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Reykjavík grocery stores

Hello,
Hoping someone has some experiences with grocery stores in Reykjavík?
Which one did you like the best?
Are there any open on Sundays?

We’re renting a flat with full kitchen in Laugadauler area. Hoping to cook on our own to save some money.

Any advice is welcome.
Thanks!

Posted by
327 posts

In 2014, we stayed a few nights at Laugavegur 18 in Reykjavik. A few blocks down that same street, we shopped at a fairly large grocery store which I think was decorated in a bright yellow storefront - I'm sorry that I don't recall the name of the store nor the hours. I was able to purchase some gluten-free items for my celiac husband which was the main objective for finding a grocery store. I was impressed that their frozen foods section was an entire room!

Maybe another poster will be able to provide more details?

Edit: Just looked at the previous poster's entry, and the store I went to may have been named BONUS. Their website is not in English, but as far as I can tell, it looks like they are open on Sundays.

Posted by
16091 posts

Bonus is the main chain of supermarkets in Iceland. They are scattered all over with a few in Reykjavik. I shopped in them and their prices, compared to restaurants and convenience stores, are very good. Don't expect the same large selection of produce as we have in the U.S. and learn the names of some of the foods in Icelandic. Especially dairy. I bought what I thought was milk and it turned out to be a yogurty drink. They all contain the word "milch" You will also find some prepared sandwiches and salads.

Most of the people working at the stores speak some English. At least that was what I ran into in the two I shopped in. Most are open on Sundays. They close around 6-7 PM on most days.

They do have an English language website:

https://bonus.is/en/

Posted by
123 posts

Thanks folks! I also found All Things Iceland podcast and the app Vegan Iceland which are helpful.

Posted by
502 posts

Bonus or Kronan. They're all over. Kronan had longer opening hours, and even opened on public holidays. Prices aren't bad. Don't let people's comments about HOW EXPENSIVE food is, in Iceland. Eating out costs more, for sure, depending on where and what you eat. Alcohol is definitely expensive. Buy at the Duty free when you land. I ate as well as I do in the US, and found that prices were more like when you aren't getting sales at Wholefoods or better supermarkets. Definitely don't compare to Walmart, which I would never buy food from, but if that's what you do, prices would seem much higher. There are bargain bins with fresh produce at both supermarkets. I got some really good vegetables and fruit, for a fraction of the original cost. Even cheaper than the US!

Posted by
123 posts

Thank you so very much! I see there is a Krónan within reasonable walking distance.
We’re coop/Whole Foods kind of consumers so we really appreciate your feedback!