The Icelandic Hot Dog: How to Order One With Everything

What makes it different?

It starts with the sausage. Icelandic hot dogs are typically made with lamb as well as pork and beef, which makes them milder and slightly sweet. They’re kept warm in hot water until you order and come in a soft, warm bun. The natural casing gives a gentle snap when you bite.

How to order: “eina með öllu”

Say “eina með öllu” (“AY-na meth UHT-lu”), which means one with everything. It comes with a sweet Icelandic ketchup, pylsusinnep (a sweet brown mustard), remúlaði (a creamy remoulade with pickles), raw onion and crispy fried onion. For many people the crispy onion is the best bit.

Not keen on raw onion? Ask for “eina með öllu nema hráum”, everything except raw onions. That’s a perfectly normal order.

Where locals get theirs

The famous one is Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur by the harbour, selling hot dogs since 1937. The name translates roughly as “best hot dogs in the city”. Expect a line at lunch and late at night, but service is quick.

You don’t have to go there, though. Petrol stations and kiosks all over the country sell hot dogs too.

On the food tour

On our Reykjavík Locals Food Tour every tasting is a surprise until you get there, and your guide tells the stories behind the food along the way.

Quick answers

What is in an Icelandic hot dog?

The sausage is typically a mix of lamb, pork and beef. One with everything is served with ketchup, sweet brown mustard, remoulade, raw onion and crispy fried onion.

How do you order an Icelandic hot dog?

Ask for “eina með öllu”, which means one with everything.

Where is the most famous hot dog stand in Reykjavík?

Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, near the old harbour. It has been selling hot dogs since 1937.

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.