A stylish guide to after-work drinks in Reykjavik

Reykjavík has long been heralded as the Nordic capital for nightlife and a resting place for nature travellers. In recent years, as grabbing after-work drinks with friends and colleagues has become an important part of our culture, the city’s offering of bars and restaurants has boomed. Natural wine, craft beers and hand-crafted cocktails can be found on (nearly) every corner.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet setting to catch up with friends over a glass of bubbles and a light bite, craft beer and a hearty meal, or perhaps a charming bar with fancy cocktails, these are the best spots to visit for after work drinks in Iceland’s capital.

Apotek is one of the city’s most beloved pit-stops for an after work tipple. Not only does it offer a generous wine chart, the views are equally as delicious; it’s the most stylish abode in Reykjavik. As an ode to the building’s heritage as a pharmacy, the restaurant hosts a lively cocktail bar in the lobby where mixologists shake prescription-themed cocktails with soothing ingredients. And if you’re up for it, you can even enjoy a cocktail masterclass with colleagues.

The establishment is best known for its themed cocktails but don’t forget about the restaurant. Influenced by Icelandic and European cuisine and Argentinian grilling, Apotek kitchen offers both an impressive menu of sharing food - with exquisite artisanal presentation - and a 12-page wine menu, perfect for an after work catch-up. be sure to book online in advance.

Austurstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík

Reykjavik’s Röntgen Bar brims with warm candlelight and an infectious pulse of chatter, creating a culinary experience that extends beyond the taste buds. Groups of friends and colleagues gather round intimate circular tables drinking local beer during the first half of the week. Wednesday’s are for impromptu karaoke sessions or a crafty pub quiz. When the weekend (finally) rolls around, linger at the bar with a hand-crafted cocktail in hand. A great chance to let loose with your favourite coworkers and shake the work blues away to live music.

Their selection of gin cocktails are a delight to the tastebuds and always come beautifully garnished with flamed rosemary, juniper berries and orange peel. For a real treat, order Monkey Business or try the cocktail of the week. Röntgen is no doubt an inclusive and popular go-to, and with tables spread over two floors, there’s always room for whoever passes by.

Hverfisgata 12, 101 Reykjavik

Vínstúkan Tíu is a renowned unmissable gem and it’s easy to see why. Located in the northern part of the city, this casual bar is a haven of urban charm, serving natural wines and tasteful nibbles. Transport your tastebuds south with a charcuterie board and tapas, or bathe your palette the fresh flavours of traditional Icelandic cuisine. Whatever takes your fancy, a sommelier will be on hand to help you and your friends find the best wine to match. The wine chart is comprehensive, offering a myriad of organic, well-balanced bottles hand-picked from across the globe. A trip to Vínstúkan Tíu is a real treat and a great place to unwind with friends after a long day of work.

Laugavegur 27, 101 Reykjavik

Snaps Bistro Bar is another perennial favourite for after work drinks. As the name suggests, the eatery feels quintessentially Parisian, decorated with marble accents, bistro chairs, hanging plants and a piano. The wall-to-ceiling glass window creates a perfect oasis for cocktail sipping during sundown, come rain or shine.

Order one of their award-winning appetising dishes, from a warming french onion soup to Danish inspired seasonal fish dishes, and pick a cocktail from their carefully crafted gin menu - the Marberg is a rumoured favourite.

Þórsgata 1, 101 Reykjavík

If you’re looking for an intimate yet lively nook to unwind after work, look no further. Perched on a vibrant harbour in Grandi, the city’s cultural hub, The Coocoo’s Nest is a family-run business that’s quickly becoming a local favourite.

With an Icelandic and Californian heritage and close ties to Italian cuisine, the restaurant offers a varying menu which differs based on the day and time of your visit. Indulge in sourdough pizza and natural Italian wine from Wednesday through to Saturday, from mid-afternoon until late - a favourite menu amongst locals. Natural earthy interior permeates the space, as does a homely ambiance, creating an idyllic place to nestle after work with colleagues, friends or a special someone. And on a summer’s evening, finish your post-work drink by taking a sunset stroll across the harbour.

Grandagardur 23, 101, Reykjavík

Just around the corner from The Coocoo’s Nest is one of their sister companies, Luna Flórens, a promising new addition to Reykjavik’s cafe scene. If you’re into holistic living and find yourself in the mood for something a little quieter, this is the place for you.

Before you take a seat and lean back into a wicker lounge chair, browse wild flowers, tarot cards and crystals in the bar’s in-house boutique. And as you sip on classic cocktails - many of which are imbued with a floral twist - admire the counter of artisanal vegan goods (the cakes are almost painterly) as well as the flowers and artworks that furnish the room.

Garðastræti 6, 101 Reykjavík

Skál, meaning ‘cheers’ in Icelandic, is a name that couldn’t be more apt. After winning a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2019 and being featured in the Michelin guide the same year, locals and visitors flock to the food hall at Hlemmur to try Skál’s offering of new Nordic cuisine. Using fresh local produce, each dish is carefully curated with flavour and style, especially the Icelandic scallops and beef tartar. The lemon merrugine crumble is the creme de la creme, a perfect mouthful of sweetness for sharing with a friend. It goes without saying but the food is high-quality, so is the natural wine and craft beer. The interior, on the other hand, is minimal, humble and very Scandinavian.

Laugavegur 107, 101 Reykjavik

If you’re feeling beaten by the Icelandic weather, take refuge in Jungle for a tropical evening of tasteful delights. Green plants hant elegantly from high ceilings while tiled flooring, low-slung sofas and trinket-filled cabinets line the room. In the corner sits a piano, perfect for live music, and somewhere hidden amongst the greenery is a DJ deck for weekend techo jams. There’s something elegant yet hip about the space and the drinks are no exception. Jungle specialises in cocktails, crafted with colourful ingredients. Pisco Pogo and Skógarberid Húgó are both winners so be sure to try them during happy hour. Craft beer, wine and soda are also up for grabs. Jungle operates on a first-come-first-serve basis and doesn’t take bookings so be sure to swing by before nightfall.

Austurstræti 9 (second floor), 101 Reykjavik

Veður, meaning ‘weather’ in Icelandic, is where the locals flock to shelter with a warming drink. Rumor has it that it’s one of the favourite go-tos. Over a coffee, draft beer or charcuterie board, there’s a warming camaraderie between diners and a wholesome atmosphere on both floors. There’s also something atmospheric about the floor-to-window ceilings and minimalist interior, idyllic for a cosy weekday evening with friends. To brighten up your palate after a long day, Vedur’s cocktails are a must.

Klapparstígur 33, 101 Reykjavik