Best Of Reykjavík 2019: Best Bar To End The Night

There is one thing abundantly clear from our very scientific drinking research: craft beers and gastropubs have arrived in force. You can’t throw a stone without hitting someone washing down a dry-aged chilli burger with a local IPA. After a few stable years, Reykjavík’s bar scene seems to be shifting in general, with more wine, cocktails and fancy beers available than ever before. Some facts of life, however, remain the same: alcohol is expensive, but that doesn’t stop us from partying. Bottoms up, babe.

Best Place To End The Night

Kaffibarinn

Bergstaðastræti 1

This classic party place is still the late-night hangout of choice in 101 Reykjavík. The raucous local crowd is a mixture of Iceland’s fashion folks, artists, hipsters and intelligentsia—as seen in the KB “Barflies” photo book. “It’s a perfect meeting point where you can go for the dancefloor, space out in the back, or chat all night in the smoking area,” said the panel. “The staff are always genuinely nice to you, even if you’re pretty drunk. Everyone goes there. It’s the only place I’d go after putting a friend in drag and end up having my numerology done by a stranger.”

Runner-Up:

Kiki Queer Bar

Laugavegur 22

If you’re going out dancing, Kiki can’t be beat. With DJs playing pop classics and an energetic, disinhibited crowd, the panel enthused: “It’s so much fun! You can dance, hug your friends, kiss your spouse… you can let everything out and dance your ass off in a safe, welcoming environment.”

Runner-Up:

Ölstofan

Vegamótastígur

On the other end of the spectrum is the no-frills drinking room of Ölstofan. With low music, dim lighting, lots nooks to converse in and a big central bar, “It’s a no-bullshit place,” said the panel. “There’s an interesting older crowd, it’s always open late, and you can have a pint and chat without anyone bothering you.”

Previous Winners

2018: Prikið
2017: Kaffibarinn
2016: Húrra
2014-5: Paloma Basement

Other Drinking Categories

Best Bar To Start The Night

Best Bar To End The Night

Best Craft Bar

Best Wine Bar

Best Place For Cocktails

Best Sports Bar

Best Place For Live Music

Best Smoking Area

Best Happy Hour

Best Newcomer Bar

You can buy a copy of the full Best Of Reykjavík 2019 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.