A Day in Reykjavik: Food, Pastries, and Local Flavors – Day 9 of Our Iceland Adventure

On our second-to-last day in Iceland, we decided to slow down and embrace the serene pace of Reykjavik. After days filled with outdoor adventures, our feet were tired, so we opted for a more relaxed day. From indulgent pastries to discovering Icelandic gems in the heart of the city, it was a day of savoring the simple pleasures. A Quiet Tea Break at SANDHOLT We started our day by slipping into SANDHOLT, a cozy artisanal bakery known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and freshly baked delights. The smell of bread and pastries was enough to make anyone feel at home. We found a seat by the window, where we could watch the locals go about their day. With a cup of tea in hand, we shared a pastry — buttery and flaky, filled with sweet jam that melted in our mouths. Every detail at SANDHOLT felt thoughtful. The ambiance was calm, the pastries were perfect, and the moment felt like a small, intimate escape from the busy city streets. We lingered there for a while, savoring the warmth and peace of the space, before moving on with our day. Exploring Reykjavik’s Shopping Mall & Bonus Mart Next, we wandered into a nearby shopping mall. While malls aren’t usually top on our list when traveling, this one had a unique charm. We stumbled upon Bonus Mart, a local store where we picked up capsule coffee to bring home. It might seem like a small souvenir, but it was the perfect reminder of our time in Iceland. Every morning back home, we would recall the calm moments spent in Reykjavik, sipping coffee just like the locals. Resting at Our Airbnb With our shopping done, we returned to our Airbnb to rest and freshen up. The slow rhythm of the day had been a welcome change of pace, allowing us to unwind and recharge. There’s something about the simple act of resting that made us appreciate the little things — from the quiet of our home for the night to the anticipation of the evening ahead. Casual Comfort at Reykjavik Fish and Chips For dinner, we chose Reykjavik Fish and Chips, a casual spot known for serving crispy, golden fish and hand-cut fries. It was comfort food at its best. The fish was fresh and tender, and the fries were perfectly crispy. But what really made the meal stand out was the skyr-based tartar sauce. Made with Icelandic skyr, a creamy dairy product similar to yogurt, the sauce had a tangy, fresh flavor that perfectly complemented the fish. It was a simple yet satisfying dinner that hit all the right notes. A Midnight Snack at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur After dinner, we weren’t quite ready to call it a night. We headed out for a late-night snack at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, Reykjavik’s most famous hot dog stand. Known for its delicious lamb hot dogs, this spot is a must-visit for anyone in the city. The hot dogs were topped with fried onions and sweet mustard, creating the perfect balance of flavors. #iceland