Kaffi Ilmur

Kaffi Ilmur is the kind of cafe that makes Akureyri feel like a proper destination rather than just a stopover on the way to somewhere else. Tucked into a quaint little yellow building on Hafnarstrati -- one of Akureyri's oldest houses -- it has been quietly winning over locals and visitors since opening in 2012, and it now holds the distinction of being one of the highest-rated restaurants in all of North Iceland.

The Food and Drink

The homemade cakes are the star attraction and they deserve every bit of the praise they receive. The selection changes daily but always includes several options, from traditional Icelandic layer cakes to chocolate creations and fruit tarts. The traditional lamb soup is hearty, warming, and exactly what you want after a morning spent exploring Akureyri in anything less than perfect weather. Sandwiches and light lunch options round out a menu that manages to be simple without being limited.

The coffee is excellent -- properly made, served with care, and available in all the standard preparations. The hot chocolate is worth mentioning specifically, as it has its own loyal following among repeat visitors.

The Setting

The ground floor cafe is intimate and warmly decorated, but the real prize is the second floor restaurant. From here, picture windows frame a stunning view across Eyjafjordur, the longest fjord in Iceland. On a clear day, the panorama stretches across the water to the mountains on the far side, and it is the sort of view that makes you put your phone away and simply sit for a while.

The building itself contributes to the atmosphere. Old wooden floors, low ceilings, and the accumulated warmth of a structure that has stood for well over a century create a cosiness that newer establishments struggle to replicate.

Why It Matters

Akureyri has a growing cafe and restaurant scene, but Kaffi Ilmur remains the benchmark. The staff are consistently praised for being welcoming and attentive, the quality of the baking never wavers, and the combination of excellent food in a genuinely beautiful setting at reasonable prices makes it essential. If you are passing through Akureyri -- and most travellers doing the Ring Road will -- this is where you should stop.

Practical Tips

The cafe is small, so peak summer hours can mean a short wait for a table. Morning visits tend to be quieter. Head upstairs for the best atmosphere and the fjord views. Cash is accepted but cards are preferred, as is the norm throughout Iceland.