Verified Facts
When visiting Greenland, you should eat traditional dishes such as Suaasat, a hearty meat stew, and Mattak, a frozen whale skin snack, as well as try some of the freshest seafood in the world.
Quick Facts
Food Culture Overview
Greenland's cuisine is shaped by its Inuit heritage and Arctic environment, with a focus on sustainable and traditional food sources. The country's unique cultural identity is reflected in its dishes, which often feature seafood and game meats. Greenlandic cuisine has been influenced by Danish and Canadian cuisines, but it has maintained its distinct flavor and character. Regional variations exist, with the northern and southern parts of the country having different specialties and ingredients.
The traditional Greenlandic diet consists of whale, seal, and fish, which are rich in proteins and fats. These ingredients are often combined with berries, roots, and other foraged plants to create nutritious and flavorful dishes. In modern times, Greenlandic cuisine has evolved to incorporate more imported ingredients and international flavors, but the traditional dishes remain an essential part of the country's cultural heritage.
Greenland's food culture is also closely tied to its hunting and fishing traditions. Many Greenlanders still participate in these activities, which provide a source of fresh and sustainable food. The country's cuisine is also influenced by its seasonal variations, with different ingredients and dishes available during different times of the year.
Must-Try Dishes
| Dish | Type | Description | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suaasat | Stew | Traditional Greenlandic meat stew made with lamb or beef | Restaurants in Nuuk and other major towns |
| Mattak | Snack | Frozen whale skin with a layer of blubber | Local markets and food stalls |
| Kiviak | Appetizer | Fermented little auks (small seabirds) | Traditional Greenlandic restaurants |
| Ammassat | Soup | Hearty soup made with whale or seal meat and vegetables | Cafes and restaurants in coastal towns |
| Polar bear steak | Main Course | Grilled polar bear steak served with potatoes and vegetables | High-end restaurants in Nuuk |
| Arctic char | Main Course | Pan-seared Arctic char served with a side of berries and roots | Restaurants in fishing villages |
| Musk ox burger | Main Course | Juicy burger made with musk ox meat and served with a side of fries | Cafes and restaurants in major towns |
| Qeqertaq | Dessert | Traditional Greenlandic cake made with berries and cream | Bakeries and cafes in Nuuk |
| Akutaq | Dessert | Greenlandic ice cream made with whipped animal fat and berries | Local markets and food stalls |
Street Food & Snacks
- Mattak, frozen whale skin with a layer of blubber, $10-$15 USD per piece
- Kiviak, fermented little auks, $15-$20 USD per serving
- Arctic char skewers, $12-$18 USD per skewer
- Musk ox sausages, $10-$15 USD per sausage
- Qeqertaq, traditional Greenlandic cake, $5-$10 USD per slice
- Akutaq, Greenlandic ice cream, $8-$12 USD per serving
Drinks
- Kaffemik, a traditional Greenlandic coffee made with strong coffee and whipped cream, $5-$10 USD per cup
- Björk, a sweet and creamy liqueur made with cloudberry and other berries, $10-$15 USD per shot
- Tuborg, a popular Danish beer, $8-$12 USD per pint
- Seawater, a refreshing and sustainable beverage, free
- Tea, a soothing and warming drink made with herbal ingredients, $5-$10 USD per cup
Dining Customs
- It is customary to wait for the host to invite you to sit down before taking a seat
- Hands should be washed before and after meals
- Utensils are typically used, but it is also acceptable to eat with your hands
- Tipping is customary, with 10-15% of the total bill
- Reservations are recommended for high-end restaurants, especially during peak season
Where to Eat
- Restaurants, offering a range of traditional and modern dishes, $20-$50 USD per meal
- Cafes, serving coffee, pastries, and light meals, $10-$20 USD per meal
- Food stalls, offering street food and snacks, $5-$15 USD per serving
- Markets, providing fresh produce and local specialties, $10-$20 USD per item
- Food courts, offering a variety of international and traditional dishes, $15-$30 USD per meal
Food Markets & Food Experiences
- Nuuk Market, a bustling marketplace offering fresh produce, local specialties, and street food, located in the heart of Nuuk
- Sisimiut Food Festival, an annual festival celebrating Greenlandic cuisine and culture, held in the town of Sisimiut
- Ilulissat Icefjord Market, a unique market offering fresh seafood and local specialties, located near the Ilulissat Icefjord
- Tasiilaq Food Experience, a culinary tour offering traditional Greenlandic dishes and cooking classes, located in the town of Tasiilaq
- Kangerlussuaq Food Festival, an annual festival celebrating Greenlandic cuisine and culture, held in the town of Kangerlussuaq