Svarta Kaffið
Experience Reykjavik's beloved bread bowl soup at Svarta Kaffið. Enjoy a cozy atmosphere and delicious, hearty soups. Rated 4.6 stars. Discover this unique culinary gem.
About Svarta Kaffið
This popular downtown Reykjavik eatery offers a truly unique dining experience, centered around its signature dish: hearty, flavorful soups served inside a hollowed-out, crusty loaf of bread. It's a simple yet brilliant concept that has earned it a stellar 4.6-star rating from over 3,000 diners. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors seeking a comforting and delicious meal. With its focus on quality ingredients and swift service, it's an ideal place to savor a taste of Iceland in a cozy setting.
Restaurant Analysis
Restaurant Characteristics
This restaurant has been analyzed using our formula-based system to help you understand its key features and match it with your dining preferences.
Price Range (Moderate)
Moderate pricing ($$) - Mid-range restaurants with good value
Meal Time (dinner)
This restaurant primarily serves dinner. Based on opening hours.
Group Size (Groups Welcome)
Welcomes large groups and families. Great for group dining.
Atmosphere (Casual)
Relaxed and laid-back atmosphere
Dining Style (Flexible)
Flexible options. Reservations available but not required.
Features & Amenities
This restaurant offers: Beer, Wine, Coffee, Groups Welcome, Reservations
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Why Travelers Love Svarta Kaffið
Sourced from recent guest feedback and verified reviews.
Svarta Kaffið is a popular soup restaurant located on Laugavegur Street in downtown Reykjavík. Its specialty is the “bread bowl soup,” where hot soup is served inside a hollowed-out round loaf of bread. We ordered the beef and lamb soup and the vegetable soup separately (each priced at 3,100 ISK). Since soup is the only item on the menu, it took about ten seconds for our order to arrive — the fastest serving time I’ve ever experienced in a restaurant in my life. The soup was rich and flavorful, and breaking pieces of the bread to eat with it made for a unique experience. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere; when we visited around 7 p.m., it was almost full, but the turnover seemed quick, so even if you have to wait, you’ll likely get a table soon. It is said to have the best soup in Iceland, but I noticed that many restaurants here also claim to be the best in something. I have not tried other soup places, but this one did not feel particularly outstanding. The soup was good, but not something I would come back for. One nice thing is that you can get a refill, so you will definitely leave full. The price is also reasonable by Icelandic standards. Overall, nothing special, but still better than eating supermarket food. We had the golden combo soup served in bread, paired with their local beer. Absolutely delicious! 🍺🥣 The best part — The soup was refillable once
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Recent Reviews
HiDe86
November 10, 2025
Svarta Kaffið is a popular soup restaurant located on Laugavegur Street in downtown Reykjavík. Its specialty is the “bread bowl soup,” where hot soup is served inside a hollowed-out round loaf of bread. We ordered the beef and lamb soup and the vegetable soup separately (each priced at 3,100 ISK). Since soup is the only item on the menu, it took about ten seconds for our order to arrive — the fastest serving time I’ve ever experienced in a restaurant in my life. The soup was rich and flavorful, and breaking pieces of the bread to eat with it made for a unique experience. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere; when we visited around 7 p.m., it was almost full, but the turnover seemed quick, so even if you have to wait, you’ll likely get a table soon.
D C.
November 12, 2025
It is said to have the best soup in Iceland, but I noticed that many restaurants here also claim to be the best in something. I have not tried other soup places, but this one did not feel particularly outstanding. The soup was good, but not something I would come back for. One nice thing is that you can get a refill, so you will definitely leave full. The price is also reasonable by Icelandic standards. Overall, nothing special, but still better than eating supermarket food.
V V.
October 19, 2025
We had the golden combo soup served in bread, paired with their local beer. Absolutely delicious! 🍺🥣 The best part — The soup was refillable once
Romy
November 16, 2025
One of the best comfort spots in Reykjavik. Supremely speedy service, great atmosphere, staff are friendly and hilarious. Would 100% recommend coming here to eat on a chilly evening!
Jess M.
October 25, 2025
A must visit if you’re in Reykjavik! The bread soup bowls were delicious and so authentic and fresh. You cannot go wrong with the simplicity of this place - they simply ask you if you want meat or vegetarian. We went vegetarian and we were lucky to have an amazing cauliflower soup - I believe the options change everyday which makes it an exciting surprise. The place was also super cosy and the service was very quick. I recommend having one bowl per person for a filling, hearty dinner although I did see some people sharing. I cannot wait to go back one day!
What to Expect
Features and amenities that make Svarta Kaffið special
Beer
Wine
Coffee
Groups Welcome
Reservations
Practical Information
Everything you need to know before you visit
Payment Options
Parking
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Good public transportation with buses. Walking is perfect for exploring the compact city center, and organized tours provide access to surrounding natural attractions.
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