Where to Shop and Eat in Reykjavík
Produced in Collaboration With Inspired by Iceland
Photographs & Words by Alison Engstrom
Curiosities for the Home, Mind, and Body
Nomad
Peruse a curation of design objects at Nomad, including, accordion lights and vases from Bamboo, an automatic tea and coffee brewer from Barisieur, geometric ceramic vases from Heimili, and beauty products from Earl of East. In addition, you’ll find an ample selection of coffee table books, candles, and jewelry. nomadstore.is
For Hair TLC
Hårklinikken
Stop into the Icelandic outpost of Hårklinikken, a salon and boutique that specializes in tonics for thinning hair and other scalp remedies—they also have locations in Europe, USA, and the Middle East. Here you’ll find shampoos that stimulate the scalp, conditioners, and styling products all in an expertly designed space. harklinikken.com (Featured Second Image)
For the Love of Bread and Pastries
Brauð & Co
Located inside a brightly colored spray-painted building—probably with a line snaking out the door—you’ll find a bakery paradise, also known as Brauð & Co. Swing by early in the morning, before they run out, and pick up one of their exquisite sourdough loafs made with organic flour, or buttery pastries—try the vínarbrauð, a decadent confection, laden with Icelandic butter and layered with almond paste, or a croissant. The bread travels well so consider bringing a loaf back home to enjoy. braudogco.is
Visit One of Iceland’s Oldest Bakeries
Sandholt
Since Sandholt opened in 1920, it’s been a celebrated bakery that focuses on incorporating the highest-quality ingredients into their still-life worthy breads. Stop by for a morning pastry or if you are looking for a lunch spot, they also offer a menu with sandwiches, soup, organic wines, and cake. You can also enjoy their bread at The Sky Lagoon’s café. sandholt.is
For a Cozy Dining Experience
Fish Company
Set in a former 19th-century building, Fish Company is devoted to showcasing Icelandic ingredients at their finest, while simultaneously taking diners around the world with its menu. Under the helm of Chef Lárus Gunnar Jónasson, they offer memorable dishes, for a starter try the India Tandoori, where hispi cabbage gets baked until it practically melts in your mouth and is garnished with oat and coriander purée; or sample the USA Cranberry, where caramelized pistachios and greens sit atop a mouthwatering grape and parmesan paste; for a main, order the fish of the day which is accompanied by butter laden potato purée. Another highlight, the fresh sourdough served with noisette-laced butter. Reservations are recommended. fiskfelagid.is
Hyalin
Hylalin is a one-stop shop for French provisions in Iceland courtesy of Arnaud-Pierre Fourtané and Didier Fitan, who relocated to Reykjavik in 2015. Inside this provencal-inspired shop you’ll find chocolate bars from Bonnat, a variety of flavored vinegars, extra virgin olive oil, and a sampling of cheeses from their home country. hyalin-shop.com
For Something Sweet Visit
Vínberið
Indulge your sweet tooth by visiting Vínberið, a confection store specializing in coco-filled goodness from around the world, including bars, bon bons, and a local favorite, licorice treats. vinberid.is
For Vintage Clothing
Add unique pieces to your wardrobe by exploring the Reykjavik vintage shopping scene. A few places of note are located on Laugavegur, the main shopping street. Browse Sputnik’s racks of clothing from the 80s and 90s; further afoot is Verzlanahöllinn, where you can hunt for treasures like clothing, home goods, and more. Many visitors to Iceland want to leave with a coveted hand-knotted wool sweater, a tip, pick up one second-hand.
Browse Scandinavian Fashion Designers
Andrá Reykjavík
Uncover a new and upcoming fashion brands, with Scandinavian designers at the forefront, at Andrá. Here you’ll find dresses, accessories, and jewelry from brands like Rodebjer, Stine Goya, Beck Söndergaard, and Aníta Hirlekar. andrareykjavik.com