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SwirlandRoll Japanese PancakesA-Worth Trying
Laugavegur 50, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
· Cafe, Brunch restaurant, Dessert shop
· 4.9/5 Google (287 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Cozy dessert cafe for fluffy Japanese-style pancakes and creative crepe rolls with standout hospitality; expect moderate Iceland pricing and occasional waits.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
SwirlandRoll earns a solid A- grade through exceptional food quality—fluffy, balanced Japanese pancakes and creative crepe rolls made to order—paired with outstanding owner-led hospitality that personalizes every visit. Reliable execution across repeat visits reinforces its standing as a beloved local favorite. The grade reflects strong performance across quality dimensions, though modest space constraints and made-to-order pacing prevent higher distinction.
Restaurant Summary
On Reykjavík’s main stroll, this cozy little shop feels warm and welcoming the moment you step in. More than a counter, it is a friendly perch where the owner chats, suggests flavors, and sometimes offers a tiny taste. One guest summed it up: treated like family while a fluffy pancake came off the griddle. Expect a small space, the aroma of butter and sugar, and made-to-order pacing. The cooking leans playful and cross-cultural: Japanese-style jiggly pancakes, sushi-style crepe rolls, and riffs like Dubai chocolate, brûlée, matcha, and dulce de leche. Sweet-leaning brunch items appear too. Flavors are balanced rather than cloying, and the hallmark is that cloud-light texture. It suits dessert lovers, curious travelers, and anyone who enjoys personalized creations over speed or ceremony. Families do well here. Kids gravitate to Nutella and banana, strawberries, or simple chocolate options, and hot chocolate is a hit. Seating is limited and waits happen at busy times, but approachable flavors and a relaxed vibe make it an easy treat stop after exploring Laugavegur.
At a Glance
- Exceptionally friendly owner-led hospitality that personalizes orders
- Fluffy Japanese-style pancakes and creative crepe rolls made to order
- Expect waits; small space and hands-on prep slow things down
- A few reports of cold items or policy limits on plant milk for coffee
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- Japanese-style souffle pancakes in Reykjavik
- Sushi-style crepe rolls
- Hands-on owner hospitality
What People Love
- That cloud-light pancake texture
- Kind, above-and-beyond service
- Customized flavors and gluten-free options
- Warm, cozy refuge from Reykjavik weather
- Unique sushi-style crepe concept
Points of Concern
- Made-to-order prep can mean 10-30 minute waits; patience required
- One report of forced tip screen and cluttered workspace; not widely repeated
- A recent complaint about refusal to make plant-milk coffee options
- Pricing is moderate for Reykjavik but can feel high to some visitors
- Review patterns are consistent with potential coordination (very high 5-star share, repeated owner name praise, enthusiastic language) which may not reflect typical diner experience
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average CostISK 3,800-4,500 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For classic tastes: Nutella or Strawberry & Banana (ISK ~1,890-2,650)
- For adventurous: Dubai Chocolate or Pistachio (ISK ~2,650-2,850)
- Budget-friendly taste: White Chocolate (ISK 1,890)
Perfect For
- Post-dinner dessert crawl on Laugavegur
- Sweet-leaning brunch with playful twists
- A cozy late-evening treat stop
- Solo snack with friendly conversation
Location Insights
Area: Central shopping and strolling street popular with tourists and locals; lively foot traffic and cafe culture.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, busy into late evening with pedestrians.
Nearby: Near boutiques, bars, casual eateries; convenient dessert stop after dinner or sightseeing.
MiðborgMiðborg is Reykjavík's central neighborhood, characterized by a lively urban atmosphere with a diverse dining scene ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. The area is popular for its walkability, cultural venues, and a mix of locals and visitors enjoying the vibrant city life.
LaugavegurLaugavegur is Reykjavík's main shopping street and a popular micro-neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, cafes, bars, and eateries. It attracts a dynamic crowd looking for contemporary Icelandic cuisine and casual dining in a bustling, friendly environment.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:00–22:00
Tuesday16:00–22:00
Wednesday16:00–22:00
Thursday16:00–22:00
Friday16:00–22:00
Saturday16:00–22:00
Sunday16:00–22:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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