Drinking

Tryggvagata 22

Without going into the details, Húrra closed a few years ago, was replaced by a different bar, and then opened again under the same brand. It was the go-to for exciting shows, weekday night outs, and dancing until the break of dawn. Now, it has regained its spot as the best bar for live music. “It’s truly the spot where most good things happen in music,” one panellist said. Húrra makes room for chart-topping artists and new voices, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience. Not to mention being musician-friendly, as Húrra boasts one of the best backlines in town.

Austurstræti 9

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.

Kokteilbarinn

Klapparstígur 28

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.

Uppi

Aðalstræti 12

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 (RIP)

Gaukurinn

Tryggvagata 22

A true legend of a place that has stood the test of time, Gaukurinn has a jam-packed schedule every month. Concerts, stand-ups, drag shows and karaoke nights all have their place at Gaukurinn. It’s shown they’re open to almost anything and their policy of inclusivity deserves a mention. The bar has long since implemented gender-neutral bathrooms, delivering a “No Bullshit” policy towards bigots, and is known for its willingness to accommodate everyone.

12 Tónar

Skólavörðustígur 15

Having claimed their spot as the best bar to start the night, the panel couldn’t get away without giving 12 Tónar a nod towards their efforts to support the live music scene. Owners Lárus and Einar have a knack for booking exciting bands and DJs at their store. Although the space isn’t built for live music, the collaborations 12 Tónar undertakes with musicians makes it feel like an extraordinary venue.

Previous Winners