Reykjavik takes its coffee seriously, with a café on practically every downtown corner. If you’re wandering through town looking for a solid cup of joe and a sweet treat to go with it, you won’t be disappointed by these recommended favorites.
Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, beckons with its irresistible charm, and a crucial part of that charm lies in its abundant collection of cafés. These havens of warmth and hospitality are scattered throughout the city, each one a cozy retreat illuminated by inviting, warm lighting, creating the perfect atmosphere for indulging in a comforting hot latte or your favorite coffee beverage. On brisk mornings, as the Icelandic air invigorates your senses, or on snowy evenings, when the city sparkles under a blanket of white, there are dozens of exceptional places in Reykjavik where you can savor the rich flavors of coffee. However, what truly sets our favorite cafés apart are their unique and captivating features. Imagine browsing through a curated collection of vintage vinyl records, losing yourself in the nostalgic crackle and pop as you sip your coffee. Or perhaps you’d prefer to delve into a library of intriguing books, each page offering a new adventure while the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air. Some cafés even boast award-winning beans roasted on site, ensuring that every cup is a testament to quality and craftsmanship. To guide your caffeinated exploration, we’ve curated a list of our top picks for the very best coffee shops and cafés in Reykjavik, promising an unforgettable experience for every coffee lover.
## Reykjavik Roasters: A Coffee Lover’s Mecca
Widely acclaimed as serving the best coffee in Reykjavik, Reykjavik Roasters stands as a testament to passion and expertise. The skilled baristas at Reykjavik Roasters take immense pride in their craft, and their dedication to brewing excellence has earned them prestigious trophies from coffee competitions all over the world. They have thoughtfully established two distinct locations to cater to diverse preferences. The first, a smaller and exceptionally popular spot, sits virtually right next door to the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church, making it an ideal starting point for your Reykjavik adventures. The second location is just a few blocks from Hlemmur Square, offering a slightly more relaxed atmosphere. The former tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak hours. To secure your spot, we recommend arriving early in the morning to snag a comfy couch and a delectable croissant. From your vantage point, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the city, observing the steady stream of tourists and locals as they go about their day. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more conducive environment for productivity, you can head with your laptop to the latter location. However, be prepared to compete with the students from the nearby Iceland Academy of Arts, who often seek inspiration and caffeine within its walls.
*Kárastígur 1 and Brautarholt 2*
## Sandholt: Where Pastries and Brunch Dreams Come True
Sandholt Bakery, a beloved institution in Reykjavik, underwent a remarkable expansion last year, further solidifying its reputation as a culinary gem. Now, Sandholt boasts an even more extensive array of succulent pastries, creative chocolate bars that tantalize the taste buds, and incredible brunches that are a feast for the senses. Many Icelanders wholeheartedly claim that it’s the best bakery in the entire city, and we certainly won’t argue with their assessment. We highly recommend a visit for the irresistible croissants, flaky and buttery perfection that will leave you craving more. And while you’re there, be sure to stay for the smoked salmon breakfast, a delightful symphony of flavors that perfectly captures the essence of Icelandic cuisine. What’s more, Sandholt opens its doors exceptionally early, making it the perfect haven for tourists arriving into town on the red eye, allowing you to kickstart your Icelandic adventure with a delicious and energizing breakfast.
*Laugavegur 36*
## Kaffi Loki: A Taste of Iceland
Kaffi Loki enjoys widespread popularity among tourists, and for very good reason. Beyond its excellent coffee offerings, its menu boasts a tantalizing selection of small plates featuring authentic Icelandic specialties, making it an exceptional place to sample a little bit of everything that Icelandic cuisine has to offer. Here, you can embark on a culinary adventure, trying traditional dishes such as mashed fish on rye bread, a hearty and comforting classic; meat soup, a warming and flavorful broth that embodies Icelandic comfort food; Icelandic pancakes, delicate and sweet treats that are perfect for a light snack; smoked lamb, a savory delicacy that showcases the unique flavors of Icelandic lamb; and, for the truly adventurous, the notorious fermented shark, a challenging but unforgettable experience. Furthermore, Kaffi Loki’s prime location, right across from the impressive facade of Hallgrimskirkja, the largest and most iconic church in Iceland, makes it an ideal central location to take a well-deserved coffee break while exploring the wonders of downtown Reykjavik.
*28 Lokastígur*
## Café Babalú: A Whimsical Escape
Café Babalú stands out as a colorful and quirky little café, nestled right in the heart of downtown Reykjavik. With its generously sized tables and vintage, slouching chairs, it offers a comfortable and inviting space to settle in with a good book or savor one of their delicious sweet crepes, which are renowned for their delightful fillings and perfect texture. The café exudes the charm of an old-timey house, with its cheerful yellow paint, exposed brick walls, and a welcoming patio that beckons you to soak in the sun during the glorious Icelandic summer.
*Skólavörðustígur 22*
## Stofan Kaffihús: A Haven for Hipsters and Travelers
Stofan Kaffihús is a bustling coffee shop that tends to attract a diverse crowd of hipsters and tourists alike. Located just off of Ingólfstorg Square and nestled within an old house, its ample vintage couches and thoughtfully curated decor might tempt you into a relaxing nap if you’re not careful. Come for an engaging selection of board games, a large library of books to lose yourself in, free wifi to stay connected, and a fantastic happy hour each day. Furthermore, Stofan Kaffihús stays open late, making it an ideal spot for the digital traveler who needs a comfortable and productive workspace late into the night.
*Aðalstræti*
B-1154