Quick answer
For the most famous and beloved Icelandic hot dog experience, Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur is the undisputed champion.
- Best overall
- Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur
- Best budget
- Pylsuvagninn við Austurstræti
- Best experience
- Pylsuhúsið
- Last verified
- 2026-03
How we picked these
Our selection of Reykjavik's top hot dog stands is based on extensive research, local recommendations, and current popularity. We focused on authentic Icelandic hot dog experiences, considering factors like taste, unique toppings, value, atmosphere, and historical significance to ensure a comprehensive guide for every palate and preference.
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur
The legendary 'Best Hot Dogs in Town' stand, Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur has been serving up its famous frankfurters since 1937. Loved by locals and celebrities alike (Bill Clinton famously stopped here), it's a must-visit for the classic Icelandic hot dog 'ein með öllu' (with everything). Expect a queue, but it moves fast.
🍽️ What to order
Ein með öllu (one with everything): A lamb-and-pork hot dog with raw onions, crispy fried onions, ketchup, sweet mustard, and remoulade.
💡 Insider tip
Don't be shy about ordering 'ein með öllu' – it's the traditional and most delicious way to experience it. Ask for 'eina með sinnepi' if you only want mustard.
"Honestly, Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur lives up to the hype. That 'ein með öllu' hits different, especially after a long night out. Totally worth the queue every single time."— r/travel user
Pylsuhúsið (The Hot Dog House)
Pylsuhúsið offers a more contemporary and varied hot dog experience compared to the classic street carts. Here you can find unique toppings and combinations beyond the traditional 'everything', as well as seating indoors. It's a great option if you want to customize your hot dog or enjoy a meal in a warmer setting.
🍽️ What to order
The 'Crispy Dream' with extra fried onions or try one of their monthly special hot dogs. Don't forget the fries!
💡 Insider tip
This spot is perfect if you're with a group and want to explore different hot dog styles or need a break from standing outside. They also have good vegetarian hot dog options.
"Pylsuhúsið is my go-to when I want a bit more than just the classic. Their crispy onions are next level, and the seating is a huge plus compared to standing in the cold."— r/food user
Pylsuvagninn við Austurstræti
Often considered a friendly rival to Bæjarins Beztu, this traditional hot dog wagon is another beloved spot in the heart of downtown. It offers the same authentic Icelandic hot dog experience with all the classic toppings, perfect for a quick, delicious, and affordable bite while exploring the city.
🍽️ What to order
A classic hot dog 'með öllu' (with everything) and a Kókómjólk (chocolate milk) for a true Icelandic combo.
💡 Insider tip
This wagon is strategically located near popular shopping streets and bars, making it an ideal late-night snack stop.
"If the line at Bæjarins Beztu is too long, Pylsuvagninn við Austurstræti is a solid alternative. Just as good, sometimes even better depending on who's working!"— r/Iceland user
Nonnabiti
While primarily known for its subs and sandwiches, Nonnabiti is a local institution that also serves up excellent Icelandic hot dogs, especially popular with the late-night crowd. It offers a more casual, diner-like atmosphere with indoor seating, making it a comfortable spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
🍽️ What to order
A hot dog 'með öllu' alongside one of their famous submarine sandwiches, if you're extra hungry.
💡 Insider tip
Nonnabiti is one of the best places for a hot dog after the bars close, as it stays open late into the night.
"Nonnabiti is an underrated gem for a late-night hot dog. Everyone goes to BBB, but Nonnabiti hits different when you've been out."— r/travel user
Hlöllabátar
Another iconic Icelandic fast-food joint, Hlöllabátar is famous for its loaded subs, but their hot dogs are equally beloved by locals. Similar to Nonnabiti, it's a go-to spot for quick, hearty meals, especially popular for a post-bar snack. It offers a no-frills, authentic Icelandic fast-food experience.
🍽️ What to order
A hot dog with cheese and a generous amount of their special sauce, usually 'kokteilsósa'.
💡 Insider tip
Hlöllabátar has several locations around the city, so you're never too far from a tasty hot dog fix.
"Hlöllabátar's hot dogs are legit. Don't just go for the subs, their pylsur with that cocktail sauce is pure comfort food after a long day."— r/Iceland user
Icelandic Street Food
More than just a hot dog stand, Icelandic Street Food is a cozy eatery offering a range of traditional Icelandic quick bites, including excellent hot dogs. They pride themselves on authentic recipes and a welcoming atmosphere, often with complimentary refills of lamb soup or dessert. It's a great spot for tourists to try several local foods.
🍽️ What to order
A hot dog 'með öllu' along with a cup of their famous Lamb Soup, or a traditional Icelandic pancake for dessert.
💡 Insider tip
This place is great if you want to try multiple Icelandic specialties in one sitting, and they are very generous with their portions and refills.
"We stopped at Icelandic Street Food for a hot dog and ended up getting the lamb soup too. Everything was so good, and the staff were super friendly. Definitely tourist-friendly but still authentic."— r/travel user
Víkinga Pylsur (Viking Hot Dogs)
Víkinga Pylsur is a popular brand of hot dogs often found at kiosks and gas stations across Iceland. This particular stand offers a reliable and tasty hot dog experience, popular with locals on the go. It's a no-frills spot focused on delivering a consistently good, classic Icelandic hot dog with your choice of toppings.
🍽️ What to order
A hot dog 'með öllu' and a 'kaffi' (coffee) for a true Icelandic road-trip feel, even in the city.
💡 Insider tip
Don't underestimate gas station hot dogs in Iceland – they are a local staple and often surprisingly delicious, especially after a long drive.
"Stopped at a Víkinga Pylsur kiosk on the way back from the Golden Circle. Their hot dogs are surprisingly good for a gas station, a true hidden gem."— r/Iceland user
Olís Express Lækjartorg
While primarily a convenience store, the Olís Express at Lækjartorg is a popular spot for locals to grab a quick and satisfying hot dog. Icelandic gas station hot dogs are a cultural phenomenon, and Olís offers a clean, efficient, and consistently good version of the classic 'pylsa'.
🍽️ What to order
A hot dog 'pylsa með öllu' and a cold soda. Try adding some crunchy fried onions for extra texture.
💡 Insider tip
This location is central and convenient, perfect for a quick bite before or after exploring downtown attractions, especially if you're trying to save a bit of money.
"Seriously, don't sleep on the Olís hot dogs. They're a different vibe than BBB, but just as good in their own way. My go-to for a quick, cheap lunch."— r/food user
N1 Hringbraut
N1 is one of Iceland's largest gas station chains, and their hot dogs are a national institution. The Hringbraut location, easily accessible from downtown, offers the classic Icelandic hot dog experience: a quick, hot, and satisfying meal. It's a true taste of local everyday life.
🍽️ What to order
A hot dog with all the classic Icelandic condiments, perhaps with a side of French fries.
💡 Insider tip
This is a great stop if you're renting a car and exploring beyond the city center, as N1 stations are ubiquitous across Iceland.
"My first hot dog in Iceland was at an N1, and it set the bar high! So simple, but those onions and sauces are magic. Gotta grab one every trip."— r/travel user
Kaffivagninn
Reykjavik's oldest operating restaurant, Kaffivagninn is a historic diner located by the old harbor, primarily known for its breakfast and fresh fish. However, they also serve a fantastic, traditional Icelandic hot dog. It offers a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere with stunning harbor views, a unique setting for enjoying a pylsa.
🍽️ What to order
A hot dog with a side of their famous fish and chips, or for breakfast, alongside a cup of coffee.
💡 Insider tip
Visit for lunch to enjoy your hot dog with a view of the fishing boats, or combine it with a visit to the nearby Maritime Museum.
"Kaffivagninn for hot dogs? Sounds weird, but their pylsur is actually really good, and you get to sit down by the harbor. It's a pleasant change from a street cart."— r/Iceland user
Pylsumeistarinn (The Hot Dog Master)
Located within the Kringlan shopping mall, Pylsumeistarinn offers a convenient and family-friendly spot to grab a hot dog. While it lacks the street-side charm of the classic wagons, it makes up for it with efficiency and a variety of hot dog and topping options, perfect for a quick refuel during a shopping trip.
🍽️ What to order
A standard hot dog 'með öllu', or try their 'Jumbo' hot dog if you're really hungry. Pair it with a fizzy drink.
💡 Insider tip
A great option for families or if you're visiting Kringlan and want a quick, reliable Icelandic hot dog without going downtown.
"We hit up Pylsumeistarinn at Kringlan after some shopping. It's nothing fancy, but the hot dogs are solid, and it's super convenient when you're already there."— r/travel user
Pylsuvagninn Laugardalur
Nestled in the recreational area of Laugardalur, this hot dog wagon is a favorite among families visiting the nearby swimming pool (Laugardalslaug) or botanical gardens. It offers a relaxed, outdoor setting to enjoy a classic Icelandic hot dog, providing a taste of local life away from the busy city center.
🍽️ What to order
A hot dog 'með öllu' after a swim at Laugardalslaug, followed by an ice cream from a nearby kiosk.
💡 Insider tip
Combine your hot dog visit with a trip to the Laugardalslaug geothermal swimming pool, a fantastic local experience.
"The hot dog stand in Laugardalur after a swim is peak Icelandic summer. Nothing beats a warm pylsa when you're a bit chilly from the pool."— r/Iceland user
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Icelandic hot dogs unique?
Icelandic hot dogs (pylsur) are primarily made from a blend of lamb, pork, and beef, giving them a distinct flavor and a satisfying 'snap'. They are traditionally served in a natural casing with a combination of raw onions, crispy fried onions, ketchup, a sweet brown mustard (often made with rye flour), and a creamy remoulade (a mayonnaise-based sauce).
How do I order a hot dog 'with everything' in Icelandic?
To order a hot dog 'with everything,' simply say 'Ein með öllu' (pronounced 'ayn meth uth-lu'). This will get you the classic combination of all five traditional toppings: raw onions, crispy fried onions, ketchup, sweet mustard, and remoulade. It's the most popular and recommended way to try an Icelandic hot dog.
Are Icelandic hot dogs expensive?
Compared to other food items in Iceland, hot dogs are relatively affordable, making them a popular budget-friendly meal. A single hot dog typically costs between ISK 650-900 ($5-7), with combos including a drink or fries ranging from ISK 1,000-1,800 ($7-13). This makes them an excellent value for a quick and satisfying meal.
Can I find vegetarian or vegan hot dogs in Reykjavik?
Yes, many hot dog stands and fast-food eateries in Reykjavik now offer vegetarian or vegan hot dog options to cater to diverse dietary preferences. Places like Pylsuhúsið and some larger gas station chains often have plant-based alternatives, so it's always worth asking 'eruð þið með grænmetispylsu?' (Do you have a vegetarian hot dog?).
What are the best times to visit hot dog stands to avoid crowds?
To avoid the longest queues, particularly at popular spots like Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, try to visit during off-peak hours. Weekday mornings (before 12 PM) or mid-afternoons (between 2 PM and 5 PM) are generally less busy. Weekends and late evenings (especially after the bars close) tend to be the busiest.
Is it rude to only order one hot dog?
Absolutely not! It is perfectly normal to order just one hot dog. Many locals and tourists alike enjoy a single hot dog as a snack or light meal. The vendors are used to all kinds of orders, so don't feel pressured to buy more than you want.
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