Kaffitar Perlan

Perlan — the glass-domed landmark that crowns Oskjuhlid hill — is worth visiting for the views alone. The Kaffitar cafe on the upper level gives you a reason to linger. Sitting with a flat white and a cinnamon pastry while gazing out over the rooftops of Reykjavik, the ocean, and the distant mountains is one of those small pleasures that can define a trip.

The Coffee

Kaffitar is Iceland's homegrown coffee institution, roasting beans for nearly three decades. The Perlan branch serves their full menu: espresso, cappuccino, filter coffee, and seasonal specials, all made with the same beans you will find at their downtown locations. The quality is reliable — not experimental or cutting-edge, but consistently good. If you have become accustomed to Kaffitar during your time in Iceland, you know exactly what to expect.

The Food

This is a cafe, not a restaurant. The food offering runs to sandwiches, croissants, cakes, and a few savoury snacks — enough for a light lunch or an afternoon pick-me-up, but not a full meal. Gluten-free and vegan options are available, which is not always a given at Icelandic cafes outside the capital centre. The cakes, in particular, are worth a look.

The Views

The real reason to choose this Kaffitar over any of the dozen others in Reykjavik is the location. Perlan sits atop one of the highest points in the city, and the cafe's generous windows frame a panorama that takes in the harbour, Hallgrimskirkja, the colourful rooftops of the old town, and — on a clear day — Snaefellsjokull glacier shimmering on the western horizon. It is a view that rewards patience; grab a window seat and watch the light change.

Practical Tips

No ticket required. You can access the cafe and the observation deck without buying a museum ticket. The Perlan exhibitions (including an impressive indoor ice cave) are excellent, but if you are short on time or budget, the cafe alone justifies the trip.

Getting there. Perlan is a 20-minute walk uphill from downtown through the pleasant woodland of Oskjuhlid, or a short bus or taxi ride. There is free parking if you are driving. The walk is recommended if the weather is cooperating — the forested paths are lovely.

Timing. The cafe opens at 09:00 and closes at 19:00. Mornings are quieter; by early afternoon in summer, Perlan fills with tour groups. For the best experience, arrive before noon.

Combine with. The Perlan museum, the Oskjuhlid walking trails, or simply the observation deck circuit. On a clear day, allow time to walk the full perimeter of the dome for 360-degree views.

Kaffitar at Perlan is not a destination cafe in the way that Reykjavik Roasters or Sandholt might be. But as a place to drink good coffee with the best view in the city spread out beneath you, it is hard to beat.