Discover the culinary treasures of South Iceland
Iceland is known for its breathtaking landscapes, from glaciers and waterfalls to black sand beaches and volcanoes. But did you know Iceland is also home to a thriving food scene? In South Iceland, plenty of culinary treasures are waiting to be discovered. In this blog, we'll explore some of the best foodie destinations in South Iceland, from the Golden Circle area to Katla Geopark and Vestmannaeyjar to the Vatnajökull region.
Culinary Treasures of the Golden Circle Area
The Golden Circle area is one of Iceland's most popular tourist destinations, and for a good reason. This area is home to some of Iceland's most iconic natural wonders, including the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Þingvellir National Park. But it's also a great place to explore Iceland's food scene. One of the culinary highlights of the Golden Circle area is the locally produced rye bread, which is baked using geothermal heat. The bread has a unique texture and flavor, with a hint of sweetness, and is often served with butter and smoked trout. Many restaurants and cafes in the area offer traditional Icelandic rye bread on their menus, including the charming Friðheimar Tomato Farm restaurant.
Speaking of tomatoes, Friðheimar Tomato Farm is also a great place to try some of the best tomato soup in the region. The farm grows its tomatoes using geothermal energy, and the soup is made with fresh ingredients and served with homemade bread.
Many restaurants are known for their farm-to-table approach, using locally sourced ingredients to create delicious and innovative dishes. For meat lovers, the Golden Circle area is also known for its delicious beef steaks, which are raised on the grassy fields surrounding the area and are known for their tenderness and rich flavor. One restaurant serving mouthwatering beef dishes is Efstidalur II, located on a family-run farm that produces its dairy products and meat. Although the region is renowned for its lamb, the beef steaks from this area are just as succulent and flavorful. So if you're a steak fan, try some of the locally sourced beef dishes while visiting the Golden Circle area.
Culinary Treasures of Katla Geopark and Vestmannaeyjar
Katla Geopark and the Vestmannaeyjar islands are located along the southern coast of Iceland and offer stunning views of glaciers, volcanoes, and the ocean. But they are also home to some delicious culinary treasures.
The chef at Hotel Klaustur develops a fresh seasonal menu that offers a wide range of regional delicacies. He takes satisfaction in obtaining the majority of the materials from regional suppliers, such as the famed Arctic char and Icelandic Skyr. The char is widely considered one of the best chars available because it is raised in the pristine water that comes right from beneath the Skaftáreldarhraun lava field. Together with the arctic char, the area is renowned for its premium dairy goods. To make a variety of delectable foods, including homemade ice cream and the well-known Skyr (a type of Icelandic yogurt), several farms in the area produce their own milk, cream, and cheese.
For those who enjoy a good cup of coffee, the Katla Geopark region is also home to some excellent cafes and coffee shops. One popular destination is the Gamla fjósið café, which is housed in a beautifully restored barn and serves a range of homemade cakes, pastries, and some of the best coffee in the area.
For a unique culinary experience, head to the Vestmannaeyjar islands and try the restaurant Slippurinn. The highly ambitious kitchen, run by chef Gísli Matt, serves the freshest catch from the sea around the island and has outstanding meat dishes.
Culinary Treasures of the Vatnajökull Region
The Vatnajökull region is home to Europe's largest glacier and some of Iceland's most spectacular natural beauty. But it's also a great place to explore Iceland's food scene. One of the best places to experience the food of the Vatnajökull region is in the town of Höfn. This small fishing town is located on the southeastern coast of Iceland and is home to some of the freshest seafood you'll find anywhere in the country. One of the most popular seafood dishes in the area is langoustine, a type of lobster that is smaller and sweeter than its more well-known cousin. Langoustine is caught fresh from the surrounding waters and used in various dishes, including soups, salads, and pasta dishes.
In conclusion, South Iceland is not only a place of natural beauty but also a food lover's paradise, with plenty of culinary treasures waiting to be discovered, from fresh seafood and traditional Icelandic pastries to unique craft beers and guided tours that combine food and nature. So next time you're in South Iceland, be sure to explore the local food scene and discover some of the region's best culinary treasures.