Detour Pit Stop #136: Grill 66, Siglufjörður, Iceland

Photo: Charlotte Vowden

Make a Pit Stop at Grill 66 for the most remote - and delicious - burger in Iceland

Iceland’s northernmost settlement is best known for its herring fishing heritage. They used to hunt sharks here too. Located at the tip of the Tröllaskagi peninsula, Siglufjörður is home to a tight-knit community that has an enduring relationship with the sea. Surprising then, that it’s probably the best place you’ll eat a burger on the island. Think turf, not surf.

To get there, abandon Route 1 – the touristy primary highway – and set your sat nav for Grill 66. There’s one road in and out of town, Route 76, and whether approaching from the east or the west, the driving is spectacular. You’ll lose count of the waterfalls that cascade off cliff edges into the Atlantic.

Conveniently, this burger joint is part of the town’s petrol station, so you can top up tummy and tank in one hit. Smashed patties and trendy flavours aren’t a thing here, the more traditional menu comprises grilled meat, a few sides and some fries. Request an extra sachet of Kartöflukrydd seasoning to give your portion of fried potatoes some extra oniony zing. A local favourite, which is always a good sign, meals are cooked to order so it’s fresher, tastier and a little slower than typical fast food. There are plant-based options too.

A household name, Grill 66 is a chain, but Siglufjörður’s outpost is possibly the most sensationally set. Dine out on the picnic bench beyond the forecourt on the bank of the fjord and gaze up at the mountain’s as you graze. Then, take the 793 up to the ski resort on the outskirts of town for a birds’ eye view. Before you go though, treat yourself to a squiggle of soft serve. Ice cream always seems to taste better in the summer by the sea, especially when it’s being melted by the heat of the midnight sun.

Words & Photography Charlotte Vowden Instagram

---

ROADBOOK

CLASS: FAST FOOD

NAME: GRILL 66

ROUTE: Route 76, Tjarnargata 6, 580 Siglufjörður

COUNTRY: Iceland

---

---