Top Coffee Shops in Reykjavík and Nearby Areas

Embark on a caffeine-fueled journey through the finest coffee shops we’ve personally experienced in and around Reykjavík. With Iceland ranking as the third largest coffee consumer per capita globally, our curated list of favorite spots in Reykjavík and beyond captures the essence of our coffee adventures.

At Hidden Iceland, our passion for quality coffee runs deep. We’ve handpicked a selection of cafés that highlight our coffee journey, featuring some gems situated both within Reykjavík and a little further afield. Many of Iceland’s major attractions are within easy reach of the city. A mere three-hour drive can whisk you to the Golden Circle, where you can hike on a glacier or explore a lava cave. As we set off to partake in these extraordinary experiences, it’s essential to pause and recharge at a café or two along the way.

Why We Prioritize Coffee on Our Tours

At Hidden Iceland, our tours are tailored, adventurous, and designed as if we’re taking our friends and family out for a day of exploration. This approach ensures that we visit not only the best locations but also uncover hidden gems, all while embracing a sense of adventure. We understand that travel isn’t a sprint; rather, it’s an opportunity to slow down, reflect, and unwind as you discover new locales. We wholeheartedly agree that there should always be time for at least one good coffee stop throughout the day! Not to mention, our guides share the same enthusiasm for a well-crafted brew.

BEST COFFEE SHOPS IN REYKJAVÍK

Hygge Coffee & Micro Bakery has recently joined Reykjavík’s bustling coffee scene with two locations: one in West Town and another right in the heart of the city. Here, patrons can enjoy their beverage of choice alongside delectable pastries baked on-site, notably a selection of vegan options— a rarity in these parts— as well as toasted sandwiches and hearty soups perfect for a light lunch. On sunny days, their outdoor seating radiates warmth and light, making it an ideal spot to sip your coffee.

If you seek a coffee experience that prioritizes taste, Reykjavík Roasters stands out as one of Iceland’s finest establishments. With just half a day in Reykjavík, make it a point to stop by and sample their offerings. The meticulous care taken in measuring coffee grains and steaming milk guarantees a perfect cup every time. The staff here exemplifies professionalism, verging on passion; their dedication to the craft is evident, resulting in a noticeable difference in every brew. The café itself boasts a minimalist, hipster vibe complemented by an eclectic playlist often spun on a vintage record player. You’ll find multiple locations in central Reykjavík, providing a welcome retreat after scaling the heights of Hallgrímskirkja church or exploring the storied Laugavegur shopping street in search of souvenirs.

Kaktus Espressobar has two locations in Reykjavík’s lively downtown. The original spot on Vitastígur and a newer branch nestled inside the National Gallery of Iceland offer premium coffee served by enthusiastic baristas in a cozy atmosphere. Both venues feature outdoor seating, making them perfect for enjoying simple yet delightful food and pastries alongside a good brew.

Plantan also boasts two locations in Reykjavík, each with a distinct focus. Plantan Café, just off the main shopping street, serves breakfast, sandwiches, light lunches, and baked goods to accompany your coffee. Meanwhile, Plantan Bistró, located inside the Nordic House, is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and offers a small seasonal menu featuring healthy, satisfying dishes along with quality coffee.

Klambrar Bistro, located within the uniquely designed Kjarvalsstaðir Art Museum, offers a Norwegian-inspired café experience on the edge of a peaceful park where locals gather to walk their dogs or play Frisbee golf. Enjoying a fantastic coffee outdoors while watching the children play can be truly refreshing. On chilly days, large windows ensure you won’t miss the beautiful park views inside. The menu features dishes inspired by Scandinavian cuisine, with ingredients sourced accordingly. Think of delightful cakes, smørrebrød, and comforting soups. After your meal, we recommend exploring the impressive art museum celebrating one of Iceland’s beloved artists before taking a stroll around the park.

For an authentic local experience, Kaffi Vest is a place where travelers mingle less and locals gather more. Situated away from the bustling main streets of downtown Reykjavík, it’s perfectly located to stop by after visiting the nearby Vesturbæjarlaug geothermal pool or en route to the tranquil Grótta Lighthouse, a fantastic location for northern lights viewing. The café also serves a delightful brunch, lunch, and dinner menu that rotates regularly, boasting a curated selection of natural wines. Among my personal favorites is their Eggs Benedict, paired with their homemade carrot cake, all complemented by a perfectly crafted latte.

BEST COFFEE SHOPS OUTSIDE OF REYKJAVÍK

One delightful gem is a converted American school bus, which was once a glacier guiding vehicle. After its adventurous life, Holly, the owner, rescued it and transformed it into south Iceland’s first micro-roaster and tea lab. All coffee beans are roasted on site in the quaint village. Holly is a bit of a wizard when it comes to concocting new hot chocolate recipes as well, so don’t limit yourself to the impeccably roasted coffee alone. The café is bursting with charm, thanks to her friendly feline sidekick, Jeffarious Edward the First, who prefers to observe you from afar, perhaps dreaming of better days spent lounging in front of a fireplace.

Hidden Iceland often stops at this café on many of our private tours along the south coast or during our two-day tour if time allows. For those who are self-driving, we always recommend making a pit stop here. Though Holly’s coffee shop has been open since the summer of 2020, her menu has already expanded to include an array of coffee beans, hot chocolates, exotic teas, and yummy bagels with various toppings.

While many may order their drinks to-go on their south coast journey, I prefer to settle in by the open fire, warming my toes on chilly days. Holly is always eager for a chat when the café isn’t bustling.

Have you ever sipped coffee surrounded by 21-foot-high tomato plants and buzzing bees, in the heart of winter, in Iceland, all powered by volcanic geothermal heat? If not, Friðheimar is an experience not to be missed during your visit to the Golden Circle.

The café specializes in tomato-based dishes—think delicious tomato soup, mozzarella pizza, and ravioli—that alone are worth the visit. But then, there’s the option of tomato-infused coffee (yes, you read that right), which might just become the highlight of your culinary experience. Of course, they also serve traditional coffee for those who shy away from adventurous flavors.

For the daring, I highly recommend trying it. As they say, when in Rome—or in this case, when in a geothermal greenhouse. After your meal, make sure to explore the greenhouse and perhaps visit the stables to meet friendly Icelandic horses—just remember, they’re not ponies!

Hidden Iceland includes this unique restaurant on our Golden Circle: Platinum Tour and during our private Golden Circle with Northern Lights tour.

Located north of Reykjavík on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Sjávarpakkhúsið restaurant is worth dedicating a full day—or more—to explore. This charming fishing village offers far more than meets the eye. Here, the focus is on local ingredients, sustainably sourced, and prepared with care to minimize environmental impact.

Locals often gather here for a sociable coffee before the lunchtime and dinner rush begins. Personally, I recommend pairing your coffee with lunch in the warm, inviting atmosphere. You’ll be tempted to linger long after your cup is finished. The friendly, knowledgeable staff only adds to the experience.

If lunch is on your agenda (highly recommended), take your time to study the menu. Much of what you’ll see is sourced from nearby farms and ports. Hidden Iceland includes a visit to Sjávarpakkhúsið on our Snæfellsnes Peninsula day tour, and if you’re staying overnight in Stykkishólmur, it’s the perfect place to enjoy dinner before setting off for northern lights viewing in winter.

Coffee in Akureyri
Akureyri, North Iceland

In recent years, Akureyri has blossomed into a hub renowned for exceptional dining, vibrant cafes, art, and activities. Honorable mentions include Lyst, nestled within the botanical gardens, Ketilkaffi Café inside the Akureyri Art Museum, Eyjan Wine Bar, and our go-to restaurant in the area, North by Dill. With so much to savor, it’s easy to spend days delighting in Akureyri’s culinary offerings.

The newest addition to this ever-growing scene is Kaffistofan, a specialty coffee shop and roaster that takes pride in offering traceable, ethically sourced beans roasted locally in small batches. Each sip offers a true “taste of the north.”

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Hello, I’m Ryan Connolly, Co-Founder and Marketing Manager of Hidden Iceland. My journey has taken me across multiple countries and all seven continents. My love for the outdoors, science, nature, glaciers, and volcanoes has led me to study and write about Iceland. I have been featured in Forbes, Condé Nast Traveler, and Travel Pulse discussing various topics.