Is There a McDonald’s in Iceland?

Wondering if there's a McDonald’s in Iceland? Learn the surprising story behind why the fast food giant left and what replaced it.

If you're traveling to Iceland and craving a Big Mac, you're out of luck. McDonald’s once had a presence in Iceland — but not anymore.

McDonald’s officially exited Iceland in 2009. The fast food giant once operated three locations in Reykjavik, the capital city, but closed them all during the global financial crisis.

Since then, no McDonald’s restaurants have reopened in Iceland. Today, the country remains one of the few Western nations without the golden arches.

Why Did McDonald’s Leave Iceland?

The collapse of Iceland’s banking system in 2008–2009 made it too expensive to import McDonald’s products. The cost of shipping, ingredients, and franchise fees skyrocketed, making the business model unsustainable.

Rather than compromise on quality or pricing, the local franchisee shut down all operations. McDonald’s itself confirmed that the closures were permanent and not part of a future return plan.

What Replaced McDonald’s in Iceland?

After McDonald’s left, its local franchisee launched a new burger brand called **Metro** (or “Metro Restaurant”). These restaurants:

- Use local ingredients instead of imported McDonald’s supplies
- Offer burgers, fries, and sodas in a familiar fast-food format
- Serve as a popular hangout for locals and tourists alike

Metro essentially picked up where McDonald’s left off, minus the global branding.

Are There Any American Fast Food Chains in Iceland?

Yes, several international chains still operate in Iceland, including:

- KFC: With multiple branches in Reykjavik and Akureyri
- Subway: Found throughout the capital
- Domino’s Pizza: One of the most popular chains in the country
- Taco Bell (briefly in the past): Now closed, like McDonald’s

Icelanders tend to favor local chains and healthier fast casual options, contributing to McDonald’s decision not to reenter the market.

Where to Get a Burger in Reykjavik

If you're in Reykjavik and need a burger fix, check out:

- Metro: Iceland’s homegrown McDonald’s replacement
- Hamborgarabúllan (Tommi’s Burger Joint): A beloved local chain with great reviews
- Block Burger and Lebowski Bar: Trendy downtown burger spots with unique Icelandic flair

These places offer high-quality burgers made from Icelandic beef — often fresher and better-reviewed than global chains.

Final Thoughts: No McDonald’s, No Problem

While Iceland doesn’t have a McDonald’s, it hasn’t missed a beat. The departure led to a thriving local fast-food scene that embraces quality, creativity, and Icelandic ingredients.

So, no — there’s no McDonald’s in Iceland. But that might just lead you to a better meal anyway.