Hornid

Hofn calls itself the langoustine capital of Iceland, and Kaffi Hornid is where that claim gets put to the test. Operating on the main street since 1999, this cafe-bar-restaurant hybrid has been feeding Ring Road travellers and locals alike with a menu that ranges from fresh-off-the-boat langoustine to unexpectedly good pizza.

The Langoustine

Let us address the obvious first. You are in Hofn. The langoustine here is as fresh as it gets anywhere on the planet — pulled from the waters of Hornafjordur, often the same day it appears on your plate. Hornid prepares it simply and well: grilled, in soup, or as a salad topper. The langoustine soup is the popular choice, rich and warming and exactly what you want after a day of driving through East Iceland's dramatic landscapes.

The langoustine tails, served whole and lightly seasoned, are the dish for purists. When the ingredient is this good, the best thing a kitchen can do is get out of the way, and Hornid understands this.

Beyond Langoustine

The surprise at Hornid is the breadth of the menu. The pizza has developed a genuine following — wood-fired, properly topped, and a welcome option for travellers who have eaten fish for the fifth consecutive meal. The lamb dishes are solid, the pasta is competent, and the burgers fill the gap for those seeking something straightforward.

During the day, Hornid operates as a cafe with coffee, cake, and light meals. The transition to full restaurant service in the evening is seamless, and the atmosphere shifts accordingly from casual to something slightly more considered.

The Space

The cathedral ceilings are the first thing you notice. The building is airy and light, with ample seating that manages to feel spacious without being impersonal. It functions well as all three of its identities: cafe, restaurant, and bar. On a summer evening, it can be lively; in winter, it is cosy and warm against the East Iceland elements.

Practical Tips

Hofn is a natural stopping point on the Ring Road, usually reached after driving the south coast past Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. Hornid is often the first (or only) restaurant travellers encounter, and during summer it fills up accordingly. Reserving a dinner table in July or August is wise. Prices are moderate for Iceland, and the langoustine — while at the top of the menu price-wise — is genuinely worth it.

If you are only eating one meal in Hofn, eat it here. Order the langoustine. You will not regret it.