Discover the best restaurants to visit along the winding fjords of East Iceland. Enjoy great casual meals and fine dining experiences among the beautiful landscapes and charming towns of the Icelandic Eastfjords!
The Eastfjords of Iceland offer a peaceful nature experience, with its winding fjords lined by beautiful mountains and waterfalls. But while it's easy to find places to visit for your travel itinerary, a crucial question remains! Where do you find a delicious meal during your days of exploring?
East Iceland boasts a diverse culinary scene, with fresh takes on international and Icelandic cuisine using fresh, local ingredients. The lovely towns of the Eastfjords cater to every taste and budget, with cozy cafes and upscale establishments.
You can explore the region with convenient Eastfjord tours, but the best way to navigate the winding roads is by renting a car and experiencing the adventures of summer self-drive tours.
Driving in Iceland allows you to see the more unique attractions of East Iceland and discover the historic fishing villages at your own pace.
There are also plenty of great Eastfjord accommodations for ultimate comfort during your journey. Alternatively, enjoy sleeping among nature by renting a campervan or motorhome in the summer. Whichever you choose, these are the best places to find delicious meals on your trip in the region. Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey through the beautiful Eastfjords!
- Plan your trip with the Ultimate Guide to Iceland's Eastfjords
Photo above from Flickr, Creative Commons, by Xavi. No edits made.
Best Egilsstadir Restaurants
As the largest town in the Eastfjords, Egilsstadir is an excellent base for exploring the region, especially as it's home to some lovely restaurants. These are the best restaurants in Egilsstadir.
- See also: Best Attractions by the Ring Road of Iceland
- See more: Best Restaurants in Iceland
3. Glóð Restaurant
Glóð Restaurant is a cozy spot in Egilsstadir, offering a warm and inviting dining atmosphere. It's located in Hotel Valaskjálf and just around the corner from the East Iceland Heritage Museum, making it an easy addition to your Egilsstadir itinerary.
Glóð Restaurant’s menu includes a wide variety of savory dishes from several different cuisines. You can enjoy tasty Italian pasta dishes, pizzas, and delicacies such as sushi, fresh lobster bisque, and a tender Icelandic lamb steak. There are also vegan options and a children’s menu, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Located amidst the stunning natural beauty of East Iceland, Glóð Restaurant provides a cozy retreat after exploring the region’s diverse landscapes. At Glóð, the focus is on creating an exceptional dining experience through carefully crafted dishes. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients and sourcing locally whenever possible, they highlight the best flavors of East Iceland. The restaurant has an average Google rating of 4 out of 5 stars and is a go-to in the area.
As an added bonus, members of Guide to Iceland’s VIP Club receive a 25% discount on the menu, so don't miss out on a visit. Just make sure to book your table at Glóð Restaurant ahead of time.
- Check out: Top Things to Do in Egilsstadir
- Also, see the Top Restaurants in North Iceland
2. Nielsen Restaurant
Those craving a truly fantastic dining experience should visit Nielsen Restaurant. It's the passion project of husband and wife duo Sólveig and Kári, and their love for good food and warm hospitality, which shines through at Nielsen's, with inventive menus and fresh Icelandic ingredients.
Kári is a renowned chef who previously led the Michelin-starred Dill restaurant in Reykjavik. Working closely with local farmers, fishermen, and foragers, the menu showcases the region's flavors at their peak. Traditional Icelandic specialties share the spotlight with creative takes on international cuisine.
The Nielsen Restaurant is located in the oldest building in Egilsstadir, built in 1944, and it draws its name from Oswald Nielsen, its original owner. It's currently only open during the summertime, but it's a must-visit when in the area.
The cozy interior makes for a lovely dining atmosphere, and if the weather allows, you can enjoy your lunch or dinner out on the tree-lined patio. They also have regular pop-up opening events over the winter, which they advertise on the Nielsen Facebook page, so you may still be able to visit during the colder months.
No matter your preference, Nielsen Restaurant promises a delicious and memorable experience that captures the essence of East Iceland. It has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 250 Google reviews. We recommend booking a table at Nielsen Restaurant with good notice to guarantee a seat!
1. Askur Taproom & Pizzeria
Askur Taproom is a cozy, lively craft bar that shares its space with Austri Brewery. This partnership allows them to offer diverse local craft beers across rotating taps, featuring everything from classic lagers to bold, innovative brews infused with unique flavors. For those looking to sample multiple varieties, beer flights provide the perfect tasting experience!
Beyond its impressive beer selection, Askur Taproom is also home to Askur Pizzeria, serving savory, wood-fired sourdough pizzas that pair perfectly with their brews. Askur offers creative menu items made with locally sourced ingredients and has vegan options available.
Whether your palate calls for a standard pepperoni pizza or something more intricate like bacon, dates, and peppered cheese, this Egilsstadir pizzeria will have something for everyone.
Askur Taproom is one of the most popular restaurants and bars in Egilsstadir, offering various entertainment options such as darts, board games, and a big-screen TV for watching sports in a casual atmosphere. The venue also hosts live music events and pub quiz nights, creating a welcoming and engaging atmosphere for both locals and visitors.
With an average Google review rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, don't miss out on a visit. Are you in Guide to Iceland’s VIP Club? Then, make sure to claim your 25% discount on local craft beer at Askur!
- See also: The Best Bars for Craft Beer in Reykjavik
- Also, check out The Best Pizza Places in Reykjavik
Best Seydisfjordur Restaurants
Seydisfjordur is one of the best places to visit in East Iceland, known for its charming historic houses, the scenic Seydisfjordur Church, and countless waterfalls. These are the must-try restaurants in Seydisfjordur.
3. Norð Austur - Sushi & Bar
Craving cuisine from further East than East Iceland? Want to enjoy fresh and delicious Icelandic seafood? Then, make a stop at Norð Austur, the best sushi place in the Eastfjords. It has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 140 Google reviews!
Located within the beautiful town of Seydisfjordur, Norð Austur is a cozy restaurant where experienced chefs craft fresh sushi and other staples of Japanese cuisine. They use only the freshest possible ingredients, with seafood caught by local fishermen.
The menu features classic sushi rolls and nigiri alongside a tempting selection of dishes like tempura and gyoza. These smaller plates are perfect for sharing and exploring a variety of tastes.
Norð Austur offers delicious tasting menus for the whole table, a great way to sample the wide range of meals available. They also have a family menu for groups of four or more, offering a 50% discount for children's meals! Just make sure to book your table at Norð Austur - Sushi & Bar with reasonable notice, as it's popular among locals and travelers alike.
- See also: Top 10 Seafood Restaurants in Reykjavik
2. Aldan Restaurant
Aldan Restaurant is located near the harbor, in the same building as Norð Austur. It's part of Hotel Aldan and offers an intimate atmosphere with a view of the surrounding mountains. It's also just a stone-throw away from the iconic rainbow road in Seydisfjordur, leading to the charming Seydisfjardarkirkja Church.
Sip on one of their craft cocktails while enjoying the view, or indulge in their wide selection of Icelandic dishes, such as reindeer tartare, lamb rack, or char, with vegan options available. They also offer a children’s menu and delightful desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth.
On Saturdays, Aldan Restaurant offers hearty brunch plates, such as avocado toast, eggs Benedict, and pancakes with freshly squeezed orange juice or a delicious coffee.
Aldan Restaurant prepares its meals sustainably with fresh local ingredients, representing staples of Icelandic cuisine. It has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Whether you’re craving a hearty brunch plate with a mimosa to start your day or a cozy dinner sampling the best of Iceland, Aldan Restaurant will have something to satisfy your palate!
- Plan your trip with the Ultimate Guide to Iceland's Eastfjords
1. Skaftfell Bistro
The town of Seydisfjordur is known for its colorful historic houses and beautiful surrounding fjord, draped with countless waterfalls. It's easy to spend days exploring all that the area has to offer, but any visit should include a stop at the Skaftfell Art Center.
This cultural center features interesting contemporary art exhibits but also a fantastic restaurant: Skaftfell Bistro. Their menu is simple and changes frequently as it celebrates the local ingredients available throughout the year in interesting ways. It has an average Google review rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 400 visitors.
Skaftfell Bistro is housed in the charming basement of a traditional 1907 Icelandic house built by Norwegian fishermen, which offers a cozy ambiance further enhanced by rotating contemporary art exhibits. Art lovers will also appreciate the unique library corner designed by Björn Roth, which features a collection of art books by his father, renowned artist Dieter Roth.
This charming restaurant is one of the best places to dine in the Eastfjords, so be sure to book your table at Skaftfell Bistro with good notice to ensure availability. While you're there, don't miss the opportunity to explore the art exhibits on the upper floors of the Skaftfell Art Center!
- For more Icelandic art, check out the Top 12 Art Museums and Galleries in Reykjavik
- See also: Top Restaurants in Iceland
Other Top Restaurants in East Iceland
East Iceland is known for its dramatic fjords, mountains, and charming fishing towns, where you'll find some great places for a good meal. Outside the larger settlements of Egilsstadir and Seydisfjordur, here are the best restaurants to try in the Eastfjords!
3. Café Sumarlína (Faskrudsfjordur)
As you pass through the picturesque village of Faskrudsfjordur, don't miss out on a visit to Café Sumarlína. It has an excellent 4.7 out of 5-star average rating from over 400 Google reviews!
This small family-run restaurant has a lot of charm with its delicious food, friendly service, homey interior, and a corner dedicated to the Leeds United football team. Non-Leeds fans are, of course, also welcome, and we encourage everyone passing through the area to stop by.
Café Sumarlína is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner, though the opening hours are somewhat irregular. It's open year-round, but it's best to check the Café Sumarlína Facebook page for the most up-to-date opening times.
The menu features excellent pizzas, pasta, and burgers but also tasty local seafood, Icelandic lamb. Café Sumarlína also has a children's menu, and they offer keto-friendly, vegetarian, and vegan options. If you're in the mood for something lighter, they offer savory desserts, so it's worth stopping by for a sweet treat with coffee or tea on your travels!
You can find pleasant accommodation options in the area, and Faskrudsfjordur's location can also serve as a convenient base for further exploration of the Eastfjords.
- Faskrudsfjordur is one of the 12 Towns to Visit in Iceland’s Eastfjords
- Find your accommodation on the largest travel marketplace in Iceland!
2. Randulf's Sea House (Eskifjordur)
One of the more unique dining experiences to enjoy during self-drive tours of the Eastfjords is at Randulf's Sea House or "Randulffssjóhús." This historic place is part of the Maritime Museum of East Iceland and sits at the lovely shore of the Eskifjordur Fjord, offering beautiful views of the Holmatindur Mountain.
Randulf's Sea House offers interesting Icelandic dishes like reindeer, lamb, and local seafood, in addition to the more infamous side of Icelandic food tradition, such as fermented shark, dried fish, and brennivin schnapps. Save room for their delicious desserts! We highly recommend the white chocolate skyr with sweetened rhubarb and oat crumble.
The restaurant offers a charming dining atmosphere, as the area's maritime history is reflected in its interior. Randulf's Sea House was built in 1890 by Norwegian fisherman Peter Randulff and served as a herring fishery. The building has been renovated to reflect its original appearance, and the interior features seafaring tools and photographs celebrating its history.
Randulf's Sea House has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 200 Google reviews, and it's recommended that you reserve a table if you want to visit. It's usually only open during the summer, though there are occasional special openings throughout the year. Make sure to confirm your table with the restaurant ahead of time.
1. Berunes Restaurant (Djupivogur)
If you're traveling around the Eastfjords between June and early September, the lovely Berunes HI Hostel is a must-try dining experience. While the hostel is an excellent accommodation in Djupavogur, the true star is the Berunes Restaurant!
It features a menu inspired by the renowned Forréttabarinn restaurant in Reykjavik, which has a 4.7 out of 5-star average rating on Google reviews. The owner and chef of Forréttabarinn, Róbert Ólafsson, grew up in Berunes and now brings his culinary expertise to the Eastfjords during the summer months.
While the menu changes regularly, you can expect a meat, fish, and vegetarian option for mains. However, contacting the restaurant beforehand regarding any dietary restrictions is always best.
You can try delicious twists on classic dishes using ingredients from the surrounding nature. They pair perfectly with the impressive wine selection or a delightful Icelandic craft beer, which you can enjoy with views of the towering Bulandstindur mountain across the fjord.
If you're traveling outside the summer months, you may still be in luck. Berunes Restaurant sometimes features openings for guest chefs throughout the year, which bring new and interesting menus. These are advertised on the Berunes Facebook page, so keep an eye out!
Take your time visiting the area, and remember to book a table at Berunes Restaurant to ensure you don't miss out on a great dining experience after your day of exploration.
- Forréttabarinn is one of the Best Restaurants in Reykjavik!
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Taste the Unique Flavors of the Eastfjords
The Icelandic Eastfjords feature plenty of opportunities for adventure. With picturesque fjords, towering mountains, and charming towns, it's a beautiful region to explore. Pair your adventure with a visit to some of the best restaurants in East Iceland for a truly memorable trip!
Will you explore the Eastfjords this summer? Have you visited the region before? Which of these restaurants would you like to try? Share your thoughts and experience in the comment section below!
