Iceland may be better known for its glaciers and geysers than for its gastronomy—but for those in the know, it’s quickly becoming one of the most exciting culinary destinations in the world. From Michelin-recommended chefs cooking with geothermal energy to farm-to-table tasting menus set beside windswept fjords, Iceland offers a surprisingly rich and innovative fine-dining culture rooted in nature, tradition, and hyper-local sourcing.

This is luxury reimagined through food: intimate chef’s tables, exclusive foraging experiences, private volcanic cooking demos, and seafood pulled fresh from the North Atlantic and prepared just minutes later. And with Deluxe Iceland curating every detail, these gourmet experiences become more than meals—they become unforgettable journeys into the soul of Iceland.

A New Nordic Culinary Wave

Iceland’s culinary scene has evolved rapidly over the past two decades. Influenced by the New Nordic movement—which emphasizes seasonality, locality, and sustainability—Icelandic chefs have embraced ancient techniques while innovating with modern methods.

High-end restaurants in Reykjavik and across the countryside are showcasing Icelandic ingredients in ways that highlight their purity and origin: wild herbs and seaweed, hand-dived scallops, pasture-raised lamb, Arctic char, and even Icelandic moss. Expect dishes that are as artistic as they are flavorful, often using age-old preservation techniques like pickling, curing, and fermentation.

Private Chef Dinners with a View

For the ultimate in luxury, Deluxe Iceland arranges private chef dinners at remote lodges, countryside cabins, and luxury villas. Imagine arriving at your secluded accommodation in the highlands or on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, only to be greeted by your personal chef preparing a multi-course tasting menu tailored to your preferences.

Some chefs are internationally recognized Icelandic talents, while others are hidden gems known only to local insiders. These dinners may feature Arctic char cured with wild thyme and birch smoke, free-range lamb grilled over driftwood coals, or skyr mousse infused with crowberries picked just steps away. And it all unfolds in the comfort of your private lodge—no reservations, no interruptions, just you, the flavors, and the landscape.

Sea-to-Table in the Westfjords

The Westfjords offer some of Iceland’s freshest seafood and most dramatic coastal backdrops. Private boat tours can take you out to fish for cod, haddock, or even sea urchins, with your catch prepared immediately by an onboard chef or back at a nearby boutique hotel.

Deluxe Iceland can also arrange for exclusive tastings with local seafood artisans—think smoked lumpfish roe, pickled herring, and slow-baked Atlantic halibut—all paired with Icelandic craft beer or premium Arctic spirits. Guests may also visit traditional fishing villages and learn how locals have survived (and thrived) off the sea for centuries.

Farm-to-Table Feasts in the Icelandic Countryside

Though the climate is harsh, Iceland’s geothermal energy and strong farming traditions support a surprising bounty of agricultural products. Luxe farm-to-table experiences give travelers the opportunity to meet Iceland’s farmers and producers directly—then taste the results.

You might visit a geothermal greenhouse in Hveragerði where tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs grow year-round—culminating in a fresh lunch featuring baked arctic char with dill cream and locally grown cherry tomatoes. Or perhaps you’ll enjoy a fireside meal at a boutique farm stay in South Iceland, where everything from butter to bread to beetroot comes straight from the earth beneath your feet.

For a more interactive experience, Deluxe Iceland can arrange private cooking classes with chefs on site—perfect for families or culinary enthusiasts.

Volcanic Cooking: Harnessing the Heat of the Earth

Nowhere else in the world can you experience a meal cooked by the raw power of volcanic activity. Iceland’s geothermal terrain has inspired creative chefs to embrace hot springs and lava fields as their kitchen.

In the Reykjadalur valley, guests can trek to a secret geothermal spot where eggs are boiled in hot spring water and rye bread is baked underground. In other regions, Deluxe Iceland can organize traditional geothermal “hverabrauð” demonstrations—where dark, sweet rye loaves are buried in hot earth for up to 24 hours.

For something more refined, visit a fine-dining restaurant that uses geothermal ovens or hot spring steam to cook lamb, shellfish, or root vegetables. It’s a uniquely Icelandic way to infuse meals with the elements—smoke, steam, earth, and fire.

Gourmet Foraging & Wild Dining

Foraging isn’t just a trend in Iceland—it’s a way of life. Wild herbs like angelica, Arctic thyme, and sorrel flourish in meadows and along coastlines. Edible seaweed, mushrooms, and berries can be found throughout the summer and autumn months.

Deluxe Iceland offers curated foraging tours with expert local guides, often paired with chefs who will prepare the collected ingredients on the spot. You’ll walk through mossy lava fields or coastal cliffs, harvesting wild treats before enjoying a meal cooked over an open flame.

Luxury travelers may also opt for a private wilderness picnic, complete with champagne, hand-crafted charcuterie, and warm soups simmered over volcanic rocks. These experiences combine Iceland’s raw nature with its deep-rooted culinary wisdom.

Iconic Restaurants with VIP Access

While much of Iceland’s gourmet magic happens in the wild, some of the country’s finest culinary experiences are found in Reykjavik and surrounding towns. Deluxe Iceland has partnerships with many of Iceland’s top-tier restaurants and can arrange priority reservations, chef meet-and-greets, and private dining rooms.

Highlights may include:

DILL: Iceland’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, known for tasting menus that showcase New Nordic cuisine with local twists.

Matur og Drykkur: A modern take on old Icelandic recipes, located inside a former saltfish factory.

Sumac Grill + Drinks: A luxurious fusion of Icelandic ingredients and North African spices in a chic downtown setting.

ÓX: An intimate 11-seat chef’s counter experience hidden behind a cocktail bar.

Deluxe Iceland ensures VIP clients are seated at the best tables, enjoy tailored wine pairings, and may even receive behind-the-scenes tours of the kitchens.

Wine, Spirits & Pairings the Icelandic Way

While Iceland is not a wine-producing country, its burgeoning craft spirits scene and creative approach to drink pairings make up for it. Private tasting sessions can be arranged with distillers who produce Icelandic gin, birch liqueur, and whisky matured using volcanic heat.

Some luxury accommodations also feature curated cellars with hand-selected wines and champagnes—sourced to pair perfectly with Iceland’s flavors. Deluxe Iceland’s sommelier partners can guide guests through pairings that highlight the minerality of Arctic char, the smokiness of fermented shark (for the adventurous), or the sweetness of cloudberry desserts.

Seasonal Celebrations & Culinary Festivals

Certain times of year offer extra special opportunities for food lovers. Deluxe Iceland’s culinary itineraries can align with:

Réttir (Sheep Roundup) in September, featuring traditional feasts and farm celebrations.

Thorrablot (January–February), Iceland’s midwinter festival, where rare delicacies like fermented shark, smoked lamb, and blood pudding are served with schnapps.

Food & Fun Festival in Reykjavik, which brings together world-renowned chefs and Icelandic kitchens for one-of-a-kind collaborations.

Each of these events can be experienced through a luxury lens—with private tables, meet-the-chef events, and curated tasting menus far from the crowds.

Why Choose Deluxe Iceland for Your Luxury Culinary Journey?

When it comes to exploring Iceland’s gourmet scene in style, Deluxe Iceland offers something no other company can: deep local relationships, unmatched access to private culinary spaces, and years of experience crafting custom itineraries for discerning travelers.

Whether you’re dreaming of a chef-prepared feast on a glacier, a tasting tour through Reykjavik’s top restaurants, or an off-the-grid dinner in the shadow of a volcano—Deluxe Iceland delivers with precision, care, and authenticity.

Their handpicked culinary partners span the entire country, and each experience is designed not just to feed you, but to surprise and delight you. If you’re seeking the best Iceland has to offer in food, drink, and hospitality, there’s no better guide than Deluxe Iceland.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best time of year for luxury food experiences in Iceland?
Summer (June–August) offers the most variety, including fresh foraging, seafood, and farm visits. Winter adds unique opportunities like geothermal cooking and festive seasonal dishes.

2. Can Deluxe Iceland accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes. All private chefs and restaurants can tailor menus for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-friendly needs with advance notice.

3. Are these experiences suitable for families or kids?
Many gourmet experiences—like farm visits, geothermal baking, and foraging—are great for families. Deluxe Iceland will customize the experience based on your group.

4. How far in advance should culinary trips be booked?
Due to limited availability with chefs and small venues, 3–6 months advance planning is recommended, especially during peak travel months.

5. Can I combine food tours with other luxury activities like spas or sightseeing?
Absolutely. Deluxe Iceland specializes in full-service itineraries that seamlessly blend food, nature, wellness, and adventure.