Reykjavík, Iceland’s vibrant capital, is not only known for its stunning landscapes, unique architecture, and rich history, but also for its thriving café culture. Whether you're looking for the perfect espresso to kickstart your day or a cozy spot to unwind, the cafés of downtown Reykjavík offer something for every coffee lover. Let’s take a tour through some of the best places to sip a hot brew in this charming city.

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1. Brikk – Háteigsvegur

Brikk – Háteigsvegur is a family-owned bakery and café located at Háteigsvegur. Established in 2017, Brikk has become a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking high-quality baked goods and a cozy atmosphere.

What to Expect

• Artisan Sourdough and Pastries: Brikk specializes in sourdough baking, offering a variety of breads and pastries made from high-quality ingredients. Their menu includes items like cheddar & jalapeño sourdough bread, cinnamon rolls, Nutella pastries, and salt caramel rolls.
• Savory Options: In addition to sweet treats, Brikk serves soups, salads, and sandwiches. Popular choices include their soup of the day served with fresh bread, and croissant sandwiches with fillings like parma ham and pesto.
• Cozy Ambiance: The café offers a warm and inviting environment, making it an ideal spot to relax with a cup of coffee and a pastry. The open kitchen concept allows customers to observe the baking process, adding to the overall experience .

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2. Reykjavík Roasters – Freyjugata

Reykjavík Roasters is a specialty coffee haven located at Freyjugata, nestled within the Ásmundarsalur art hall. This café is one of the three locations of Reykjavík Roasters, each offering a unique ambiance and experience.

What to Expect

• Specialty Coffee: Reykjavík Roasters is renowned for its high-quality, freshly roasted beans sourced directly from farmers. The café offers a concise espresso-based menu, daily batch brew, and a selection of single-origin pour-overs using methods like AeroPress and Kalita Wave .
• Vegan-Friendly Options: The menu caters to various dietary preferences, featuring vegan-friendly items such as avocado toast and oat milk for coffee.
• Homemade Pastries: Enjoy a selection of freshly baked goods, including scones, cinnamon rolls, and other treats, perfect for pairing with your coffee.
• Cozy Ambiance: The café's interior boasts a Scandinavian-inspired design with light wood furniture, potted plants, and soft lighting, creating a hygge-like atmosphere that's perfect for relaxing or working.

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3. Plantan Kaffihús

Plantan Kaffihús is a charming, all-vegan café nestled in the heart of Reykjavík at Njálsgata. With its cozy ambiance and commitment to plant-based cuisine, it's a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

What to Expect

• Vegan Delights: Plantan Kaffihús offers a diverse menu featuring a variety of vegan dishes, including sandwiches, soups, and baked goods. Popular items include their cheese & jalapeño rolls and cinnamon rolls. They also serve a selection of cakes, such as lemon cake and carrot cake, all made in-house.
• Quality Coffee: The café takes pride in its coffee, collaborating with Kaffibrugghúsið to select exceptional beans. They offer a range of coffee options, including seasonal drinks like peppermint lattes. The coffee is praised for its rich flavors and smooth texture. Many milk alternatives.
• Sustainable Practices: Plantan Kaffihús is committed to sustainability, using eco-friendly practices in their operations. They focus on using high-quality, plant-based ingredients and strive to minimize their environmental impact.
• Cozy Atmosphere: The café's interior is adorned with plants and natural light, creating a warm and inviting space. It's an ideal spot to relax, work, or catch up with friends over a cup of coffee.

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4. Wake and Bake

Wake and Bake is a cozy café located at Hverfisgata, offering a delightful selection of freshly baked goods and specialty coffee in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

What to Expect:

• Bagels & Sandwiches: Enjoy a variety of bagels and sandwiches, including favorites like the "Fat Mike" (bacon, melted cheddar, avocado, fried onions, and sweet mustard) and the "Salmon and Garfunkel" (cream cheese, salmon, red onions, chives, and avocado).
• Baked Goods: Indulge in freshly baked scones, muffins, cookies, and cinnamon buns, with options like blueberry, lemon, and Nutella muffins, as well as raspberry and cinnamon buns.
• Specialty Coffees: Savor expertly brewed coffees, including espresso, lattes, cappuccinos, and hot chocolate, made with quality beans to complement your meal. Many milk alternatives.

Why Visit:

• Cozy Ambiance: The café's warm and inviting interior provides a comfortable setting for enjoying your meal or catching up with friends.
• Friendly Service: Customers consistently praise the attentive and welcoming staff, contributing to a pleasant dining experience.
• Convenient Location: Situated in the city center, Wake and Bake is an ideal stop during your exploration of Reykjavík.

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5. Kaktus Espressobar – Vitastígur

Kaktus Espressobar is a cozy specialty coffee shop nestled at Vitastígur, offering a delightful blend of Scandinavian design, exceptional coffee, and a warm atmosphere. Founded by two Icelandic friends, this charming café has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.‍

What to Expect at Kaktus Espressobar

• Specialty Coffee: Kaktus Espressobar takes pride in serving high-quality coffee, ensuring each cup is crafted to perfection.
• Vegan-Friendly Menu: The café offers a variety of vegan options, including banana bread, scones, sandwiches, and plant-based milk for coffee (oat, almond, coconut), catering to diverse dietary preferences.
• Homemade Treats: Indulge in freshly baked goods such as pistachio croissants, chia pudding, and date balls, all prepared on-site to satisfy your sweet cravings.
• Charming Ambiance: The café's interior features clean lines, light wood accents, and potted plants, creating a hygge-inspired environment that's perfect for relaxing or catching up with friends.
• Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected while enjoying your coffee, as Kaktus Espressobar provides complimentary Wi-Fi for its patrons.

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6. Reykjavík Roasters – Kárastígur

Nestled in the heart of Reykjavík at Kárastígur, Reykjavík Roasters is a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts seeking expertly brewed beverages in a cozy, minimalist setting. Established in 2008 as Kaffismiðja Íslands, the café underwent renovations in 2013 and was rebranded as Reykjavík Roasters. Housed in a charming 1929 building, it offers a warm atmosphere that invites patrons to relax and savor their coffee.

What to Expect

• Specialty Coffee: Reykjavík Roasters is renowned for its high-quality, freshly roasted beans sourced directly from farmers. The café offers a concise espresso-based menu, daily batch brew, and a selection of single-origin pour-overs using methods like AeroPress and Kalita Wave.
• Vegan-Friendly Options: The menu caters to various dietary preferences, featuring vegan-friendly items such as avocado toast and oat milk for coffee.
• Homemade Pastries: Enjoy a selection of freshly baked goods, including scones, cinnamon rolls, and other treats, perfect for pairing with your coffee.
• Cozy Ambiance: The café's interior boasts a Scandinavian-inspired design with light wood furniture, potted plants, and soft lighting, creating a hygge-like atmosphere that's perfect for relaxing or working.

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7. Brauð & Co – Frakkastígur

Brauð & Co – Frakkastígur is a beloved artisan bakery located at Frakkastígur 16, 101 Reykjavík. Established in 2016, it has become a staple in Reykjavík's culinary scene, renowned for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

What to Expect

• Artisan Baked Goods: Brauð & Co offers a variety of freshly baked items, including sourdough bread, croissants, and their famous cinnamon rolls. The bakery uses organic ingredients, such as Icelandic butter and sea salt, and imports select flours from Denmark and Italy to ensure the highest quality.
• Vegan-Friendly Options: While not exclusively vegan, the bakery provides some vegan-friendly items, including certain breads and pastries. Vegan items are labeled accordingly.
• Open Kitchen Concept: Visitors can observe the baking process through the bakery's open kitchen, offering a transparent and engaging experience.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: The bakery's exterior is adorned with colorful street art, making it a visually striking spot in the city. Inside, the warm and inviting ambiance complements the delightful aromas of freshly baked goods.

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8. Sandholt

Sandholt Bakery is a family-owned artisan bakery and café located at Laugavegur 36, 101 Reykjavík. Established in 1920, it stands as one of Iceland's oldest operating bakeries, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern culinary innovations.

What to Expect

• Artisan Baked Goods: Sandholt offers a diverse selection of freshly baked items, including sourdough breads, pastries, and cakes. Their menu features options like skyr with fruits and granola, chia pudding, toasted sourdough with jam and butter, and a variety of sandwiches such as lamb tinga and mortadella on focaccia.
• Breakfast and Brunch: The café serves a range of breakfast and brunch items, including shakshouka with eggs and sourdough bread, toasted brioche with salmon and smoked cream cheese, and freshly baked waffles with compote and sabayon sauce.
• Beverage Selection: Complement your meal with a variety of hot and cold drinks, such as espresso, cappuccino, Swiss mocha, hot chocolate, and a selection of teas. They also offer handcrafted sodas, craft beers, and a curated list of wines.
• Catering Services: Sandholt provides catering for various events, offering pies, cakes, desserts, and finger foods. Customers are encouraged to contact the bakery directly to customize their catering needs.

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9. Mokka Kaffi

Mokka Kaffi is a cherished institution in Reykjavík, renowned as one of the city's oldest coffeehouses. Established in 1958, it has maintained its original charm and continues to be a beloved spot for both locals and visitors.

What to Expect

• Historic Ambiance: Stepping into Mokka Kaffi is like traveling back in time. The café features warm leather benches, wood-paneled walls, and copper-colored lamps, preserving the cozy atmosphere of the 1950s.
• Pioneering Espresso: Mokka Kaffi was the first café in Iceland to serve espresso, cappuccino, and café latte, setting the standard for coffee culture in the country.
• Artistic Flair: The café doubles as an art gallery, showcasing rotating exhibitions from local artists. This integration of art and coffee creates a unique cultural experience.
• Delicious Offerings: Mokka Kaffi is famed for its waffles served with jam and whipped cream, as well as a selection of sandwiches and cakes.

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10. Kaffi Ó-le

Kaffi Ó-le is a standout specialty coffee shop nestled in the heart of Reykjavík at Hafnarstræti 11, just steps from the old harbor. Though it shares a building with the Radisson Blu 1919 Hotel, it operates independently with its own street entrance, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

What to Expect

• Expertly Crafted Coffee: Kaffi Ó-le collaborates with local roaster Kaffibrugghúsið to serve seasonal single-origin coffees. Their offerings include espresso, batch brew, and pour-over options, all prepared with precision using advanced equipment like the Dalla Corte XT espresso machine and the Tone Touch 02 automated brewer.
• Delicious Accompaniments: Complement your coffee with a selection of fresh pastries, cakes, and sandwiches made from local ingredients.
• Inviting Ambiance: The café features Scandinavian lounge-luxe tones, with seating options including window bars, high bar chairs, and cozy sofas in a back room. It's an ideal spot to relax, work, or catch up with friends

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11. Hygge Coffee & Micro Bakery

Hygge Coffee & Micro Bakery is a cozy neighborhood café located at Seljavegur 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland. Since opening in February 2022, it has been warmly embraced by the local community for its inviting atmosphere and quality offerings. Our personal favourite.‍

What to Expect

• Freshly Baked Goods: Hygge specializes in on-site baked pastries and breads, ensuring freshness and quality in every bite.
• Quality Coffee: The café serves high-quality coffee, including options like iced coffee and cold brew, prepared by skilled baristas.
• Vegan Options: Hygge offers a selection of vegan-friendly items, such as a house-made vegan blueberry bun (bláberja flétta) and chia pudding. Many milk alternatives.
• Inviting Ambiance: Inspired by the Danish concept of "hygge," the café provides a calm and cozy environment, perfect for relaxing or working.

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12. Kaffihús Vesturbæjar

A beloved neighborhood café and bistro located at Melhagi 20–22, 107 Reykjavík, in the heart of the Vesturbær district. Housed in a former pharmacy, the café retains its original charm with preserved wooden shelves and a marble counter, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. ‍‍

What to Expect

• All-Day Dining: Open from morning until late evening, Kaffihús Vesturbæjar offers a diverse menu that caters to various tastes. Guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, including hearty soups, burgers, and vegan-friendly dishes like hummus toast and chia pudding.
• Beverage Selection: The café serves a selection of beverages, featuring quality coffee, local beers, and wines sourced from women-owned vineyards in France.
• Cozy Ambiance: With its relaxed setting, the café is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It's situated across from the Vesturbæjarlaug swimming pool, making it a convenient stop before or after a swim.

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13. BakaBaka

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is a beloved bakery and restaurant nestled in a historic 1834 building at Bankastræti 2, right in the heart of downtown Reykjavík. Founded by the creator of the renowned Brauð & Co., BakaBaka has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its unique blend of daytime charm and evening sophistication.

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By Day: Artisanal Bakery & Café

From early morning, BakaBaka delights patrons with a selection of freshly baked goods, including sourdough breads, cardamom buns, croissants, and cinnamon rolls. Complement your pastry with a rich cup of coffee or a light breakfast featuring options like French toast, shakshuka, or a hearty fruit bowl. The cozy interior, adorned with exposed brick and wooden beams, offers a warm ambiance perfect for a leisurely start to your day.

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By Night: Stone-Baked Pizza & Natural Wines

As evening approaches, BakaBaka transforms into a vibrant Italian eatery, serving up stone-baked pizzas with a variety of toppings, from classic Margherita to inventive combinations like oyster mushrooms with truffle dust. Pair your meal with a selection from their curated list of natural wines or enjoy a glass of limoncello to conclude your dining experience.

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14. Kaktus Espressobar at Fríkirkjuvegur

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A charming café located on the ground floor of the National Gallery of Iceland at Fríkirkjuvegur 7, right by Reykjavík's scenic Tjörnin pond. Opened on Culture Night in August 2024, this inviting spot offers premium Italian coffee, along with a selection of delicious treats, soups, and sandwiches. It's an ideal place to relax during a gallery visit or a leisurely walk around the pond. The café operates daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, aligning with the gallery's opening hours.

The interior exudes a cozy Scandinavian charm, featuring light wood accents, an abundance of natural light, and a variety of potted plants—including, fittingly, cacti. This tranquil setting is perfect for unwinding with a cup of coffee or catching up with friends.

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15. Kaffibrennslan

A cozy and inviting café nestled in the heart of Reykjavík at Laugavegur 21. Housed in a charming timber-framed building, this café offers a warm atmosphere with rustic wooden interiors, soft lighting, and eclectic artwork adorning the walls. The two-story layout provides a variety of seating options, including a cozy loft area with window views of the bustling street below and an outdoor greenhouse seating area perfect for sunny days.

The menu at Kaffibrennslan features a delightful selection of food and beverages. Patrons can enjoy freshly made sandwiches like the spicy tuna or honey chicken, Belgian waffles, croissants, and the highly praised carrot cake. The café also serves a range of coffee drinks, including strong lattes and cappuccinos, as well as teas, beers, wines, and soft drinks. Milk alternatives such as oat milk and almond milk are available.

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Conclusion

Reykjavík is a city filled with exceptional cafés, each offering its own unique charm and flavor. Whether you’re looking for specialty coffee, cozy atmospheres, or delicious pastries, the downtown area has something to satisfy every coffee lover’s cravings. So, grab your reusable cup, take a stroll through the city, and explore these delightful spots to fuel your Reykjavík adventure!

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