My spouse and I both tried special meals in 2023 in Saga class. We're Jewish, not keeping strictly kosher, but we both avoid pork and shellfish and historical meals on Icelandair often include elements we don't choose to eat.

My kosher meal was pretty good in terms of taste and quality. The FA took great care to follow the particular rules printed on it, even though I told her I wasn't worried about seeing it wrapped. (More strictly religious people want to see the intact seal before they eat the food.) I got the sense she had never served a kosher meal before, so I think they're fairly rare. I was *also* given everything for the standard meal except the main course meaning I had way more food than I could eat. (I am a woman and don't have a big appetite, finding most airline meals sufficient-to-beyond my needs.)

DH tried both bland and fruit plate meals, I believe. Both were better for him than the standard Saga meal since a medical condition and picky tastes leave him avoiding many sauces and proteins.

Since we were offered the "extras" (salad, bread, etc.) from the standard meal as well as getting special meals, it seemed like we didn't lose out on much by electing the special one! With an allergy, especially if it is life threatening, you obviously might prefer to skip any extras, but it worked out well for us.