Baejarins Beztu Pylsur has been serving Iceland’s most famous hot dogs since 1937 and has become a long-standing favorite among both locals and visitors. For more than 85 years, the stand has built its reputation on a unique blend of lamb, pork, and beef and is now one of Reykjavik’s most recognized food spots.
The main stand sits on Tryggvagata Street in central Reykjavik, with additional locations across the city, such as in Smaralind Shopping Center. It is easy to find and has become a popular stop for anyone exploring the capital’s sights and culture.
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The stand is often featured on Reykjavik tours and included in many food and drink tours that showcase local favorites. It is also a highlight of several Reykjavik walking tours, and a small-group walking tour of Reykjavik often includes a stop here while guides share its history and lasting appeal.
Key Takeaways
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Baejarins Beztu Pylsur has been serving Iceland’s best hot dogs since 1937. They use a blend of lamb, pork, and beef.
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The must-try “pylsur med ollu” (hot dog with everything) includes all the classic toppings: raw onions, crispy fried onions, ketchup, sweet mustard, and remoulade.
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Prices are affordable, with hot dogs starting at about 5 USD (650 ISK) and sodas for 1.87 USD (260 ISK).
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Celebrities like Bill Clinton, James Hetfield, and the Kardashians have visited, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals.
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Baejarins Beztu has several locations around Reykjavik, including the original stand at Tryggvagata 1, and a kiosk at Keflavik Airport for travelers.
A Taste of Tradition — The Legacy Behind Baejarins Beztu Pylsur
Photo from Flickr, Creative Commons, by Comdor. No edits made.
Baejarins Beztu Pylsur isn’t just a hot dog stand — it’s a beloved family-run business with deep roots in Reykjavik. Founded in 1937 by Jón Sveinsson, a sailor who turned to selling hot dogs after retiring due to stomach cancer, the stand has been serving generations of locals and visitors ever since.
Today, the legacy continues with Guðrún Kristmunsdóttir, Jón’s granddaughter, who proudly runs the iconic stand alongside her son, Baldur Ingi Halldórsson. Together, they carry on the family tradition, keeping Baejarins Beztu a beloved Reykjavik landmark.
The stand works exclusively with Slaturfelag Sudurlands, more commonly known by its logo “SS,” a local, high-quality meat manufacturer. On a busy day, Baejarins Beztu serves as many as 1,000 hot dogs, keeping everyone happily fed with Iceland’s finest street food.
The Baejarins Beztu Pylsur Menu — A Flavorful Feast
Baejarins Beztu Pylsur offers a unique twist on the classic American hot dog, using a blend of lamb, pork, and beef for a distinct, savory flavor. The toppings are where things really get interesting.
Choose from a variety of options, including raw onions, crispy fried onions, ketchup, sweet mustard, and remoulade — a mayonnaise-based condiment with French roots, popularized in Denmark. The popular local choice is “pylsur med ollu” (a hot dog with everything), which piles on all the delicious toppings for the ultimate Icelandic hot dog experience.
The ketchup at Baejarins Beztu Pylsur stands out as it is made with apples for its sweetener rather than sugar or corn syrup. This gives it a unique sweetness with a third less sugar than its American counterpart.
Their mustard is also sweeter than what many might be used to, adding an extra layer of flavor to every bite. Meanwhile, the remoulade adds a creamy richness that balances the sweetness of the ketchup and mustard.
Unlike some hot dog stands, Baejarins Beztu doesn’t toast its buns, offering the classic way to enjoy an Icelandic hot dog. These soft, pillowy buns are simple and the perfect complement to the grilled sausage inside.
As far as prices go, a hot dog will cost about 5 USD (650 ISK), and a refreshing soda costs around 1.87 USD (260 ISK); this is a great value for an authentically local experience.
Baejarins Beztu’s Celebrity & Media Fame
Baejarins Beztu Pylsur skyrocketed to international fame in August 2004 when former US President Bill Clinton stopped by the stand during his visit to Iceland for a UNICEF conference. He ordered his hot dog with just mustard, a simple choice that became known as “The Clinton.”
Since then, the hot dog stand has become a tourist hotspot, earning a place in multiple travel guides. The stand’s growing fame didn’t stop there — celebrities like Metallica’s James Hetfield, actor Charlie Sheen, reality TV stars the Kardashians, and comedian Ricky Gervais have all stopped by the stand.
Baejarins Beztu also gained media attention in 2006 when British newspaper The Guardian named it the best hot dog stand in Europe. Further cementing its status, it appeared on "Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations." Bourdain famously declared it “good drunk food” — a perfect late-night treat after a long day of sightseeing or partying.
In 2021, John Green added to the stand’s accolades in his book, "The Anthropocene Reviewed," where he wrote:
“I found the hot dog at Baejarins Beztu Pylsur not just worthy of the hype but, if anything, underappreciated. I don’t even particularly like hot dogs, but that hot dog was among the most joyous culinary experiences of my life.”
With such a stellar reputation, it's no wonder that both locals and tourists eagerly line up at the stand. While the queues can get long, they move quickly, and the reward is always worth the wait.
Craving More Delicious Icelandic Flavors? Take a Tour!
Iceland offers so much more than just hot dogs. Its cuisine is rich with unique flavors and traditional dishes waiting to be explored. Be sure to try iconic Icelandic foods like skyr, a creamy yogurt-like dairy product that’s been a staple for centuries. Or indulge in traditional dishes like hakarl (fermented shark) and lamb stew.
To learn more about the diverse culinary scene, check out our ultimate guide to Iceland's food culture and discover the rich flavors that define the island’s cuisine.
If you’re ready to dive deeper, consider joining one of these food-focused tours.
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Reykjavik Food Walk — Explore the city of Reykjavik through the local food on this mouth-watering walking tour.
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Small-Group Food Walking Tour in the Heart of Reykjavik — Embark on this tour that’s sure to be a food lover's delight with authentic Icelandic cuisine.
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Small-Group 3-Hour Traditional Icelandic Food Tour in Reykjavik — Indulge in Icelandic favorites, including hot dogs, on this tour around Reykjavik.
For more culinary experiences across Iceland, explore our full selection of food and drink tours and discover even more mouthwatering dishes and culinary gems around the country.
Line Up for Iceland’s Iconic Baejarins Beztu
Photo above from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by cjuneau. No edits made.
Whether you’re in Reykjavik for a short visit or a more extended stay, no trip to the capital is complete without a stop at Baejarins Beztu Pylsur. This renowned hot dog stand has earned its place in Icelandic hearts, serving up delicious, quality hot dogs with a side of history and local flair.
With its blend of savory ingredients, unique toppings, and a chance to join both locals and tourists in a beloved tradition, Baejarins Beztu Pylsur is a must-try experience that will leave you craving more. Grab your hot dog, find a picnic table, and enjoy.
Craving more delicious bites in the city? Check out our guide to the best value places to eat in Reykjavik and discover more great spots to enjoy Icelandic flavors. Or, if you’re after fine dining, don’t miss our top restaurants in Reykjavik for an elevated culinary experience.
Where is Baejarins Beztu Pylsur located?
Baejarins Beztu also runs several other outlets around the capital area. These include a counter inside the Austurstraeti 10/11 store, Smaralind Shopping Mall in Kopavogur, the Skeifan and Holtagardar shopping districts, the Breidholt district, and Keflavik International Airport.
