Iceland Gluten Free & Celiac Safe Restaurants

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In the last 5 years Iceland has massively improved on catering to allergies, vegan, vegetarian, dietary needs, and diet focused folks.  In fact, it’s my opinion it is getting better every week!  But what about Iceland gluten free options and restaurants?  You might be wondering how we fare on that topic, if you need to keep to a gluten free lifestyle while traveling.  Today, I am happy to share with you specific advice and helpful tips to navigate your way eating through Iceland.  Please come along with me today as I share all the ins and outs about Iceland Gluten Free & Celiac Safe Restaurants!

Being Diagnosed with Celiac Disease in Iceland

Ann here, founder of Iceland Wedding Planner…  Shall we embark on story time with Ann?  At the start of this year, I was unexpectedly diagnosed with Celiac Disease.  First, it begins with my dentist mentioning I might have beginning signs of acid reflux.  So getting diagnosed sooner than later would lessen the damage and cost.  Especially if anything were to happen in the future with my teeth.  Second, under her advice I went to my General Practitioner and got a referral to a gastro doctor.  Which to my surprise means you’re scheduled for an endoscopy as your first appointment.

Third, after the endoscopy the gastroenterologist confirmed that my villi were completely flattened (total villous atrophy) and that visual means he suspects I have Celiac Disease.  But because I carry no symptoms, I am a silent-Celiac.  Therefore, even one speck of gluten does damage to my insides.  Which makes me absolutely paranoid about eating.  Because who the heck wants to end up with stomach cancer or the many other ailments that could happen should I not be on a strict gluten free with no cross contamination diet.  #noone

Fourth, the days following, the biopsy and blood work further confirmed the diagnosis, so “Hello Iceland Gluten Free Lifestyle” overnight!  Likewise, just like anyone sucker punched with that diagnosis, I went down the rabbit hole of grieving all of the American junk food that I would never ever enjoy again for the first few weeks.  Fifth, I hired a nutritionist to help me navigate through what is actually Celiac-safe options at the grocery stores and getting back to the basics of food nourishment.  Sixth, I live in the tiny town of Vik Iceland and I’m very strict about cross contamination so take my advice with a grain of salt if you’re gluten free but not Celiac.

Is Iceland Good for Gluten Free or Celiac People?

When you’re contemplating visiting Iceland you might wonder if there are gluten free and Celiac safe options…  Honestly, it could be better if you’re comparing to more mainstream populated countries like North America, France, Germany, etc.  I’ve travelled since my diagnoses and instant jealousy ensues.  Why?  Because there are huge aisles and options in other countries, even gluten free devoted bakeries and restaurants.

On the other hand, considering Iceland gluten free, there is far less options.  Our tiny island in the North Atlantic, Iceland does not have any 100% gluten free establishments.  But then that just means you need to stick to the basics.  For instance protein, fruits, vegetables, and pre-packaged items.  Overall, just about everywhere can offer an Iceland gluten free foot option (IE, burger without a bun, salad, etc) so if you are sensitive to gluten don’t be fearful.

Unfortunately, just like anywhere, we Celiac folks will have to see if the restaurant or cafe has an understanding of our disease dynamics.  To illustrate, where gluten can be lurking (natural flavors, seasonings, and some folks even think potatoes have gluten!).  Also as we all know they need to willing to go the extra mile to ensure no cross contamination.  For example, asking the staff to thorough clean workspaces, change gloves, and be diligent of not touching any other food items while preparing.

Gluten Free Iceland Applications:

Likely, you might wonder if there are any helpful websites or applications that can aid you on your gluten free Iceland mission.  Additionally, downloading the Kronan phone app and browsing the website helps as they diligently mark their productions with symbols.  For example, dairy free, gluten free, etc when it is.  However, label reading in store is still important to do incase of human error.

Furthermore, I personally log my experiences with restaurants on the Find Me Gluten Free app.  Also, if you’re looking for feedback from locals directly, join the Facebook Group named, “Glútenlaust á Íslandi.”  But do make sure you do a “search” before asking a question in case it’s already been discussed.  Additionally, buying several “Celiac Disease” cards to hand to restaurant servers to review can go a long way as an extra precaution.  Worth the investment in my opinion!

Words for Gluten in Icelandic:

“Ég er með glutenóþol” = I have a gluten intolerance.

Hveti = Wheat

Hafra = Oats

Rúgmjöl = Rye Flour

Bygg = Barley

Iceland Grocery Stores for Gluten Free Food

Folks who have allergies, intolerances, and immunocompromising diseases may feel safer in renting apartments or self-catering options when journeying around Iceland.  I’m with you, frankly!  Bringing along my pre-made food (by me) in my Yeti cooler has become a staple to my routine.  But you might be curious to know where I stock up?

I live in the tiny 600 person Southern town of Vik Iceland.  Which means we have 1 grocery store and grocery stores with more options are 2.5-3 hours away in Reykjavik.  Moreover, my go to’s are as follows:

Iceland Gluten Free Places to Buy Groceries:

  1. Fjarðarkaup– Hands down my favorite store with the best and biggest selection for gluten free in Iceland.  Anytime I am in Reykjavik I stock up!  At the time this Iceland Wedding Planner blog post is written, the gluten free aisle was the last to the left and some additional items are found in the taco aisle, fruits, veggies, and meats too.
  2. Kostur– Our token American store in Iceland offers a nice selection of gluten free and celiac safe options.
  3. Kronan– The majority of their gluten free selection is found near the bread area but some additional ones are spread around the store (IE, Taco aisle and pasta aisle).  Also the pre-packaged meat area has indications on pepperoni and some other meats that they are without gluten, soy, or allergies).  Further, you’ll find a small selection of Schar products (breads, pretzels, cookies, crackers, pizza crust, etc).
  4. Netto– Their selection is found by the health food area and is small but decent.  Worth a look!
  5. Pris– Newest grocery store to Iceland and they are trying to slowly introducing new gluten free options.  Haven’t been but so says the Iceland gluten free group!
  6. Bonus– Super small variety and not worth a stop in my opinion.  Honestly, I’ve been disappointed almost every time.  However, if you have an oven and you look carefully through the frozen section you might be able to find gluten free muffins and bread in there!
  7. Hagkaup– This store is the most expensive grocery store in Iceland and can be hit or miss with gluten free items.
  8. Kjötkompaní– Icelandic Butcher.  Remind them to change their gloves if you are Celiac!
  9. Costco– Is a fabulous spot to grab certified gluten free snacks, meat, veggies, and fruit!
  10. Heilsuhúsið– Our token health food store.
  11. Bring Food from Home!  If you desire specific or must have things or 100% seasonings, etc I encourage you to bring your own!

A few thoughts on grocery shopping in Iceland and needing to be gluten free… To illustrate, if you are traveling around it’s best to stock up in Reykjavik before heading out of the city limits.  Why?  Selection and in stock items are 50/50, especially during summer in Iceland.  I’ve seen my the Kronan in Vik ransacked with ZERO gluten free items (and even meat in some cases) when the high season is upon us.  Therefore, make sure you take your chance to stock up before embarking on your Ring Road journey.

Iceland Gluten Free & Celiac Safe Restaurants

Alright, so here’s the topic you’ve been waiting for!  Dinning out in Iceland gluten free and finding restaurants are Celiac safe.  Frankly, I’m a super strict Celiac when it comes to eating out.  For example, I play the 20 questions game of asking how the food is stored, prepared, shared spaces, the whole gamut.

But as I alluded to above, almost every restaurant in Iceland can typically offer a gluten free modification.  Here is a list of Iceland Gluten Free Restaurants by Region for ease of referencing during your Iceland self-drive itinerary!  NOTE: Iceland hasn’t gotten on the labeling their menu bus yet for gluten free as of the time this blog post was written.

Gluten Free Options in the Following Reykjavik Restaurants:

 

South IcelandRestaurants Serving Gluten Free Options:

 

East Iceland Restaurants Serving Gluten Free Options:

 

North Iceland Restaurants Serving Gluten Free Options:

 

West Iceland Restaurants Serving Gluten Free Options:

Celiac Safe Restaurants in Iceland:

For Celiac safe restaurants in Iceland, it’s hit or miss for me on cross contamination.  When I find safe or unsafe places I log it into Find my Gluten Free app.  Honestly though, I’m scared to death to eat out.  Regardless, there are a few places I’ve grown to trust this last year…

    • Hafnartorg Gallery Food Hall in downtown Reykjavik – The Italian place (La Trattoria) I order the ribeye safely.
    • Mathús Garðabæjar – Outside of Reykjavik.  Hello beef carpaccio and a delicious salad!
    • Silli Kokkur – Outside of Reykjavik with the BEST gluten free burgers I have had in Iceland!
    • Byrja – In Selfoss this is my go to… Best and safest Caesar Salad!
    • Hotel Stracta Bistro in Hella can do a basic pan fried Arctic Char with potatoes in olive oil / salt with no cross.
    • Ice Cave Bistro in Vik-  There is curry and Icelandic Meat Soup that is gluten free.  The curry scares me as it is in a closed buffet (IE worker dishes) so I stick to the meat soup.  They also say their salads are gluten free but I’m not risking the cross contamination.
    • The Berg inside Hotel Vik – Almost everything on their menu is gluten free and they understand no cross contamination.
    • Klaustur Restaurant – Within the town of Kirkjubæjarklaustur.  The chef Einar is very aware of Celiac Disease and will modify the dishes accordingly and do his best to ensure everything is cleaned and no cross contamination happens.
    • Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon Near Höfn – Restaurant inside will prepare your food in a separate space, just ask!
    • Otto Matur & Drykkur – In Höfn, went out of their way to reassure me food was 100% cross contamination free!

::Important::

This list is from my current and personal experience as a diagnosed Celiac living in Iceland.  Folks may have positive experiences outside of this list, but these are the only tried and trusted I’m comfortable standing behind.  Please always do your due diligence in advocating for yourself and asking all the questions that make you feel comfortable dining somewhere.

Iceland Gluten Free Weddings & Elopements

Now if you’re thinking about getting married in Iceland you might wonder if it is possible to have a gluten free or celiac safe adventure…  Having an Iceland gluten-free wedding in Iceland is not only possible but can be an incredible experience!  With Iceland’s growing focus on food quality, sustainability, and dietary needs, couples can rest assured that their gluten-free requirements will be met with delicious and thoughtful options.  Especially if you hire an Iceland Wedding Planner who can lead the way and who understands the importance of dietary accommodations.

Imagine having a total farm-to-table menu, your dream gluten-free wedding in Iceland will be both seamless and unforgettable.  Embrace the beauty of Iceland’s landscapes while savoring a worry-free culinary experience on your adventurous day!  Ready to begin the journey?  Feel free to contact us for more information!

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