COCKTAIL BARS REYKJAVÍK

KOL Restaurant is a contemporary charcoal-grilled steakhouse in central Reykjavík's Skólavörðustígur area, renowned for its ambitious cocktail program that ranks among Iceland's finest. The bar features craft cocktails created from premium ingredients, with bartenders crafting house-made syrups and infusing their own spirits to avoid artificial flavors and colors. The restaurant combines Icelandic and international fusion cuisine with warm modern design accents, including furniture by designer Tom Dixon. The location near major attractions like Laugavegur Street makes advance reservations recommended.

The Lobby Bar at The Reykjavik EDITION is a dynamic social gathering space located in the hotel's heart, part of the comprehensive bar and dining experience in downtown Reykjavík by the Old Harbour. The bar evokes chic après-ski vibes with an open-flame fireplace at its center, surrounded by velvet armchairs set on oak and ash wood floors. It serves locally produced craft beers, specialty cocktails with an Icelandic twist, and wine by the glass, alongside a carefully selected snack menu. The location offers proximity to Laugavegur Street and the Harpa Concert and Conference Center.

Tölt Cocktail Bar at The Reykjavik EDITION is a hidden sanctuary designed as a cozy escape on the ground floor, named after the distinctive fourth gait of Icelandic horses. The bar features a revitalized cocktail menu inspired by Icelandic culture and local ingredients, created under the direction of Head Bartender Nicolo Aversa. Soft lighting and stylish decor enhance the ambiance, with live music and themed nights adding to the experience. The bar offers stunning waterfront views and an exclusive line of in-house distilled spirits alongside specialty cocktails.

Drykk Bar occupies a distinctive position within Pósthús Food Hall in Reykjavík's downtown, offering sophisticated cocktails alongside access to diverse culinary options within the shared venue. Skilled mixologists craft handcrafted drinks using local Icelandic ingredients alongside international classics, including signature creations alongside established cocktails like Johnny's Back. The bar's character is enhanced by a semi-private seating area and glass roof that creates an inviting atmosphere despite its location within the bustling food hall environment. Operating daily from 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM, the venue captures the spirit of contemporary Icelandic nightlife by combining accessible location, high-quality mixology, and the flexibility of complementary food options available throughout the food hall.

Hotel Holt Gallery Bar is an iconic art-centered cocktail venue in downtown Reykjavík, featured in The New York Times as one of the city's coolest bars. Operating since 1965, it was conceived as a gathering place for artists, writers, and travelers. The bar features plush leather armchairs, Persian rugs, and walls adorned with portrait sketches by Kjarval, Iceland's most beloved artist, creating a sumptuous and culturally rich atmosphere. An extensive wine cellar with 4,000 bottles complements a carefully curated cocktail program and selection of beers. A distinctive fireplace provides an inviting spot during Reykjavík's long evenings.

Jungle Cocktail Bar is a vibrant second-floor venue in downtown Reykjavík that opened in 2019 when five talented Icelandic bartenders joined forces. Designed as a lush tropical oasis, it features statement wallpaper and hanging greenery, creating a distinctive atmosphere. The bar serves creative, expertly crafted cocktails ranging from simple highballs to elegant coupettes, with touches of tiki styling and a strong non-alcoholic program. Operating daily from 4 PM to 1 AM with no reservations required, happy hour runs from 4 to 6 PM every day.

Kokteilbarinn, meaning simply "the Cocktail Bar," is one of Reykjavík's premier cocktail destinations located in the lively Miðborg area. The bar is renowned for expertly crafted cocktails blending unique Icelandic ingredients with classic mixology techniques, including standout drinks like the Pink 75 and Rumble in the Rainforest. A notable feature is the iconic champagne train, evoking 1920s glamour. The bar's multi-awarded staff is celebrated for exquisite craftsmanship, and eclectic decor combines contemporary design with cozy elements, offering both intimate nooks and communal seating for varied occasions.

Slippbarinn, established in 2012, was Reykjavík's first craft cocktail bar and remains a centerpiece of the city's cocktail culture. Located in the historic Berjaya Reykjavík Marina on the Old Harbour, the vintage-cool venue is run by master mixologists creating dapper cocktails from fresh, local ingredients and house-made syrups. The bartenders distill and mix everything from scratch without relying on ready-made liqueurs or bitters. The bar features an extensive selection including Icelandic craft beers on tap, varied wines, and ten different rums, with food emphasizing fresh ingredients and bold presentation.