Is There a KFC in Iceland? (2025 Travel & Food Guide)

For travelers exploring Iceland’s dramatic landscapes — from Reykjavik’s colorful streets to the Golden Circle — one common question arises: is there a KFC in Iceland?

As of 2025, the answer is no. Iceland does not have any KFC restaurants, and it is one of the few European countries without this global fast-food chain. However, travelers looking for fried chicken options have alternative choices to satisfy their cravings while exploring the island.

Why KFC Isn’t in Iceland

Despite Iceland’s strong tourism industry, KFC has not established a presence in the country due to several factors:

Small Population: Iceland has roughly 380,000 residents, limiting local demand for multiple outlets.

High Operating Costs: Importing ingredients, high wages, and rent costs make operating expensive for large fast-food chains.

Local Food Culture: Icelanders prefer fresh, locally sourced seafood, lamb, and traditional dishes, making fast-food chains less dominant.

As a result, KFC has focused its European expansion in countries with larger populations and higher year-round demand.

Alternatives to KFC in Iceland

Although KFC is not present, visitors can still enjoy fried chicken and quick-service meals at several local or international alternatives.

Fried Chicken Options

Chicken Hut Reykjavik: Offers fried chicken, wings, and sandwiches with Icelandic seasoning.

Jói & Palli Fast Food: Local fast-food chain with fried chicken, burgers, and fries.

Hamborgarafabrikkan: Icelandic burger chain with chicken sandwich options.

International Chains

Domino’s Pizza: Available in Reykjavik and Akureyri, occasionally offering chicken-based menu items.

McDonald’s Absence: McDonald’s left Iceland in 2009, making KFC less likely to expand without a proven market.

Tips for Travelers Craving KFC

If you’re visiting Iceland and really want the taste of KFC, here are a few strategies:

Bring KFC Snacks from Other Countries: Some travelers bring KFC snack packs from Europe if they’re on a road trip.

Try Local Fried Chicken: Icelandic fried chicken restaurants offer creative variations with herbs and local sauces.

Focus on Other Comfort Foods: Iceland is known for burgers, hot dogs, and seafood — try Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, Reykjavik’s famous hot dog stand.

While it won’t replace the Colonel’s original recipe, these options offer satisfying alternatives.

Why Travelers Should Know This

Iceland is increasingly popular with international tourists, especially from Europe, the U.S., and Asia. Many travelers expect familiar global brands, so knowing that KFC is unavailable prevents disappointment and allows for better meal planning.

Instead of searching for KFC, visitors can embrace local cuisine, from lamb soup and seafood to Icelandic pastries, making the trip more culturally immersive.

Visiting Reykjavik Without KFC

Reykjavik has a variety of casual dining and fast-food restaurants that make it easy to find alternatives:

Reykjavik Chips: Popular fried potato and chicken dishes.

Humarhöfnin Restaurant: Offers seafood platters and fried items that appeal to travelers seeking comfort food.

Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: Iceland’s iconic hot dog stand, open late and beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Even without KFC, visitors can enjoy tasty, convenient meals while exploring the city.

Conclusion

So, is there a KFC in Iceland?
No — Iceland does not have any KFC restaurants as of 2025. Travelers seeking the Colonel’s famous fried chicken will need to explore local alternatives or neighboring countries such as Norway, Denmark, or the UK.

While the absence of KFC may disappoint some international visitors, Iceland’s local food options, seafood, and casual eateries provide unique culinary experiences that are equally memorable.