options in Iceland. They offer actually good salads, and there are multiple vegan options to choose from. The majority of their dishes are vegetarian as well, and every Friday, they offer vegetarian sushi!

The goal of Gló is to make it easier for people to find nutritious and healthy food and to have a positive influence on people's physical and mental health. This makes it a simple and reliable go-to place for a tasty and healthy meal. They have two locations to choose from; one is in central Reykjavik and is very convenient, and the other is in the Skeifan area of the city.


Gló


3. Lamb Street Food

Service desk and bar at Lamb Street Food in ReykjavikWhile the name of this small restaurant does signify their emphasis on serving meat, Lamb Street Food also has some fantastic vegan options. They have multiple vegan falafel wraps to choose from that are especially good, and even their children's option is vegan. You can also get a vegan version of all their salads upon request.

They emphasize using 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


2. Mandi

Entrance of Mandi at Ingolfstorg in ReykjavikFor the best hummus plate in town at the oddest of hours, head to Mandi for a vegan snack on the go. There, you can find very good, reasonably priced Syrian food that's a favorite among locals. The staff is very friendly, and I recommend that you ask for their tasty falafel wrap as vegan or try their vegan falafel bowl. Much of their menu is vegetarian as well.

Vegan falafel wrap at Mandi in ReykjavikMandi is a very popular spot to head to after a night on the town since they're open until a whopping 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


1. Junkyard

Large Junkyard vegan burger in ReykjavikIf you're craving the deliciousness of sinful fast food, then you simply must check out Junkyard. It's a small location that serves some of the best vegan burgers in Iceland. They don't advertise their food as vegan, but all of it is, so you're safe to try anything on their very affordable menu.

Junkyard is also built around a very special concept. They have a monthly subscription system where you become a member and receive a free burger of the month, a 50% off coupon, and access to special offers and discounts. As more people join, the more discounts they can enjoy!

Junkyard vegan burger with onion rings in IcelandTheir location is best reached by rental car as they're only a 10-minute drive from downtown Reykjavik. You can also take a 25-minute city bus ride, though keep in mind that Junkyard is not close to many attractions. You could also enjoy the hour-long walk along the Reykjavik coastline. Nonetheless, it's worth taking the time to try, as their burgers are really a favorite of local vegans, vegetarians, and omnivores. Their fight for food accessibility and environmentalism is also worth supporting.


Junkyard


Summary of the Vegan and Vegetarian Guide to Reykjavik

Laugavegur in Reykjavik showing the building of the Restaurant MamaBe it food that is fast, healthy, comforting, or lavish, Reykjavik is now finally a city boasting of all of these options when it comes to vegetarian or vegan dining. When it comes to leaving the house to eat, denouncing animals and/or animal products from your diet has never been easier—and perhaps never as appealing.

The cruelty-free lifestyle is trendy and on the rise—whereas opposed to vegetarians heading to omnivorous places for special selections, omnivores are now rushing to vegan and vegetarian establishments simply for the good food and great vibes. 


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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