What is Cafe Babalu known for?

The cosy, eclectic atmosphere, excellent crepes (both sweet and savoury), homemade cakes, and good coffee. It is one of the most charming and photogenic cafes in Reykjavik.

How much does a meal cost?

Crepes ISK 1,800-2,500, coffee ISK 600-800, cake ISK 1,000-1,500 (approximately €4-17). Very affordable.

Do I need a reservation?

No. Walk in and find a table. The second floor is the cosiest.

Where is Cafe Babalu?

At Skolavordustigur 22a, on the street that leads up to Hallgrimskirkja. A natural stop on the walk up or down the hill.

What makes Cafe Babalu special?

The atmosphere. The cafe is spread across two floors of a colourful old building, filled with mismatched furniture, artwork, and the kind of bohemian character that cannot be replicated.

Is Cafe Babalu good for working or reading?

Yes. The relaxed atmosphere and good wifi make it a popular spot for working or reading, especially on the quieter second floor.

Coffee & CafeCasual Dining

Cafe Babalu

Name: Cafe Babalu
Address: Skolavordustigur 22a, 101 Reykjavik, IS
Telephone: +354 552 2278
Price range: $
Rating: 4.4

4.4(1876 reviews)$$$$Budget-friendlyReykjavik, Iceland

A colourful, bohemian cafe on the walk up to Hallgrimskirkja — crepes, coffee, and cake in one of the cosiest spots in Reykjavik.

Cafe Babalu is the kind of place that makes you smile the moment you walk in. Occupying a colourful old building on Skolavordustigur — the street that climbs from the city centre to Hallgrimskirkja — it is one of Reykjavik's most beloved cafes, drawing visitors with its bohemian charm, excellent crepes, and the kind of cosy atmosphere that makes you want to stay for hours.

The Food and Drink

The crepes are the main draw — both sweet (Nutella, banana, berries) and savoury (ham and cheese, spinach and feta). They are well-made, generously filled, and arrive quickly. The homemade cakes are displayed at the counter and are worth saving room for. The coffee is good and the hot chocolate is excellent on a cold day.

The Atmosphere

This is Babalu's secret weapon. The cafe is spread across two floors, each filled with mismatched vintage furniture, local artwork, candles, and the accumulated charm of years of operation. The second floor is the cosiest, with low ceilings and window seats overlooking the street. It feels like visiting someone's very cool living room.

Practical Tips

Walk in. Head upstairs for the best atmosphere. A crepe and coffee make for a perfect mid-afternoon break on the walk up to or down from Hallgrimskirkja.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cafe Babalu known for?: The cosy, eclectic atmosphere, excellent crepes (both sweet and savoury), homemade cakes, and good coffee. It is one of the most charming and photogenic cafes in Reykjavik.
How much does a meal cost?: Crepes ISK 1,800-2,500, coffee ISK 600-800, cake ISK 1,000-1,500 (approximately €4-17). Very affordable.
Do I need a reservation?: No. Walk in and find a table. The second floor is the cosiest.
Where is Cafe Babalu?: At Skolavordustigur 22a, on the street that leads up to Hallgrimskirkja. A natural stop on the walk up or down the hill.
What makes Cafe Babalu special?: The atmosphere. The cafe is spread across two floors of a colourful old building, filled with mismatched furniture, artwork, and the kind of bohemian character that cannot be replicated.
Is Cafe Babalu good for working or reading?: Yes. The relaxed atmosphere and good wifi make it a popular spot for working or reading, especially on the quieter second floor.