The 3 Best Bakeries in Reykjavik You Can’t Miss
If there’s one thing you need to know about Icelanders, it’s that they know how to bake. Reykjavik is home to some incredible bakeries, each offering delicious, high-quality pastries and bread.
Whether you're craving a legendary cinnamon roll, a traditional Icelandic treat, or artisan sourdough, these three bakeries should be at the top of your list when visiting Iceland.
1. Brauð & Co. – Home of the Legendary Cinnamon Rolls
Brauð & Co. is one of Iceland’s most famous bakeries, and for good reason. Known for its legendary cinnamon rolls and exceptional sourdough bread, this bakery is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
The original Brauð & Co. location is in downtown Reykjavik near Hallgrimskirkja (the big church). You can’t miss it – the exterior is covered in colorful graffiti, making it one of the most recognizable buildings in the city. But don’t let the street-art look fool you; inside, you'll find some of the best pastries Reykjavik has to offer.
Their cinnamon rolls are a local favorite, often selling out quickly. They’re soft yet slightly crunchy on the outside, packed with cinnamon-sugar goodness, and topped with just the right amount of sticky glaze. If you want to enjoy one fresh out of the oven, make sure to visit early in the morning! In addition to their cinnamon rolls, Brauð & Co. also offers a variety of freshly baked sourdough loaves, flaky croissants, and seasonal pastries that make it a haven for pastry lovers.
2. BAKA BAKA – Reykjavik’s Rising Star Bakery
Next on our list is BAKA BAKA, a newer bakery that has quickly become a staple in Reykjavik’s food scene. The name literally translates to “Bake Bake,” which perfectly captures what they do best.
What makes BAKA BAKA stand out is its commitment to long fermentation times, resulting in deeper, more complex flavors in all their baked goods. By day, they serve up an impressive selection of pastries, and by night, they transform into a pizza place—a unique twist on the classic bakery model. Their pizza is just as thoughtfully made as their pastries, with handcrafted dough and gourmet toppings that make for an unforgettable dining experience.
Their most famous pastry is Kleina, Iceland’s beloved twisted donut. But if you’re looking for a unique treat, they also make a special Icelandic pancake that isn’t on the regular menu. This secret item is exclusively available on our 10:30 AM Reykjavik Food Walk tour, where we visit BAKA BAKA for a truly authentic experience. (Check out WakeUpReykjavik.com for more details!) Aside from these highlights, BAKA BAKA also offers an impressive selection of buttery croissants, hearty rye bread, and creative seasonal pastries that keep locals coming back for more.
3. Sandholt Bakery – A Century of Icelandic Baking
Rounding out our list is Sandholt Bakery, one of Reykjavik’s most iconic and oldest family-run bakeries. With over 100 years of experience, Sandholt has been passed down through generations, preserving Icelandic baking traditions while embracing innovation.
Sandholt is known for its incredible selection of sourdough bread, pastries, chocolates, and desserts. Every bite showcases their dedication to quality and craftsmanship. The bakery’s long history means they have perfected their techniques, making their sourdough some of the best in Reykjavik.
Like BAKA BAKA, Sandholt also makes twisted donuts, which raises an important question: Which bakery makes the best Kleina? That’s a taste test you’ll have to conduct yourself! But beyond their famous twisted donuts, Sandholt is also home to exquisite chocolates, delicate éclairs, beautifully layered cakes, and a robust coffee selection that makes it a fantastic spot to sit and relax while soaking in the cozy Reykjavik atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
If you're a foodie visiting Reykjavik, these three bakeries should be on your must-visit list. Whether you’re indulging in Brauð & Co.’s famous cinnamon rolls, savoring a Kleina at BAKA BAKA, or enjoying the artisanal flavors of Sandholt, you’re in for a delicious treat. Each of these bakeries has its own unique atmosphere and specialty, ensuring that there’s something for every type of pastry lover.
Beyond just satisfying your sweet cravings, these bakeries also provide a glimpse into Icelandic baking culture. From long-fermented doughs to centuries-old family recipes, each bite tells a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and passion for good food.
So, next time you're in Reykjavik, be sure to stop by these incredible bakeries – and don’t forget to bring your appetite! Whether you’re grabbing a quick breakfast, enjoying an afternoon treat, or looking for the perfect pastry to pair with your coffee, Reykjavik’s bakery scene will not disappoint.