Bæjarins beztu pylsur, which humbly translates as “the best hot dog in town,” is a simple stand in central Reykjavík whose popularity over the decades has given it a kind of cult status. Almost everyone in the country has eaten here, as have visitors including Bill Clinton and Metallica singer James Hetfield. In business since 1937, the stand has been instrumental in developing the specific Icelandic version of the American hot dog: a sausage made from a blend of organic Icelandic lamb with pork and beef, and includes toppings and condiments like ketchup, sweet mustard, fried (and raw, if requested) onions, and a special rémoulade made from mayonnaise, capers, and herbs. Unsurprisingly, the stall is at its busiest in the small hours of weekend mornings, after the bars and clubs close.
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Bæjarins Beztu Hot Dogs, Reykjavík, Iceland
Yes, it’s a hot dog stand. But Bæjarins Beztu might be the most popular eatery in Iceland, famous for feeding Bill Clinton as well as hordes of drunken partiers. The line starts to form at the Tryggvagata location around 10 p.m. every night and persists till 4:30 a.m. on weekends. What’s the appeal? Best damn hot dogs on the planet. You will go back for seconds. Bæjarins Beztu. 170 Seltjarnarnes.
Dog Gone It
Bæjarins beztu pylsur gets plenty of press, and plenty of attention from locals and visitors. I first read about this hot dog stand right here on AFAR, and made it my mission to visit my first night in Reykjavik. And my second. And my third... No joke, this joint lives up to its billing. If you spend significant time in Iceland, chances are good that you’re going to eat plenty of hot dogs, and chances are better that this is the best dog you bite into on your trip.