Best Pizza Places in Akureyri: Where to Go for a Proper Slice

Akureyri is a small town, but the pizza scene punches well above its weight. If you are hunting for the best pizza places in Akureyri, you will find a mix of old-school pizzerias, modern bistros, and a few unexpected spots that serve slices you will remember long after you leave. I have eaten my way through every one of these places over the years, some of them dozens of times, and I can tell you exactly where to go, what to order, and when to show up.

1. Hressingarskálinn: The Heart of Akureyri Pizza Culture

Hressingarskálinn sits right on Hafnarstræti, the main pedestrian street in the center of town, and it has been a fixture of Akureyri's food scene for decades. It is technically a cafeteria-style restaurant, but locals know it as one of the top pizza restaurants Akureyri has to offer, especially for a quick, affordable lunch. The pizza here is not fancy, but it is reliable, and the portions are generous for the price. I stopped in last Tuesday around noon and the place was packed with construction workers, students, and a few tourists who had clearly been told by someone local to come here.

The best time to visit is between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM on a weekday, before the lunch rush peaks. Order the pepperoni pizza with a side of their house salad, and you will pay around 2,500 to 3,000 ISK for a full meal. Most tourists walk right past Hressingarskálinn because it looks like a canteen from the outside, but that is exactly why the locals love it. The interior has that no-nonsense Icelandic practicality, functional and warm, with large windows that look out onto the pedestrian street.

Local Insider Tip: "Ask for extra garlic sauce on the side. They keep it behind the counter and don't list it on the menu, but it transforms the pizza. Also, the soup of the day is almost always better than you expect, so grab a bowl if they have one."

One thing worth knowing is that Hressingarskálinn has been part of Akureyri's social fabric since the 1970s. It started as a cafeteria for workers and has evolved into a casual dining spot that serves as a cross-section of the town. You will see everyone from fishermen to university professors eating here. The pizza is not going to win any awards, but it is honest food at honest prices, and in a town where a basic pizza elsewhere can cost 3,500 ISK or more, that matters.

2. Strikið: Pizza with a View Over the Fjord

Strikið is perched on the hill above the harbor, on Eyrarlandsvegur, and it offers one of the best views in Akureyri from its dining room. The restaurant serves a broad menu of Icelandic and international dishes, but the pizza section is where I always end up. The crust is thin and slightly charred, closer to a Neapolitan style than what you get at most places in town. I went there on a Friday evening last month and watched the sun set over Eyjafjörður while eating a pizza topped with smoked trout and capers, a combination that sounds unusual but works beautifully.

The best time to go is early evening, around 6:00 PM, especially in summer when the light lasts forever. A pizza here runs about 3,200 to 3,800 ISK, which is mid-range for Akureyri. The restaurant can get busy on weekend nights, so booking ahead is wise. The interior is modern and clean-lined, with floor-to-ceiling windows that make the fjord feel like part of the dining experience.

Local Insider Tip: "Sit at the window table on the left side of the room if you can. It gives you the direct view of the harbor mouth and the mountains across the fjord. Also, the kitchen is more generous with toppings during the early dinner service before 7 PM, when the head chef is still on the line."

Strikið has been part of Akureyri's restaurant scene since the early 2000s and has built a reputation as a place where locals go for a slightly nicer night out without the Reykjavik-level prices. The pizza program was added a few years after opening and has become one of the most popular sections of the menu. It connects to the broader character of Akureyri as a town that takes its food seriously despite its small size, and Strikið reflects that ambition.

3. Greifinn: The Family-Run Spot on the Main Road

Greifinn is located on Breiðgata, just off the main road that runs through the center of Akureyri. It is a family-run restaurant that has been serving the community for years, and the pizza menu is extensive, with over 20 options ranging from classic margherita to more adventurous combinations. I have been coming here since I was a kid, and the quality has stayed remarkably consistent. Last week I tried the "Hawaiian" with a slightly updated recipe that now includes a drizzle of local honey, a small touch that makes a real difference.

The best time to visit is mid-afternoon, around 3:00 to 4:00 PM, when the restaurant is quiet and you can take your time. Pizzas range from about 2,800 to 3,500 ISK depending on size and toppings. The atmosphere is warm and unpretentious, with wooden tables and a small bar area. Families with children are a common sight, and the staff are patient and friendly in a way that feels genuinely Icelandic, helpful without being overbearing.

Local Insider Tip: "Order the garlic bread as a starter even if you think you don't need it. It comes with a house-made dipping sauce that is basically a closely guarded family recipe. Also, if you are here on a Wednesday, they sometimes run a two-for-one pizza deal after 8 PM that is not advertised anywhere online."

Greifinn represents the kind of neighborhood restaurant that holds a small town together. It is not trying to be trendy or Instagram-worthy. It is trying to feed people well at a fair price, and it has been doing that for a long time. In the context of this Akureyri pizza guide, Greifinn is the reliable workhorse, the place you go when you know exactly what you want and do not want any surprises.

4. Naustið: Harbor-Side Pizza with Character

Naustið sits down by the harbor on Skipagata, in a building that has a long history connected to Akureyri's fishing industry. The restaurant serves a mix of seafood and international dishes, but the pizza menu is surprisingly solid and often overlooked by visitors who come here for the fish. I stopped in on a rainy Saturday afternoon last month and had a four-cheese pizza that was rich and satisfying, exactly what you want when the weather outside is doing its worst.

The best time to go is late afternoon or early evening, around 5:00 PM, when the harbor light is soft and the day-trippers have mostly left. Pizzas are priced around 3,000 to 3,600 ISK. The interior has a nautical feel without being kitschy, with old photographs of Akureyri's fishing fleet on the walls. The outdoor terrace is lovely in good weather, though it closes early if the wind picks up, which it often does in this part of town.

Local Insider Tip: "Ask to see the daily specials board even if you are just ordering pizza. Sometimes they do a pizza of the day with seasonal toppings like Arctic char or wild mushrooms that is not on the regular menu. Also, the back corner table near the window is the warmest spot in the restaurant during winter, away from the draft that comes in when the front door opens."

Naustið connects directly to Akureyri's identity as a fishing town. The building itself has been part of the harbor landscape for generations, and eating here gives you a sense of the town's working history. The pizza might not be the main draw, but it is a worthy option, especially if you are already down by the water and want a proper meal without walking back up the hill to the center.

5. Kaffi Ilmur: The Cozy Café That Makes Great Pizza

Kaffi Ilmur is a small café on Hafnarstræti, tucked into the same pedestrian zone as Hressingarskálinn but with a completely different vibe. It is a cozy, intimate space that feels like someone's living room, and the pizza menu is small but well-executed. I went there on a Sunday morning last week, technically for coffee, but ended up staying for a margherita pizza that was one of the best I have had in Akureyri. The crust had a slight sourdough tang, and the tomato sauce was clearly made from scratch.

The best time to visit is late morning or early afternoon, between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the café is calm and you can grab a seat by the window. Pizzas are around 2,500 to 3,000 ISK, making this one of the more affordable options on this list. The space is small, maybe a dozen tables, so it fills up quickly during peak hours. The coffee is also excellent, and the pastries are baked in-house daily.

Local Insider Tip: "If you are here in winter, sit near the back wall where the heating vent is. The front half of the café gets cold every time the door opens. Also, the owner sometimes makes a special pizza with Icelandic lamb and rhubarb sauce that she only offers to regulars, but if you ask nicely and it is a slow day, she might make one for you."

Kaffi Ilmur represents the quieter side of Akureyri's food culture, the small independent spots that survive on word of mouth and loyal regulars. It is the kind of place where the owner knows your name after two visits, and that personal touch is something you cannot replicate at a larger restaurant. For anyone wondering where to eat pizza Akureyri style in a relaxed, unhurried setting, this is a strong choice.

6. Akureyri Fish Restaurant (Fiskurinn): Not Just Fish, Surprisingly Good Pizza

The Akureyri Fish Restaurant, known locally as Fiskurinn, is on Strandgata near the harbor and is primarily known for its seafood. However, the pizza menu has grown over the years and now includes several well-crafted options that use local ingredients in creative ways. I visited on a Thursday evening and ordered a pizza topped with smoked Arctic char, red onion, and dill cream, which was outstanding. The fish was fresh, the cream was tangy, and the thin crust held everything together without getting soggy.

The best time to go is dinner service, starting around 5:30 PM. Pizzas here are on the higher end, around 3,500 to 4,200 ISK, reflecting the quality of the ingredients. The restaurant has a polished but not stuffy atmosphere, with white tablecloths and a well-curated wine list. It is popular with both locals celebrating special occasions and tourists looking for a nicer meal.

Local Insider Tip: "Tell your server if you prefer a crispier crust. The kitchen defaults to a slightly softer bake, but they will put it back in the oven for an extra few minutes if you ask. Also, the dessert menu changes seasonally, and the skyr-based desserts are worth saving room for."

Fiskurinn connects to Akureyri's growing reputation as a food destination in northern Iceland. The restaurant has been part of the town's culinary evolution, pushing for higher-quality ingredients and more creative menus. The pizza program is a natural extension of that philosophy, using the same local sourcing and attention to detail that makes the seafood dishes shine.

7. Pizzan: The No-Frills Takeaway on the Edge of Town

Pizzan is located on the eastern edge of Akureyri, near the industrial area off Þingvallastræti. It is a takeaway-focused pizzeria with minimal seating, and it is where a lot of locals call in orders on Friday nights. I picked up a large pepperoni and mushroom last Friday and ate it in my car in the parking lot, which is basically the intended experience. The pizza was hot, the cheese was stretchy, and the sauce had a nice kick of oregano.

The best time to go is Friday or Saturday evening after 7:00 PM, but be prepared for a wait because this is peak order time. Pizzas range from about 2,200 to 3,200 ISK, making Pizzan one of the most budget-friendly options in town. There is no real atmosphere to speak of, just a counter and a few stools, but that is not why you come here. You come here because the pizza is good and the price is right.

Local Insider Tip: "Call your order in at least 30 minutes before you plan to pick it up, especially on weekends. The phone lines get jammed after 7 PM. Also, ask for the chili oil packets, they are free and come in small plastic containers that are perfect for drizzling."

Pizzan is the kind of place that does not show up in tourist guides, but it is deeply embedded in the weekly rhythm of Akureyri life. It is where families order from on movie night, where students go after a late study session, and where workers grab a quick meal before heading home. In the context of the best pizza places in Akureyri, Pizzan is the people's champion, unpretentious and dependable.

8. Hótel Kea's Restaurant: Hotel Dining That Takes Pizza Seriously

Hótel Kea is one of the larger hotels in Akureyri, located right in the center of town on Hafnarstræti, and its restaurant serves a surprisingly competent pizza menu alongside its broader Icelandic and international offerings. I had dinner there on a Wednesday night and was impressed by the "Kea Special," a pizza loaded with Icelandic lamb, caramelized onions, and a blue cheese sauce that was rich without being overwhelming. The crust had a nice chew, and the toppings were evenly distributed, which sounds basic but is not always the case.

The best time to visit is during the early dinner window, between 5:00 and 6:30 PM, before the hotel guests fill the dining room. Pizzas are priced around 3,000 to 3,800 ISK. The restaurant has a formal but comfortable feel, with high ceilings and large windows overlooking the pedestrian street. Service is professional and efficient, as you would expect from a hotel of this caliber.

Local Insider Tip: "If you are not staying at the hotel, sit in the section closest to the bar rather than the main dining room. It is quieter, the lighting is better, and the same kitchen prepares the food. Also, the bread basket they bring before your meal is excellent, do not fill up on it, but do try the rye bread with butter."

Hótel Kea has been a landmark in Akureyri for decades, hosting conferences, weddings, and visiting dignitaries. The restaurant's pizza menu reflects the hotel's effort to cater to a wide range of guests, from business travelers to families on vacation. It may not have the charm of a standalone pizzeria, but the quality is consistent, and the convenience of its central location makes it a practical choice for visitors staying nearby.

When to Go and What to Know About Eating Pizza in Akureyri

Akureyri is a small town with a population of around 19,000, so the dining scene operates on a different scale than Reykjavik. Most pizza places open for lunch around 11:30 AM and serve until 9:00 or 10:00 PM, though hours can be shorter in winter. Summer, from June through August, is the busiest season, and popular spots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. If you are visiting during the off-season, some places reduce their hours or close certain days of the week, so it is worth checking ahead.

Prices for pizza in Akureyri generally range from 2,200 ISK for a basic takeaway to over 4,000 ISK for a specialty pizza at a sit-down restaurant. For context, a mid-range meal for one person, including a drink, will typically cost between 3,500 and 5,500 ISK. Tipping is not expected in Iceland, as service charges are included, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.

Most places accept credit and debit cards, including contactless payment, so you do not need to carry much cash. If you are driving, parking in the center of Akureyri is generally free but can be limited during business hours. The town is small enough that most pizza places are within walking distance of each other if you are staying in the center.

One thing that surprises many visitors is how late some places serve food. Unlike in some small European towns where kitchens close early, several Akureyri restaurants serve pizza until 9:30 or 10:00 PM, even on weeknights. This is partly a reflection of Icelandic dining culture, where dinner often starts later than in other countries.

Frequently Asked Questions

How easy is it to find pure vegetarian, vegan, or plant-based dining options in Akureyri?

Most pizza places in Akureyri offer at least one vegetarian option, typically a margherita or a vegetable-loaded pizza. Vegan options are less common but growing, with a few restaurants now offering vegan cheese as a substitute. Dedicated vegan or plant-based restaurants are limited in Akureyri due to the town's size, but several cafés and restaurants have added plant-based items to their menus in recent years. It is always worth calling ahead to confirm availability, especially during the off-season when menus may be reduced.

Is Akureyri expensive to visit? Give a realistic daily budget breakdown for mid-tier travelers?

A mid-tier traveler should budget approximately 25,000 to 35,000 ISK per day for food, accommodation, and local transport. A sit-down pizza meal costs 3,000 to 4,500 ISK, a coffee and pastry runs 1,000 to 1,500 ISK, and a beer at a bar is around 1,200 to 1,800 ISK. Budget hotels and guesthouses start at about 15,000 ISK per night, while mid-range hotels run 20,000 to 30,000 ISK. Rental cars, if needed, start around 8,000 ISK per day for a compact model in the off-season.

What is the one must-try local specialty food or drink that Akureyri is famous for?

Akureyri and the surrounding region are known for their lamb, particularly the free-range Icelandic lamb that grazes in the highlands during summer. Several restaurants in town serve lamb dishes, and some pizzerias have started incorporating smoked or cured lamb into their pizza toppings. Another local specialty is skyr, the thick Icelandic dairy product similar to yogurt, which appears in desserts and sauces across town. For drinks, the local craft beer scene has grown, with several breweries in the north producing seasonal ales worth trying.

Are there any specific dress codes or cultural etiquettes to keep in mind when visiting local spots in Akureyri?

There are no strict dress codes at any of the pizza restaurants or casual dining spots in Akureyri. Icelandic dining culture is generally informal, and smart casual attire is sufficient even at nicer restaurants. Shoes should be clean, especially in winter when streets can be wet or muddy. It is customary to greet staff when entering a restaurant and to say "takk fyrir" (thank you) when leaving. Queuing is respected, and cutting in line is considered rude. Smoking is banned indoors, and most outdoor seating areas are also smoke-free.

Is the tap water in Akureyri safe to drink, or should travelers strictly rely on filtered water options?

The tap water in Akureyri is perfectly safe to drink and is sourced from natural springs and glacial runoff. It is some of the cleanest water in the world and requires no additional filtration. Restaurants and cafés serve tap water free of charge, and it is common for locals to refill bottles from the tap. There is no need to buy bottled water for health reasons, though some people prefer it for taste. The water is cold, fresh, and available everywhere in town.