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 Wine Bar
Vínstúkan 10 Sopar
Laugavegur 27
“Nobody can compete with Vínstúkan,” states the panel verdict. The cosy basement bar keeps up with the times, continually introducing adventurous wines to an island with no wines of its own. You’ll find bottles you won’t get at Vínbuðín, from Slovakian Pet Nat to fuzzy Italian bubbles. Just tell the friendly staff what you like, and they’ll recommend something you’ll be dreaming about for days. Don’t miss the food pairings either.
Runner Up:
Port 9
Veghúsastígur 9a
Port 9 has been around long enough to earn the title of “incredibly good wine bar,” in one panellist’s words. Tucked slightly away from the buzz of 101 but still at the heart of it, it offers an impressive wine selection and regular tastings. In recent years, it has also expanded its events programme with poetry nights, concerts, and even exhibitions. In the summer, grab a drink or two on the balcony. You might forget you’re in Iceland at all.
Runner Up:
Uppi
Aðalstræti 12
Located upstairs from the Fish Market, Uppi’s game is above your average wine bar. Just a first glance at its sleek interior is enough to see that they know what they’re doing. Praised for its upscale atmosphere and good vibes, Uppi is primarily a wine bar — and a good one at that — though they also offer cocktails and even Tuborg on draft.
Previous Winners:
2025: Vínstúkan 10 Sopar
2024: Vínstúkan 10 Sopar
2023: Vínstúkan 10 Sopar
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