Just moved to a new city? Settling into a new place can be stressful, especially when trying to stick to a budget. But have no fear – Iceland is here! The frozen food experts have everything you need to eat well on a budget. Their freezer aisles are packed with tasty ready meals, perfect for those nights when you just cannot face cooking. With Iceland’s help, you can enjoy delicious dinners without breaking the bank. Their budget-friendly selection means you do not have to compromise on quality or variety. From comforting classics to exciting new flavours from around the world, Iceland has it all. So grab your bags and head to your local store. With Iceland’s affordable eats, you can feel at home in your new city in no time. Enjoy budget meals galore… the move was worth it!
Settling Into Your New City on a Budget? Enjoy Iceland’s Tasty, Affordable Meals
Hearty Soups and Stews
Icelanders love their soups and stews, and for good reason. Nothing warms you up like a steaming bowl of kjötsúpa, a hearty meat soup, or kjötkál, a creamy fish stew. The best part? These staples will not break the bank, with a bowl of soup or stew typically costing around 1500 ISK (USD 12) or less.
Fresh Seafood
As an island nation, seafood plays a big role in Icelandic cuisine. You will find plump shrimp, cod, haddock, and arctic char on the menu. Fish and chips are popular, as are lobster bisques and crab cakes. And with fishing such an important industry, you can get fresh-caught fish at very reasonable prices. A meal of fish and chips or seafood pasta generally costs 2000 to 3000 ISK ($15 to $23).
Hearty Breads and Pastries
Rúgbrauð is a dark, sweet bread that Icelanders love to eat for breakfast or as a snack. You will also find an array of pastries like Kleiner, fried dough twists dusted with sugar, and laufabrauð, delicate fried leaf-shaped flatbreads. Best of all, most bakeries and cafes sell items for under 500 ISK (USD 4) each.
For the Adventurous
If you are feeling bold, try some traditional Icelandic fare like hákarl, fermented shark meat, or svið, singed sheep’s head. More palatable options include hangikjöt, smoked lamb, or lundabaggi, puffin. Adventurous eaters can get a taste of these unique foods at certain restaurants for 1500 to 3000 ISK ($12 to USD 23) per dish. Iceland offers tasty meals for any budget. So grab your coat and appetite and start exploring the local cuisine. With delicious seafood, soups, breads and more, your belly and wallet will leave you happy.
Iceland’s Top 10 Budget-Friendly Meals for Busy People
Fish and Chips
You cannot go wrong with Iceland’s classic fish and chips. Fresh cod or haddock fried in a light batter and served with thick-cut chips. Simple, delicious and budget-friendly.
Pylsur
Iceland’s hot dogs are legendary. Made from a blend of lamb, beef and pork, pylsur hot dogs are usually topped with raw and fried onions, remoulade sauce, ketchup and mustard. Grab one from a stand for an authentic Icelandic experience.
Skyr
Skyr is Iceland’s version of yoghurt. Rich and creamy but low in fat, skyr is high in protein to keep you fueled. Enjoy it plain or topped with honey, jam, and fresh or frozen berries. Skyr parfaits also make a great portable breakfast or snack.
Lamb Soup
Hearty lamb soup is comfort food at its best. Chunks of tender lamb and root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, turnips and rutabagas simmered in a flavorful broth. Perfect for a cold day and budget-friendly.
Crepes
Whether you prefer savoury or sweet crepes, you will find plenty of options in Iceland. Nutella and banana, sugar and lemon or ham and cheese are popular fillings. Crepes make a great inexpensive meal when dining out or grab ingredients to make your own at home.
Flatkaka
Unleavened flatbread, similar to a tortilla, flatkaka is usually topped with butter, and sliced meats like ham or lamb and cheese. Simple but satisfying, flatkaka wraps or open-faced sandwiches are an easy-budget meal.
FAQs on Iceland’s Yummy Magic Budget Meals
Where can I get budget meals in Iceland?
In Iceland, you will find budget-friendly meals at bakeries, food trucks, and casual eateries. Bakeries offer soup, sandwiches, and pastries for under $10. Food trucks are affordable, with fish and chips, hot dogs, and burgers for around $5 to $8. Casual restaurants like Noodle Station and Serrano offer main dishes for under $15.
What are some typical Icelandic budget foods?
Some popular Icelandic budget foods include:
- Fish and chips: Beer-battered fish fillets served with french fries. Around $8.
- Pylsur: Icelandic hot dogs made from lamb and pork. Usually under $5.
- Skyr: Thick Icelandic yoghurt. Around $3 for a small cup.
- Sandwiches: Things like egg salad, cheese, or pulled pork sandwiches on rye or sourdough bread. Around $6 to $8.
- Soup: Hearty lamb or seafood soups, often with root vegetables. A bowl is usually $6 to $10.
Can I eat whale or puffin on a budget?
Whale (hval) and puffin (lundi) are traditional Icelandic foods, but they are not cheap. Whale steak costs around $30 to $50, and puffin around $20 to $30 per serving. These meats are usually only eaten on special occasions due to their high cost and strong, acquired tastes. Stick with more budget-friendly fish and lamb options.
Any tips for saving money on food in Iceland?
Here are some tips for affordable eating in Iceland:
• Eat at bakeries, food trucks and casual eateries. They offer lower prices than restaurants.
• Buy groceries at Bonus or Kroger and cook some meals yourself. Things like yoghurt, oatmeal, sandwiches and soup are easy to make on your own.
• Take advantage of lunch specials or early bird menus at restaurants. They often have lower prices than the standard dinner menu.
• Drink tap water instead of bottled water. Icelandic tap water is clean and delicious.
• Avoid whale, puffin or other gourmet meats which are pricey. Stick to more budget-friendly fish and lamb.
• Buy an Iceland food card like the Reykjavik City Card which offers discounts at some eateries.
Conclusion
Iceland should be your first stop for budget-friendly meals after moving to a new city. Their diverse range of frozen ready meals, meal deals and budget ranges mean you can eat well without breaking the bank. And you cannot beat the convenience of having tasty, nutritious food ready in minutes. Iceland takes the stress out of settling into a new home. Next time you are too tired to cook, pop down to your local store. Grab some Iceland goodies, chuck them in the oven or microwave, and enjoy. You will be glad you discovered Iceland’s selection of delicious budget meals.
