Best Of Reykjavík 2019: Best Smoking Area

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 Smoking Area

Boston

Laugavegur 28b

In the winter season, a good smoking area is all about being sheltered from the elements. Here, Boston excels—the vast balcony smoking area is totally covered, with heaters and sofas, like a smokers’ paradise. “It’s super well heated,” smiled the smokers on the panel. “It’s like a summer house.” One aesthete remarked: “I really like the interior—if they would paint the smoking area black to match, I’d be even happier.” Due to the tented design, the ventilation perhaps isn’t the best, but hey, at least you won’t freeze your lips off when you’re trying to have a fag.

Runner-Up:

Hressó

Austurstræti 20

With a massive, well-ventilated tent area featuring picnic tables, ashtrays and countless heaters, you might well forget you’re outside at all when you go for a cigarette at Hressó. Smoke your face off and get lost in your conversation without feeling like you’re in the arctic—and rejoice!

Runner-Up:

Kaffibarinn

address (h6)

Kaffibarinn’s tiny, unassuming smoking area is one of the best you’ll find for conversation. “It only seats seven asses, and it’s a total bottleneck,” said the panel. “People huddle like penguins in the arctic—that’s how we Icelanders get through the winter. But that’s where some of my most fascinating 3 a.m. situations have happened.”

Previous Winners

2018: Boston
2017: Hressó

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.