Kaldi Bar/Café — Restaurant in Reykjavik

This was a phenomenal bar in the heart Reykjavik that serves a incredible variety of gins from around the world as well as beers from the Kaldi brewery in Iceland.

We were fortunate enough to come a couple times during the last days of our stay and see how popular it is among the locals. We got to meet the owner (George) and one of his star waitresses (Christine) as they opened up on our first time there.

They are great conversationalist when time permits and are very knowledgeable about the subtle differences among all of their gins as well as the accompanying tonic waters. Christine die a great job pairing the two based on our tastes and preferences. On our second visit the bar was packed and the waitresses were slammed yet Christine still recognized us and took the time to walk us through what our order would be that day. The cost of cocktails are in the same range as NYC cocktail prices (~$19.)

There is plenty of nooks and crannies to sit alone or with a group with a piano in the center of the bar just waiting for an avid pianist to put on a show. It was great to see the local color and how well loved supported this bar is. We were unable to come back again later in the evening but we're told it can be quite lively.

The bar and bathrooms were spotless as you would expect in a high quality establishment.

If you're in town looking for a great cocktail with a dope atmosphere I can't recommend this Kaldi's bar enough.

Be mindful they don't serve food so be sure to check some of the other delicious restaurants within...

You know those places where you walk in and feel welcome and like people are happy to provide a service, serving you a yummy, tasty, make-you-feel-happy drink? THIS IS NOT ONE OF THEM! Walked in 15 min before happy hour. Went up to the bartender to ask about the happy hour prices and if they had any IPAs. Got a very low volume response I could barely understand. I figured maybe I’d ask questions. The bartender very condescendingly said “yes I just told you that. ” I can say he nicely served us tastings of the 3 ipas after the one we wanted was out. When I finally ordered two of the IPA I liked best, the cost was way above what we expected from a happy hour menu. When I asked about it he said. I. Literally. Said. This. Twice. (Periods there for emphasis on his surly non welcoming attitude) The happy hour price is not for the IPAs. We paid for the beers but my date got in a bad mood because the bartender was being an A-hole.

So it’s a coolish bar. (There are cooler bars in Reykjavik) and they serve beer (other bars serve beer in Reykjavik). Save yourself a time with a bartender with a bad attitude and go across the street to Vedur where the bartenders are actually nice and happy to talk to you.

My two cents....

Kaldi Bar/Café (Gin Bar)

Kaldi Bar/Café is a must-visit for gin lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike. Their craft gin cocktails are nothing short of amazing, each with a unique twist that sets them apart. The mixologists here are true artists, blending flavors with a magic-like precision to create one-of-a-kind drinks that leave a lasting impression. With over 100 different gins to choose from, this is the perfect spot for any gin aficionado to explore and enjoy.

The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it an ideal cozy date spot. The rustic brick and stone masonry add to the charm, creating a uniquely intimate setting that feels both relaxed and stylish. Whether you’re trying a classic gin cocktail or one of their more adventurous creations, the care and creativity that go into each drink are evident.

For anyone looking for a place that combines exceptional cocktails with a cozy, charming ambiance, Kaldi Bar/Café is highly...