From Iceland — Best Of Reykjavík Drinking 2020: Best Place To Start The Night

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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 Place To Start The Night

Veður

Klapparstígur 33

For the second time in a row, Veður has snatched up the Best Place To Start The Night gold medal. And for good reason. This charming, low-key, hole-in-the-wall serves up some great cocktails and a dedicated crowd that grabbed each member of the panel’s heart. “There’s something casual about Veður in that you feel fine relaxing and chatting but it’s still a nice and sophisticated bar,” one panellist explained. “But that said, the first time I went they were playing a new wave punk playlist, so it’s not your average quiet cocktail bar.”

Runner-Up:

Loft

Bankastræti 7

“Loft is perfectly situated between the two areas of downtown and their Happy Hour lasts until 21:00,” one panel member raved. “Their service is also great, and their balcony is fantastic in the summer.” It’s no wonder the hostel’s cosy bar has a cult following. Go there on weeknights for a plethora of events including karaoke, watercolouring, and speed dating.

Runner-Up:

Miami

Hverfisgata 33

Miami has a lot going for it—an amazing interior, delicious cocktails, and a relaxed atmosphere early in the night that’s very conducive for chill convos and bonding. “It’s a good vibe in the early evening,” one panellist raved. “Also, it’s a well-done novelty bar. I love that.”