Watching Iceland come into its own as a vegan dining destination over the past five years has been a joy. The Icelandic restaurant scene is diversifying, and the definition of what may be deemed “Icelandic cuisine” is broadening and taking on new shapes. Thanks to this new-found culinary confidence—and the added footfall of tourism—this tiny scene is experiencing an unprecedented moment of opportunity. Whether it’s carefully-pleated Sichuanese vegan dumplings or exploratory tasting menus at Nordic fine dining houses, the bandwagon has room for demanding diners. Our hand-picked panel of picky gourmands have sought out the very best of Reykjavík dining to help you navigate the gastronomic waters of the capital area. From budget bites to fanciful fare, we’ve got you covered.
Best Vegan Burger
Veganæs
Tryggvagata 22
Veganæs has answered the prayers of those yearning for diner fare that also happens to be cruelty free. Despite towing the seitan line, the Spicy Seitanic Burger is crunchy, spicy, greasy and oh so satisfying. Vegan cheese meltiness issues aside, this is a toothsome burger and the accompanying fries are fancy with their herby frills. The cocktail sauce is also on the money, so mayo-deprived vegans can shed tears of joy. Who knew a vegan dive-bar could be this much fun?
Runner-Up:
Roadhouse Reykjavik
Snorrabraut 56
When the panel praises a vegan burger as a “divine guilty pleasure,” you better believe it. Roadhouse’s celery root burger is a beacon of vegan-friendly hope in a mock-meat world. Relying on the inherent blandness of celery root, the grill lends it an unexpected smoky complexity. Simply delicious.
Runner-Up:
Hagavagninn
Hofsvallagata 52
Newcomer With one of Iceland’s most popular rappers behind the team, Hagavagninn opened shop in place of the old west side hotdog stand. Their vegan burger has a fan following thanks to the fat, juicy patty. The pickled red onions add pizazz. As our vegan panellist confirmed: “it tastes even better after a dip in Vesturbæjarlaug.”
Previous Winners
2018: Prikið
2017: Bike Cave
2016: Búllan
Other Dining Categories
- Best Burger
- Best Vegan Burger
- Best Pizza
- Best Sushi
- Best Indian
- Best Chinese
- Best Thai
- Best Italian
- Best Gastropub
- Best Lamb
- Best Soup
- Best Vegan Meal
- Best Seafood
- Best Goddamn Restaurant
- Best Family Restaurant
- Best Lunch
- Best Brunch
- Best Cheap Meal
- Best Place For A Fancy Meal
- Best Tasting Menu
- Best Late Night Bite
- Best Place For A Group
- Best Bakery
- Best Coffeehouse
- Best Ice Cream
- Best Newcomer
- Best Must-Try Dining Experience
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