Best Of Reykjavík: Best Newcomer Bar

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 Newcomer Bar

Veður

Klapparstígur 33

Although it’s been open for a bit longer than a lot of people realise, Veður has only come onto many peoples’ radar in the past few months. Well lit and nicely designed, this beautiful bar somehow manages to be both chic and laid-back at once. “The staff are super nice and the drinks are great. I go there all the time,” one panellist chimed in. “I like going there to drink prosecco and listen to new wave on Tuesday nights.” Sounds about right. Head on over to be casually classy, and look out for the cocktail happy hour.

Runner-Up:

Skál

Hlemmur

Another one of the stellar new stalls in the recently opened Hlemmur Mathöll, this bright and cheerful bar serves up fabulous cocktails, wines and beers in the bustling market environment. Sit right up at the bar and hang out with the staff, or find yourself a table and watch the endless parade of crazy at the city’s central bus hub. Cheers!

Runner-Up:

Marshall House Restaurant + Bar

Grandagarður 20

With three floors of art above your head and views out over the Grandi harbour to 101, The Marshall House Bar + Restaurant is a spacious hangout with fine wines, great cocktails, and pleasingly cultural vibe. If
you wanna get smashed in style, head on down.

Previous Winners

2017: Pablo Discobar

2016: Bryggjan Brugghús

2015: Mikkeller & Friends

2014: Húrra

2013: Kaldi

Other Drinking Categories

Best Bar For Live Music

Best Wine Place

Best Newcomer Bar

Best Smoking Area

Best Happy Hour

Best Place For Cocktails

Best Beer Selection

Best Place To Watch Sports

Best Place To Start The Night

Best Goddamn Bar

You can buy a copy of the full Best Of Reykjavík 2018 magazine—an essential guide to having fun in Reykjavík—here, posted worldwide. We also have a Special Offer double-pack that also includes our Best Of Iceland magazine, about places to eat, see, swim, shop and stay, all around the country, here.