Let’s not beat around the bush: Icelanders love to drink. In fact, there is probably nothing Icelanders like to do more than drink, which could very well be why this country doesn’t have a space program. 2019 was a big year in the downtown drinking scene, with some old favourites closing and some strong newcomers opening. Some facts of life, however, remained the same: alcohol is still expensive, but that doesn’t stop us from partying. How else would we have sex?
Best Newcomer Bar
Röntgen
Hverfisgata 12
![best newcomer bar](https://i0.wp.com/grapevine.is/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/rontgen_bic1910_by_art-bicnick.jpg?resize=606%2C404&quality=99&ssl=1)
Photo by Art Bicnick
Here we are—another unanimous winner! Since it opened but months ago, Röntgen has charmed the party-goers of Reykjavík. “They are doing something ambitious and fun. It looks great. It has good energy, good cocktails, and a great dance floor,” one panel member announced. This prompted a giggle out of another panelist. “Yes, I have done some stupid dancing there and it was always accepted.” It’s safe to say that there hasn’t been a bar that has so quickly found its audience, and we can’t wait to see what Röntgen gets up to.
Runner-Up:
Vínstúkan Tíu Sopar
Laugavegur 27
![tiu sopar](https://i0.wp.com/grapevine.is/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/tiu-sopar_bic1920_by_bicnick.jpg?resize=606%2C404&quality=99&ssl=1)
Photo by Art Bicnick
Every oenophile—wine connoisseur, for the uninitiated—knows that to truly appreciate wine, it’s imperative to find a quiet and undistracting environment. Vínstúkan Tíú Sopar is a cosy basement bar perfectly made for this. The menu is varied, the bartenders knowledgeable, and the location ideal for starting out a night, which made it an easy pick for runner-up.
Newcomer:
Jungle Cocktail Bar
Austurstræti 9
![best newcomer bar](https://i0.wp.com/grapevine.is/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/jungle_bic5180_by_bicnick.jpg?resize=606%2C815&quality=99&ssl=1)
Photo by Art Bicnick
Jungle is a back-to-basics mixology haven. Filled with cosy leather couches, the bar has already—in its short time—elevated the downtown cocktail scene with its unusual, innovative, and frankly delicious drinks. Stop by, take a seat, and prepare for some of the wildest mixes you’ll find in Reykjavík.
Previous Winners
2019: Luna Flórens & BrewDog
2018: Veður
2017: Pablo Discobar
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