Words by

The Reykjavík Grapevine

Photo by

Art Bicnick

The Norse god Óðinn obtained the mead of the poetry from the giants and shared it with those seeking divine connection. Sounds familiar, right? We’ve all had those kinds of nights here in Reykjavík. Now, you can too. Whether it’s cocktails, a wine bar, a date spot, or a happy hour beer, we have filtered the seemingly unlimited options here to give you the best chances of building that time-honoured experience that fermentation allows.

Our extremely mortal panel of drinkers has inspected the local bars and watering holes and given their honest, exuberant opinions on the best bars in Reykjavik. All factors were considered, from atmosphere and interior design to bathroom availability and customer satisfaction.

If you’re seeking wisdom, camaraderie, or just want to get your drink on, these are the establishments our panel recommends.

Best Bar To Start The Night

12 Tónar (Joint Winner) 

Skólavörðustígur 15

Photo by Art Bicnick

12 Tónar is where every cool kid in Reykjavík is bound to start their Saturday night. “It’s a cosy vibe. No fuss,” one panellist said. Combining experimental (and always great) DJs with a solid smattering of beers, 12 Tónar’s two floors and plentiful seating make any partier feel like they’re at a giant house party. Is there any better place to start the night than that?

Bingó Drinkery (Joint winner) 

Skólavörðustígur 8

Photo by Art Bicnick

“It’s fucking nice to start the night at Bingó,” one panellist offered as emphatic rationale for Bingó taking home the title. Decorated with an array of thrifted trinkets, Bingó’s interior makes you feel like you’re in an Icelandic summerhouse. Whether you love a game of darts, like to stare down at Skólavörðustígur and people watch, or are a fan of a great Negroni, Bingó has it all.

Runner Up:

Bíó Paradís

Hverfisgata 54

Photo by Art Bicnick

Popcorn and beer are a great combo, and for that, you can start your night at Reykjavík’s hottest arthouse cinema, Bíó Paradís. There’s always an exciting buzz inside Bíó Paradís, especially on Friday nights as their weekly “Party Screenings” take place. Now, with their recently opened cocktail bar Regnboginn (named for the original cinema that preceded Bíó Paradís), you can indulge in the equally great combo of popcorn and a martini.