Last updated on December 19th, 2023 at 03:37 pm
When it comes to cafes in Reykjavik, there’s no shortage of quaint spots perfect for a rainy day coffee or to satisfy your co-working needs. The coffee shops in Reykjavik certainly match the colorful personality of Iceland’s city center, and there’s plenty to choose from.
With tourism increasing, the city is seeing a rise in digital nomads and solo travelers visiting each year. As a relatively small capital, Reykjavik makes competition fierce in terms of finding the best cafes for your needs! If you’re looking for a local haunt or an eccentric spot with a huge personality, Reykjavik has it all.
Cafe Babalu
With its bright orange exterior and blue roof, there’s no missing Cafe Babalu. Located along the Rainbow road leading to Hallgrimskirkja, walking into this quirky cafe is an adventure in and of itself.
The walls are full of collectibles and unique ornaments. Vintage postcards, figurines, old books, and antique furnishings: there’s nowhere like it in the city.
Cafe Babalu certainly makes for an unconventional way to enjoy your coffee. During the warmer days in Iceland, there’s also a charming rooftop area perfect for people watching.
With a wide range of breakfast favorites, be sure to order the famous crepes or desserts!
12 Tonar
A quiet escape by day and buzzing bar by night, 12 Tonar is the place to be all times of the day. Voted as one of the best record stores in the world, it’s easy to see why when you step inside.
Upon entering, the cafe is lined with thousands of records to browse at your leisure. The furnishings are simple and comfortable, making for a peaceful place to get some work done.
Venture to the quaint bar to order a morning drink (if you’re a tea lover, they have so many options!)
If you’re lucky enough to get there without the crowds, there’s a comfy couch in the center of the space, and a whole downstairs area with comfortable seating too.
In the evenings, 12 Tonar typically hosts live music performances and DJ’s: a popular spot for the locals to hangout, and tourists to enjoy.
Reykjavik Roasters
Coffee connoisseurs rejoice! If you’re looking for somewhere to work with some of the best coffee in town, Reykjavik Roasters is the place to be. Keeping their finger on the pulse, the cafe is known for importing their coffee beans from Kenya, Ethiopia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Peru and Brazil.
As a popular spot for both tourists and locals, Reykjavik Roasters has 3 locations in the city. All cafes offer an open concept with a buzzing yet relaxing feel.
With a lot of wiggle room, there’s plenty of space for digital nomads to move around and find the perfect work space for them.
If you get hungry, Reykjavik Roasters also offers light bites like croissants and other pastries. Bored with working? The cafes also have workshops for those looking to brush up on their barista skills.
Kaffitar
A family run business founded in 1990, what sets Kaffitar apart from other cafes in Reykjavik is its welcoming family feel. Importing its beans from brazil., Guatemala, and Nicaragua, this quaint cafe is another fan-favorite for coffee lovers.
With its dark interiors and pops of deep orange and reds, Kaffitar is a hideaway for the coldest Icelandic days. They offer a huge selection of seasonal favorites, white and black coffees, and tea options.
For a little work break, there’s also a delicious menu of sweet treats and savory faves.
