Step into a true Reykjavik tradition at Baejarins Beztu Pylsur, where locals and travelers have lined up for Iceland’s favorite hot dogs since 1937.
Baejarins Beztu Pylsur has been a Reykjavik landmark for over 85 years, serving hot dogs made with a unique blend of lamb, pork, and beef. Translated as “The Town’s Best Hot Dogs,” Baejarins Beztu Pylsur has earned its reputation as a must-visit stop.
The famous Reykjavik hot dog stand is located on Tryggvagata Street. There are also several other locations around the capital, including in shopping malls like Smaralind and various districts in Reykjavik. No matter where you are, it’s the perfect stop during your city tour!
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.
Photo above from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by cjuneau. No edits made.
A Taste of Tradition — The Legacy Behind Baejarins Beztu Pylsur
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.
FAQs About Baejarins Beztu Pylsur
Got some serious hot dog questions? We’ve gathered a few helpful answers to make your visit to Baejarins Beztu Pylsur even more enjoyable.
Where is Baejarins Beztu Pylsur located?
The flagship stand of Baejarins Beztu Pylsur is located at Tryggvagata 1, 101 Reykjavik, near the Harpa Concert Hall and the city harbor. This central location is easily accessible and a must-visit in the capital.
In addition to the main stand, Baejarins Beztu operates several other locations in and around Reykjavik:
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Austurstraeti 10/11 — Just around the corner from the traditional stand, this outlet inside the 10/11 store provides a convenient option for skipping the crowd while still enjoying the same delicious hot dogs.
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Smaralind Shopping Mall — Located in the suburb of Kopavogur, this outlet offers the same iconic hot dogs in a convenient indoor setting.
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Skeifan Shopping District — Situated in Reykjavik, this stand caters to shoppers and passersby with its delicious offerings.
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Holtagardar Shopping District — Also in Reykjavik, this location provides easy access to Baejarins Beztu's popular hot dogs.
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Breidholt District — This outlet serves the eastern part of Reykjavik, bringing the famous Icelandic hot dog to more residents and visitors.
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Keflavik Airport — For travelers, Baejarins Beztu operates a stand at Keflavik International Airport, allowing you to enjoy their hot dogs before departing or upon arrival.
Each location strives to deliver the authentic taste and experience that Baejarins Beztu Pylsur is known for. Whether in the heart of Reykjavik or traveling through the airport, you can enjoy their iconic Icelandic hot dogs.
How do I pronounce Baejarins Beztu Pylsur?
Baejarins Beztu Pylsur is pronounced as "BYE-yah-rins BEST-oo PILL-sir," so you’ll be ready to say it like a local when ordering Iceland's famous hot dog.
Can I dine in?
Baejarins Beztu Pylsur doesn’t offer traditional indoor seating, but it does provide a nice outdoor experience. You can enjoy your hot dog at one of the nearby picnic tables or use the hot dog holders provided at the stand. Expect to stand in line with both locals and fellow tourists, but don’t worry — lines move quickly, and the experience is part of the fun.
Do Baejarins Beztu Pylsur hot dogs accommodate dietary restrictions?
The hot dogs at Baejarins Beztu Pylsur are made with a blend of lamb, pork, and beef, meaning they are not kosher or halal. If you have dietary restrictions, it's always a good idea to check the ingredients before ordering.
Currently, Baejarins Beztu does not offer a vegan hot dog. However, all of the toppings are plant-based, so if you skip the sausage, you can still enjoy the flavors by customizing a bun with raw onions, crispy fried onions, mustard, ketchup, and remoulade.
What combination of toppings should I try?
For a truly local experience, try the pylsur med ollu, which means “hot dog with everything.” This includes all the delicious toppings: crispy fried onions, raw onions (though many locals skip these), ketchup, sweet mustard, and remoulade. If you're feeling adventurous, this is the go-to choice for an authentic Icelandic hot dog.
Insider Tip: Pylsur med ollu is pronounced “PILL-sir meth UTH-loo.”
What’s the best time to visit Baejarins Beztu Pylsur?
The stand is open late, making it a popular spot for anyone in Reykjavik. If you want to avoid long lines, try visiting during off-peak hours, like early afternoons or weekdays. However, the stand is always busy, so be prepared to wait in line — especially in the evenings and on weekends.
If you’d prefer to skip the crowds, consider visiting one of Baejarins Beztu’s other locations around Reykjavik, such as those in shopping malls or districts like Smaralind or Skeifan.
Savor the Taste of Baejarins Beztu Pylsur
Photo from Flickr, Creative Commons, by Comdor. 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.
