Words by

The Reykjavík Grapevine

Photo by

Art Bicnick

Joana Fontinha

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 Craft Bar

Skúli Craft Bar

Aðalstræti 9

“If we’re talking about a serious craft bar player, it’s Skúli. It’s Skúli,” the panel agrees. Serving both international and local beers, Skúli has been one of the forerunners of the craft beer culture on this island, and one of the local favourites for years. It’s here that you can find things like Lemon Tart White Ale and dark, chocolaty Imperial Stout, often on the same day.

Runner Up:

Lemmy

Austurstræti 20 

Photo by Art Bicnick

“Lemmy has pretty much any local beer you can think of. You can get everything,” one panellist declares. “But they don’t specialise in craft beers. It’s draft heaven.” Here’s a tip from us, ignore the bar at the entrance of Lemmy and head straight to the courtyard. There, you’re handed a pint glass and can choose from — last time we checked — over 50 taps. “It’s a mammoth line of self-serve drafts.”