It’s Friday! You’re in luck if you want to celebrate the weekend with a drink or two, as Reykjavík is filled with fun cocktail bars. And even though alcohol prices can be considered high, the city loves happy hour. In this article, we name some of our favourite bars. Let’s get this party started!
Apótek
Apótek is the Icelandic word for pharmacy, and you go there to get your “prescription cocktails”. The cocktail menu of this casual-smart bar is divided into tranquilizers, painkillers, stimulants and placebos. It’s one of the most popular bars to meet for drinks after work. They have happy hour every day between 15:00 and 18:00, during which all prescription cocktails, house wines and glasses of beer are half price.
Pablo Discobar
Pablo Discobar is a quirky, tacky cocktail bar with an old school and kitsch decor. They have happy hour between 16:00 and 18:00 every day, during which they have offers for all beer on tap, all wine and selected cocktails. And when happy hour is over, you can just head one floor down to Burro for delicious Latin tapas.
Slippbarinn
Slippbarinn is a bar loved by locals and tourists alike, located in four-star hotel Reykjavík Marina. While you wait for your drink, you get to taste a delicacy that is not for everyone – salted liquorice gourmet popcorn. They also serve amazing homemade lemonade with fresh mint that surely matches any of their alcohol-based cocktails. Happy hour is every day between 15:00 and 18:00.
Petersen svítan
Petersen svítan is the best rooftop bar in Reykjavík and has a stunning 360° view. It’s located on the third floor of Gamla bíó. On sunny days, you completely forget you are on an island located just under the artic circle, when the place gets that laidback beach club vibe. Their happy hour is between 16:00 and 20:00.
Sæta Svínið
Sæta Svínið has the “happiest happy hour in town,” at least, that’s what they say themselves. They mix the tastiest cocktails and offer a fun and casual atmosphere. They have happy hour every day between 15:00 and 18:00, during which cocktails, beers on tap and glasses of wine are half off. They also offer small dishes with happy hour prices.
MarBar
MarBar is a casual bar located in the harbour area of Reykjavík. They offer craft beers, local snaps and a good selection of cocktails. They have happy hour every day between 16:00 and 19:00. You will find a nice variety of bar snacks, but if you need something more filling, RIO Restaurant is directly connected to MarBar.
Bastard
Bastard Brew & Food is a new brewery and restaurant in downtown Reykjavík. They serve their own beers, as well as a good selection of beers from other Icelandic breweries. They also offer craft cocktails, gin and tonics, whiskey and cognac. On their food menu you will find different “bastards”, or signature burgers, and wraps, tacos, small courses and lunch specials. In the evenings and during weekends, lively music is played, from rock to funk and from soul to disco. Happy hour every day between 16:00 and 19:00.
Forréttabarinn
Forréttabarinn (Appetiser Bar) is perfect for an afternoon drink and a quick bite. They offer different small “Icelandic tapas” courses like smoked salmon, langoustine soup and mussels. They have happy hour every day between 16:00 and 19:00 during which draft beers and house wines are ISK 750.
