Iceland is well known for host of things, but after spending almost a week long trip to Iceland, one thing I noticed more than the obvious things like volcanos and glaciers, is that the food scene in Iceland is remarkable.
I think when you first think of food in Iceland, your thoughts run wild with options like fermented Whale, Smoked fish and Lamb, but this location has so much more to offer in relation to culinary experiences, from local family run fish restaurants serving freshly caught langoustines to fine dining outlets with exquisite dishes using the freshest ingredients, as well as lots of great street food options including their famous Icelandic hot dog kiosk. If I mentioned all the incredible food from week this would be a book rather than a blog, so I have just included some of my favourites.
My first foodie experience in Iceland was at the Fish Company restaurant, which is essentially every fish-lovers dream, it offers a dark and moody modern interior inside a building dating back to 1884. Our table was positioned next to their polaroid food wall which shows photos of guests enjoying their food at the restaurant. Given the name, it should be obvious that the menu is centred around fish (although other options are available including meat and vegetarian). However, the unique aspect of this restaurant is the way the fish is cooked and prepared. It offers fish prepared in different ways focussing around specific countries and their ingredients such as Yuzu from Japan, bell pepper from Argentina, garlic from Italy and more importantly Iceland hosting a freshly caught trio of fish or succulent Lamb Ribeye with a mustard glaze!
The main dining showstopper was the gala dinner which took place at the newly opened Sol restaurant which was hired exclusively for group. This restaurant, despite being on the outskirts of Reykjavik, in a small harbour town was truly exceptional. The restaurant is nestled within a vibrant greenhouse, where guests dine above a lush, thriving harvest of greenery. When you reach the restaurant, after navigating what seems like an industrial area, your immediately captivated but the exterior of the giant greenhouse and out the back of the restaurant is even more incredible with breathtaking scenery.
Sol prides itself on using the freshest local ingredients, including greenery from its own produce. We chose a 6-course tasting menu which ranged from Burrata with fresh tomatoes (grown onsite) , smoked haddock, Shrimps and Chimichurri beef – all of which were served to perfection with a wine pairing to complement. The setting was beautiful, and the staff were attentive whether it was talking about their restaurant vision, their food or serving some delicious award-winning cocktails.
Other food highlights of the trip included.
- Culinary walking tour experiencing some of the best food in Iceland has to offer, which included their famous Icelandic hot dogs with ketchup, mustard and crispy onions.
- Pósthús Mathöll Food Hall with a variety of street-food style vendors and experiencing Funky Bhangra’s epic Indian inspired lamb burger
- Lamb Stew with a local beer from Icelandic Street food served in an entire loaf of bread
- Best dessert of the trip –Date Cake (Kopar restaurant - similar to sticky toffee pudding but better!)
- Coffee at the Edition Hotel – excellent presentation and tasty, and the best way to start the day!
If you are looking for a unique meeting or incentive destination, which offers fabulous hotel choice, great activity options but requires incredible food options then Iceland is that place for you and if you want to know more drop us a line.
