There is one thing abundantly clear from our very scientific drinking research, Hverfisgata is one hot little street right now. After getting massive internal road surgery a couple of years ago, it has come out thriving with a great bunch of watering holes from the casual to the swanky. Reykjavík’s bar scene seems to be shifting towards the latter in general, and the formerly beloved dive-bar trend looks like it’s taking a disco nap. Some facts of life remain the same: alcohol is expensive and that doesn’t stop us from partying. Bottoms up, babe.
Best Place To Start The Night
Mat Bar
Hverfisgata 26
This tapas place and fancy-feeling drinking hole has been an instant hit. The decor has a shiny-and-new feeling, with black and white tiles and a solid marble bar—a sharp contrast to Reykjavík’s omnipresent and somewhat tired reclaimed wood, fur and bric-a-brac interior design trend. “The cocktails are excellent,” said the panel. “Try the basil gobernador—it’s like a health drink that also gets you wasted.” Whether you’re shaking off a rough day at work, snacking with a date, or starting a night out, the panel says “You’ll always walk out with a smile on your face.”
Runner-Up:
Bar Ananas
Klapparstígur 38
This cool tiki beach-themed bar in the middle of town is known for its sunset-lit, quirky, tropical atmosphere, chill environment and delicious cocktails. It never stays open past 3am, so it’s pretty much always a place to kick things off, and it gives the illusion of warmth that the Icelandic winter needs.
Runner-Up:
Kaffi Vínyl
Hverfisgata 76
A lovely vegan café and bar is located in the former site of the infamous never-open-shoe-store, Bónus Skór. “It’s really comfortable, and the music is great—you never know what you’re gonna get.” You can even choose the records, or pick up a Bónus Plötur 7” released on the cafés own micro-label.
Previous Winners
2017: KEX Hostel
2016: KEX Hostel
2015: Loft Hostel
2014: Kaldi Bar
2013: Slippbarinn
Other Drinking Categories
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