Local Cuisine in East Iceland
Fish
Iceland’s position in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean means that its people have a long tradition of fish consumption. Traditionally, to ensure it didn’t go off, fish would have been dried outdoors in the sea air; this snack is known as Harðfiskur, you can pick it up from supermarkets, it’s ideal to munch on during a road trip. Cold-water species like cod and halibut feature prominently on menus throughout the country. In Neskaupstaður, The Bait Shack serves a classic dish called plokkfiskur, a comforting stew made with flaked fish, potatoes and onions. For a more adventurous bite, head to Randulff’s Sea House in Eskifjörður, where you can try delicacies like fermented shark or local caviar.
Reindeer
East Iceland is the only region in the country where you’ll find wild reindeer, and their delicious meat has earned a spot on the menu at several local restaurants. In the charming town of Egilsstaðir, you’ll find some standout spots where reindeer can be found on the menu. One such place is Nielsen Restaurant, located in a historic building originally built by a Danish merchant. Today, it serves up a modern Icelandic menu with locally inspired dishes like reindeer tataki and reindeer terrine, both beautifully plated and full of flavour. Another must-visit is Lyng Restaurant, where you might find dishes like reindeer steak served with traditional Icelandic sides.
Reindeer tataki, Nielsen Restaurant
Lamb
Sheep thrive in Iceland and as you journey through Austurland you’ll notice them grazing where there are suitable pastures. This means that lamb isn’t hard to find on restaurant menus, whether as the star ingredient of a delicious soup or as a succulent steak. One standout is the Icelandic classic, Kjötsúpa, a traditional lamb and vegetable soup beloved for its warmth and simplicity. It's a perfect choice on a chilly day, especially if you're passing through the highlands of Möðrudalur, where the Fjalladýrð restaurant serves a wonderfully authentic version.
Other traditional dishes, like Hangikjöt (smoked lamb) and Svið (roasted sheep’s head), are typically reserved for special occasions and holidays. However, if you're curious to try them outside of festive seasons, you'll often find them as cold cuts in local supermarkets, offering a taste of Icelandic heritage in a more casual form.
Hot dogs
When it comes to fast food in Iceland, nothing beats the beloved hot dog or Pylsa, as the locals call it. Served with a medley of toppings, crispy fried onions, raw onions, sweet brown mustard (pylsusinnep), ketchup and a creamy remoulade, bursting with flavour in every bite. It is perfect for a quick and satisfying snack or light lunch, especially when you’re out exploring the sights of Austurland. For a local twist, grab one at Kaupfjelagið Art and Craft Café in Breiðdalsvík, where you can enjoy your Pylsa with a side of culture. You’ll also find them at most petrol stations across the region, making it easy to fuel both your adventure and your appetite.
Baked goods
One sweet treat every Icelander knows from childhood is the beloved Kleina, a twisted doughnut that’s golden, lightly crisp on the outside, and wonderfully soft on the inside. Absolutely delicious, it’s the kind of pastry that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. You can find them at Sesam Brauðhús in Reyðarfjörður, an artisan bakery known for its mouthwatering selection of breads, buns, and cakes. Their counter is a feast for the senses, featuring everything from warm cinnamon buns to the traditional Happy Marriage Cake (Hjónabandssæla) and even birch bread, each item tempting you to try just one more bite.
Skyr
Often mistaken for yogurt, skyr is a traditional Icelandic dairy product made through a unique process that gives it a rich, creamy texture and mild, tangy flavour. While it's popular on menus as a dessert, often paired with fresh berries, it’s also a breakfast staple across the country.
In Egilsstaðir, you can enjoy a delicious and nourishing start to your day at Lyng Restaurant, where they offer skyr bowls for pickup daily. Or enjoy skyr as the grand finale to a fantastic meal at Eldhúsið Restaurant, where a locally produced skyr is paired with rhubarb sorbet and white chocolate.
Skyr & Rhubarb, Eldhusid restaurant
Ice cream
Let’s round off this article with ice cream, beloved of Icelanders across the country even throughout the winter. However, if you’re here in summer, reward yourself after the long hike with an ice cream at the Hengifoss food truck (it’s located at the car park so technically you don’t even have to do the walk first). They serve Sauðagull sheep milk ice cream here as well as refreshing sorbets and the wide range of flavours, all homemade and delicious, guaranteed to put a smile on your face.