How expensive is dining out in Iceland? Let’s take a closer look
Iceland is a country that can surprise in many ways – both when it comes to views and… restaurant prices. Have you ever wondered why a dinner out in Reykjavik can cost more than a vacation by the Baltic Sea? Well, sit back because the answer isn’t simple. But hey, who said traveling is only about relaxation? Let me tell you why an Icelandic menu might make your heart race – and not necessarily because of spicy dishes. But don’t worry, I also have some tips on how to save a few kronas.
The cost of living in Iceland – how restaurant prices hit your wallet?
Imagine this: you’re in a country where only 350,000 people live. Doesn’t sound like a problem, right? But now think about the fact that everything you eat, from avocados to beef, has to be brought from afar. And no, I’m not talking about a trip from the nearby supermarket. In Iceland, even though they grow tomatoes and cucumbers in greenhouses under special lights, it’s still just a drop in the ocean of demand. Most of the food you get on your plate in restaurants is imported, and that costs… a lot. That’s why sometimes it’s better to eat a cheese sandwich than a three-course meal. But this is Iceland, so maybe it’s worth going for something more?
And now a moment for reflection: taxes. You know, those annoying amounts that show up on the receipt? Iceland has one of the highest VAT rates in Europe, around 24%. And yes, you guessed it – that’s another reason why the bill in an Icelandic eatery might give you a headache. Restaurant owners have to cover these taxes, and we, poor tourists, end up paying more. It’s like paying extra for a museum ticket, but instead – for your dinner. Ah, the joys of traveling!
High minimum wage = more expensive burgers?
OK, you might think: “What does a salary have to do with my burger?”. Well, more than you’d think. In Iceland, the minimum wage is about 350,000 ISK, which, when converted to euros, amounts to roughly €2,500 a month. Not bad, right? The problem is, every worker, from the waiter to the cook, has to earn that much. And who pays for it? Yes, you guessed it – you! So, the next time you see 15,000 ISK (around €100) on the bill for dinner, remember that you’re supporting the local economy and the efforts of all those people working so you can enjoy your burger.
For comparison: in other European countries, labor costs in the hospitality industry are significantly lower, which makes dining out cheaper. But Iceland is a completely different story, and that’s why prices are so high here. Of course, I could say that this is the only obstacle, but I wouldn’t be myself if I didn’t add a few more “attractions.”
How not to go broke while eating in Iceland?
Relax, there are ways to survive the culinary adventure in Iceland without an empty wallet. You just have to know where to look. Start with the “dish of the day.” I know, I know – it sounds boring, but in Iceland, this could be your savior. Many restaurants and cafes offer daily sets at lower prices. And if you’re lucky, outside of the tourist season, you’ll find plenty of promotions. Who would have thought that a paradise for fish soup lovers could be so generous?
Besides, it’s worth focusing on local products. Icelandic fish? Genius! Lamb? One of the best in the world. If you skip imported delicacies in favor of what’s grown and swimming around Iceland, you can save some money. Oh, and don’t forget about hot dogs. Seriously, Icelandic hot dogs are a real legend! For something that costs less than coffee, it might be the best investment of your life.
- Order the dish of the day – it really works!
- Take advantage of promotions – look for offers in cafes
- Choose local products – fish, lamb, those things
- Avoid tourist traps – seriously, those places are like ATMs for restaurateurs
Icelandic cuisine – what’s worth trying?
If you decide to invest in a proper dinner, I recommend the classics. Start with “ktofiski,” which is dried fish. Sounds weird, but Icelanders love this dish, and if they love it, maybe it’s worth giving it a try. Lamb is another must-have. Really, you won’t find better in any other country. And add fish soup – perfect for a cold Icelandic evening. While the prices are high, the quality of the products will definitely not disappoint you.
Icelanders don’t joke around when it comes to food. Their traditional dishes are made with the highest quality ingredients, and the country’s cuisine is a real treat for the taste buds. So maybe it’s worth spending a few extra kronas to experience Icelandic cuisine in all its glory? Maybe you’ll have to tighten your belt a bit when you get home, but the memories are priceless, right?
Is eating in restaurants in Iceland expensive?
Iceland – the land of ice, fire, and… absurd dinner bills? Well, I won’t lie to you – it’s not cheap. Once, sitting in Reykjavik, I paid as much for a burger as you would for a good pair of shoes back home. But I’ll tell you one thing – it was worth it. Besides, imagine this scene: you’re sitting in a restaurant with a view of a volcano, drinking coffee (for which you could buy half a supermarket in Poland), but the feeling… priceless. Meal prices can range from €20 to €60, depending on whether you stop by a downtown Reykjavik spot or opt for more local options. And what about fast food? Well, even a hamburger in Iceland comes with a price – and it’s higher than in most European cities.
Rental costs affect restaurant prices
So where do these astronomical prices come from? The answer is simple – rent. Renting a place in downtown Reykjavik costs so much that owners have to raise prices to stay afloat. I had the chance to talk to the manager of one of the more popular spots, and he told me that sometimes he wonders if he shouldn’t sell hamburgers by the ounce of gold. And although the center is expensive, you can find something more affordable on the outskirts of the city, although… it still won’t be the price you’d see in a Polish milk bar. It’s also worth considering booking meals in advance – sometimes that can save your wallet!
Dining out versus cooking at home
Now let’s talk about an option that can save your budget in Iceland – cooking. Yes, I know, traveling isn’t a time to be slaving over the stove, but I’ll tell you from experience that shopping in the supermarket and cooking in a rented apartment can be the key to surviving on this expensive island. Prices in stores? Higher than in Poland, but still more reasonable than a restaurant bill. I’m telling you – a stock of bread, butter, and local cheese can be your best friend. And if you manage to get something fresh at the local market, you’re the master of savings!
Is it worth eating local products?
And now the gem – Icelandic specialties. Seriously, the first time I tried fermented shark, I wanted to leave the restaurant backwards. But, as they say, when in Rome… Iceland is a paradise for fish and lamb lovers, and those freshly caught fish? Amazing. Sure, a traditional meal can cost between €30 and €100, but the experience tastes better than money (or so I tell myself). Many restaurants offer seasonal ingredients, so it’s worth diving into something you won’t eat anywhere else in the world. You only live once, right?
What are the cheaper food options in Iceland?
Okay, now something for savvy travelers. If you don’t want to spend a fortune on every dinner, I’ve got a few tricks for you. First – food trucks. Icelandic food trucks are gold! For €10-15, you can get a solid burger, hot dog, or fish and chips. And if you want to cut costs even more, check out supermarkets. There you’ll find ready-made sandwiches and salads that will save you from going bankrupt. And remember, lunch promotions are something you really want to keep an eye on. Some restaurants offer cheaper lunch menus – a great option if you don’t want to overpay for dinner.
The cost of drinks and alcohol in restaurants
Drinks – a real trap in Iceland. A beer for €12? It’s no joke. Wine? You can already start calculating how much you’d buy for that in your home country. Of course, you can try to limit these expenses by buying alcohol at duty-free at the airport or in special liquor stores. By the way, an interesting fact – drinking alcohol in public places is regulated in Iceland, so restaurants have a monopoly on expensive alcohol. Does that mean you should give it up entirely? Maybe not, but it’s worth thinking about so you don’t burn through your entire budget on drinks.
Is it worth planning meals in advance?
And now the best advice I can give you – plan, plan, and plan again! Iceland is not a place for spontaneously walking into the first restaurant you see. Booking a table in advance not only helps avoid unexpected costs but sometimes you’ll stumble upon promotions for those who reserved early. And those culinary events – a true paradise for foodies! Also, remember to mix things up – one day a restaurant, the next cooking in your apartment. This kind of balance will help you manage expenses while still tasting the best flavors Iceland has to offer without the need for a loan.