Icelandic Candy and Liquorice: A Local’s Guide

Liquorice and chocolate

Liquorice (lakkrís) turns up in a lot of Icelandic sweets. You’ll find it covered in chocolate, rolled into balls, mixed into ice cream and baked into cakes. Not a liquorice fan? There’s plenty of plain chocolate too.

What to try

Start with chocolate-covered liquorice, in small bites or bars. That’s the classic. Chocolate bars with puffed rice are another one many Icelanders grew up on.

At an ice cream shop, ask for a liquorice dip or crushed liquorice on your soft-serve. And for a gift, look for bean-to-bar chocolate made in Reykjavík.

Saturday is candy day

Many Icelandic families keep sweets for the weekend, and supermarkets have big pick-and-mix walls (nammibar). Some shops discount pick-and-mix at weekends, which makes it a cheap way to taste a bit of everything.

Taking it home

Chocolate and liquorice travel well. Compare supermarket and airport prices before you buy gifts. If you have dietary needs, read the ingredients: some sweets contain milk, wheat or gelatine.

Want to taste more of Iceland? Join our Reykjavík Locals Food Tour. See also what to eat in Reykjavík.

Quick answers

What candy is Iceland known for?

Liquorice, especially chocolate-covered liquorice, and chocolate bars with puffed rice.

Where can I buy Icelandic candy?

Any supermarket or corner shop, and the airport shops. Compare prices before you buy.

Why do Icelanders eat candy on Saturdays?

Many families keep sweets as a weekend treat, and the pick-and-mix walls in supermarkets are busiest on Saturdays.

About the author

Elfar Tjörfi Steinason, co-founder of Reykjavík Locals. Elfar was born in Reykjavík and still lives here. He has worked in restaurants and entertainment for the past 20 years, from waiting tables and cooking to running businesses.