Reykjavik has several well-known bakeries. I tried a few of them during the trip, but if I could return to only one, it would be Sandholt.

I originally went because it was one of the city’s famous bakeries. What stayed with me, though, was the texture of the pastries — especially a pistachio Danish that I was still thinking about after the trip.

A wide selection of breads and pastries at Sandholt

A wide selection of breads and pastries at Sandholt Personal photo · 2025-03-04

An old bakery that still feels like modern Reykjavik

Sandholt describes itself as a family bakery built on decades of tradition, now carried on by a fourth generation of master bakers. It is also described by the bakery as one of Iceland’s oldest operating bakeries.

Inside, the long pastry counter immediately draws your attention. The space feels polished without becoming too formal, and you can catch glimpses of bread being prepared behind the counter.

Bread display and bakery workspace inside Sandholt

Bread display and bakery workspace inside Sandholt Personal photo · 2025-03-04

For Here, or To Go?

For takeaway, I picked up croissants and Danish pastries. When eating in, I had a sourdough sandwich and a cream-filled doughnut. The quality of the bread made the place feel useful for more than just a sweet stop.

A sandwich and cream-filled doughnut at Sandholt

Sourdough sandwich and cream-filled doughnut at the bakery Personal photo · 2025-03-04

The current official menu starts breakfast service at 7:30 AM, with options such as skyr, sourdough toast, waffles, avocado toast and shakshuka. Sandwiches and lunch dishes are also available.

The pistachio Danish was the one

If I had to choose one thing, it would be the pistachio Danish.

The outside had a dark, crisp bake that shattered slightly when bitten, while the inside carried a rich, nutty flavor. It was not simply sweet; the layers, butteriness and pistachio flavor stayed distinct.

It was the kind of pastry that made me think, “I wish I could bring this home.”

Cream-filled and chocolate pastries in the Sandholt display

Cream-filled and chocolate pastries in the display case Personal photo · 2025-03-04

Expect a queue around brunch time

Sandholt can get busy. On my visit there was a line, particularly around brunch time, and I had to wait a little.

If your Reykjavik schedule is tight, going early for breakfast or picking up pastries to go may be the easiest option.

Sandholt storefront on Laugavegur in central Reykjavík

Sandholt storefront on Laugavegur in central Reykjavík Personal photo · 2025-03-04

PRACTICAL INFO

Place
Sandholt / Sandholt Bakery

Address
Laugavegur 36, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

Opening Hours

  • Daily: 07:30–18:00
  • Breakfast: from 07:30
  • Lunch dishes: from 12:00

Visit Tips

  • Queues can form around peak brunch hours (10:00–13:00); early morning visits or takeaway can save time.
  • Allergy note: products may contain traces of gluten, dairy, nuts, soy, eggs, etc.
  • If staying multiple days in Reykjavik, visit early in the itinerary so you have time to return.