Best Of Reykjavík 2023: Best Place for Cocktails

Best Place for Cocktails

Jungle Cocktail Bar

Austurstræti 9, 101 Reykjavík

Although they don’t have the smash hit “Welcome to the Jungle” by Guns ‘n’ Roses on repeat, Jungle makes up for it with their complex, innovative and all-around great-tasting cocktails — the best in town, according to the panel. “There’s nothing that competes with Jungle. They’re constantly innovating, and they employ award-winning bartenders. What they’re doing, no one else is doing in Iceland,” said one panellist. Along with the work they put into their drinks, they also put a lot of effort into their names. Menu monikers like “Michael Scotch” and “Chamomile High Club” are sure to please your taste buds as well as your humour.

Runner-up:

Kokteilbarinn

Klapparstígur 28, 101 Reykjavík

When walking into Monkeys on Klapparstígur, you are given two choices. Either continue in to the restaurant, business as usual, or turn into Kokteilabarinn and have a seat in their train — destination: cocktail town. “At Monkeys, there’s a side bar. When you walk into it, suddenly you’re sitting in a train, drinking tasty cocktails,” reported one panellist. Serving award-winning cocktails by award-winning bartenders, Kokteilbarinn offers a serious experience for the initiated and the newbies alike.

Runner-up:

Uppi

Aðalstræti 12, 101 Reykjavík

This grandiose restaurant/bar on Aðalstræti has shown it’s a force to be reckoned with. Focusing on wine and lavish dining within its carefully curated interior, Uppi has also demonstrated its quality cocktails. Uppi also hosts all manner of events, from wine presentations to bingo nights. When you’re looking for that feeling of luxury, it’s a bar you must check out.

Previous Winners

2022: Jungle Cocktail Bar & Veður

2021: Jungle Cocktail Bar

2020: Miami