Gamla Kaupfelagid
A restaurant and bar in a historic cooperative building in Akranes, serving European-influenced dishes and drinks less than an hour from Reykjavik.
Gamla Kaupfelagid -- The Old Cooperative -- takes its name from the building it occupies, a former cooperative store that has been converted into one of Akranes' most popular dining and drinking establishments. Situated in this small coastal town less than an hour from Reykjavik, it offers a proper restaurant and bar experience that makes Akranes worth more than just a drive-through on the way to West Iceland.
The Food
The menu is broad enough to satisfy different appetites without trying to be everything to everyone. Burgers are well-made and popular, fish dishes take advantage of the town's proximity to the ocean, and there are enough Icelandic staples alongside European-influenced options to keep both locals and visitors happy. The kitchen is consistent rather than groundbreaking, which at this price point is exactly what you want.
Portions are generous and the quality of ingredients is apparent. This is clearly a kitchen that cares about what it serves, even if it is not attempting to reinvent Icelandic cuisine.
The Setting
The historic building gives Gamla Kaupfelagid a sense of place and character that a new-build restaurant would struggle to achieve. The interior balances the original architectural features with a modern, comfortable dining environment. The bar area has its own distinct personality and tends to draw a local crowd, particularly as the evening progresses on weekends.
Akranes itself is a pleasant, understated town with a dramatic coastal setting and a few attractions worth exploring -- including a lighthouse walk and the Akranes Museum Centre.
Why Stop Here
If you are driving the road to Borgarfjordur, Snaefellsnes, or the Westfjords, Akranes is a natural breaking point, and Gamla Kaupfelagid is the best restaurant in town. It is also worth considering as a day trip from Reykjavik if you want to see a different side of Icelandic life -- a working town with genuine character, rather than a tourist-oriented village.
Practical Tips
Akranes is roughly 50 minutes from Reykjavik via the Hvalfjordur tunnel. No reservations are needed for lunch, but weekend dinners can be busy. The restaurant is family-friendly during daytime hours, with the bar atmosphere becoming more pronounced in the evening.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Gamla Kaupfelagid?
- The Old Cooperative -- a restaurant and bar housed in a historic former cooperative store building in Akranes, serving a varied menu of European-influenced dishes alongside Icelandic staples.
- Where is Gamla Kaupfelagid?
- At Kirkjubraut 11 in Akranes, a coastal town on the west coast of Iceland, less than an hour's drive from Reykjavik via Highway 1 and the Hvalfjordur tunnel.
- What kind of food is served?
- A varied menu including burgers, fish dishes, steaks, pasta, and Icelandic favourites. The kitchen draws on European influences while working with local ingredients.
- Is it worth stopping at on a road trip?
- Yes, especially if you are heading to or from West Iceland or Snaefellsnes. Akranes is a natural stop, and Gamla Kaupfelagid offers a proper sit-down meal in pleasant surroundings.
- Is there a bar?
- Yes, a full bar with beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits. The bar area has its own atmosphere and draws a local crowd, particularly on weekend evenings.
- What are the prices like?
- Main courses ISK 2,800-5,500. Drinks at standard Icelandic bar prices. Moderate for the quality and setting.
Explore Iceland's Food Scene — Reykjavik
Join a guided food tour and discover the best local flavors Iceland has to offer.
Browse Food ToursMore in Reykjavik
See all →101 Reykjavik Street Food
Traditional Icelandic soups and stews served quickly and cheaply on the main street -- the lamb soup alone is worth the visit.
108 Matur
A small, no-frills lunch spot in the 108 district of Reykjavik, beloved by locals for its freshly made daily specials and remarkably low prices.
1919 Restaurant
The dining room at Radisson Blu 1919 Hotel on Posthusstraeti, set in a beautifully restored early 20th-century building in the heart of downtown Reykjavik.