Words by

The Reykjavík Grapevine and Jóhannes Bjarkason

Photo by

Art Bicnick

Best Wine Bar

Vínstúkan Tíu sopar

Laugavegur 27, 101 Reykjavík

Tucked away in the cellar of Laugavegur 27 is the eloquent Vínstúkan 10 Sopar. Vínstúkan has a wide selection of natural wines, as well as lavish French vintages. Offering not only great wine but greater customer service, Vínstúkan 10 Sopar claims the prize again as the best wine bar. If you’re not sure what you like, go ahead and ask the owner and head bartender Steinar for a recommendation. “I feel like I’m in safe hands whenever I’m there,” confessed a panellist. You can even snag a great deal on a full bottle, as Vínstúkan imports their own.  

Runner-up:

Aperó Vínbar

Laugavegur 20b, 101 Reykjavík

Photo by Art Bicnick

A Grapevine favourite, Aperó is a French-inspired wine bar, utilising the latest in wine technology to offer its patrons an exquisite experience. “It’s so cool what they do there. Each wine is stored in a specific closet, with a specific temperature,” one panellist reports. If you’re hungry, they also offer food that pairs well with your drink of choice. If you’re missing that continental European feel, go to Aperó.  

 

Runner-up:

Bódega

Týsgata 9, 101 Reykjavík

Photo by Joana Fontinha

Claiming the spot as the best bar for outdoor drinking, Bodega is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Laugavegur partying. “It’s a serious wine place,” a panellist said. And serious it is. Serving wine from all over the globe, Bodega is also a fantastic place for outdoor drinking, as per the panel’s deliberation. Don’t forget to have a little snack with your drink while you’re there.