The Best Places to Get Coffee after Landing at KEF Airport

Icelanders love to drink coffee. According to data attributed to Faostat, coffee consumption per capita was 12.6kg annually in 2021, placing the country high up in the league tables. What’s always been a way of warming up in cold weather has turned into a national obsession. Even if it’s not part of your daily routine at home, you’ll probably want to partake while you’re here.

The Icelandic climate isn’t conducive to growing coffee beans, so they’re imported from the world’s finest growers. Nevertheless, roasting is done locally and has become a bit of an art form. Likewise, because locals demand their caffeine hit on a regular basis, there’s no shortage of skilled baristas who’ll compete to provide the very best coffee to anyone who wants to buy it.

The good news is that you won’t need to wait very long once you arrive if you’re hoping to taste it. Unlike in many places in the world, you won’t find a Starbucks in Iceland, which makes a pleasant change. Although, we’re confident that Icelandic chains such as Te & Kaffi and Kaffitár will soon work their way into your affections once you make it to the capital.

While you could grab a quick drink while you’re still at the airport, most travellers will be keen to get on their way as soon as possible. However, there are also a number of excellent cafés around Reykjanes, so there’s no need to wait until you’ve driven all the way over toReykjavik before sampling your first Icelandic coffee.

Instead, try one of our picks for the best places to get coffee after landing at Keflavik Airport.They’re just a short drive away from the arrivals hall. Note that opening hours vary, so it’s always a good idea to check social media or local listings before you set out, just in case.

Kökulist

 
Kökulist is a well-established bakery that supplies a wide range of baked goods to accompany your coffee. An array of cakes, sandwiches and breads are a tempting sight, while some reviewers rate their coffee as outstanding. So call in to find out from Jón Rúnar and Elín, the owners of Kökulist, what’s the secret to their success.

Sigurjóns Bakarí

 
This popular place in Keflavik is open from early in the morning until late in the afternoon, making it the ideal stop for those en route to Reykjavik and the countryside beyond. Its counters are full of cake, cookies and other treats that you can order alongside your coffee. From macchiatos to mochas, here you can order the drink you love.

Café Petite

 
Part bar, part café – what more could you ask for? Café Petite is a lively place in Keflavik that’s a popular hangout as well as a great place to top up your caffeine levels. Whether you have a preference for hot or cold coffee, there’s a drink with your name on it, from trendy nitro cold brew to classic Americano.

Blue Café

 
The Blue Lagoon’s iconic blue water has made this geothermal spa a must for visitors to Iceland. Even if you aren’t planning to take a dip – though you should – you might want to call in to its lovely café for a coffee while you gaze out the window. With floor to ceiling windows and a light, airy vibe, this is a great place for a restorative pitstop as you take in the stellar view.

Röstin Restaurant - The Old Lighthouse Café

 
First and foremost a restaurant, this is also a place where you might choose to grab a cup of coffee while taking in the sea views. It’s located on the second floor of the Heritage and Maritime Museum of Garðskagi. On the menu are a range of coffees including espresso, cappuccino and more.

One last thing: though you’ll find English-speakers in most cafés, you might wish to order your coffee in Icelandic. This is the phrase you’ll need if you want to ask for a coffee: “Gæti ég fengið einn kaffi takk?”