Abaco

Reykjavik's bar scene tends to favour beer halls and late-night cocktail joints, so the arrival of a proper wine bar was long overdue. Abaco fills that gap with understated confidence, offering a curated selection of natural wines in a space that feels more like a private living room than a downtown bar.

The Setting

The interior is small and deliberately moody -- exposed brick, candlelight, and a long wooden bar that invites you to sit and stay. There is no television, no thumping music, and no tourist-bait signage. This is a place designed for people who care about what is in their glass. Seating is limited, which adds to the sense of discovery; finding a free table on a Friday feels like a small victory.

The Wines

The wine list is the main event, and it does not disappoint. Abaco champions natural and biodynamic producers, with a rotating selection that changes frequently based on what is available. You might find a skin-contact orange wine from Georgia sitting alongside a crisp Muscadet from the Loire or a bold Nero d'Avola from Sicily. The staff know their wines and are happy to guide you, whether you are a seasoned oenophile or simply curious.

Prices are reasonable by Reykjavik standards, though "reasonable" in Iceland still means more than you would pay in most European capitals. By-the-glass options are generous, making it easy to taste widely without committing to full bottles.

The Food

The small plates menu is well judged -- charcuterie boards, quality cheeses, marinated olives, and a handful of seasonal dishes that change regularly. Nothing is trying to steal the spotlight from the wine, and that is exactly as it should be. If you are looking for a full dinner, eat elsewhere first and come here for the afterglow.

Worth Knowing

Abaco draws a mixed crowd of locals and in-the-know visitors. It is not the place for a rowdy night out, but rather for those evenings when you want something a little more civilised. The bar is closed Sunday and Monday, and closes relatively early on weeknights, so plan accordingly.

For wine lovers visiting Reykjavik, Abaco is an essential stop. It proves that Iceland's food and drink scene has matured well beyond the stereotype of brennivín and fermented shark.