Bastard Brew & Food
A beloved Reykjavik gastropub where craft beer, proper burgers, and a dartboard come together in one of downtown's most reliably good nights out.
There is a particular kind of bar that gets everything right without trying too hard, and Bastard Brew & Food is precisely that place. Tucked just off Laugavegur on a quiet side street, it combines an outstanding craft beer selection with genuinely good food and the kind of relaxed atmosphere that makes you want to stay for one more round.
The Beer
This is a serious beer bar. The tap selection rotates regularly and features a well-curated mix of Icelandic craft breweries and international favourites. Whether you are after a crisp pilsner, a hazy IPA, or something dark and complex, Bastard will have something to satisfy. The staff know their beers and are happy to offer guidance, which is particularly useful given that some of the Icelandic craft options may be unfamiliar.
The happy hour, running daily from 15:00 to 18:00, is one of the better deals in town. In a city where a pint can easily cost ISK 1,500 or more, the discounted prices here feel like a genuine gift.
The Food
The kitchen turns out gastropub food that consistently over-delivers. The burgers are thick, juicy, and properly assembled -- no towering architectural follies here, just well-seasoned patties with quality toppings on good buns. The wings are crispy and come in flavours that range from classic buffalo to more adventurous options. The ribs, when available, are tender and smoky.
Portions are generous, and the food arrives quickly enough that you will not be waiting hungrily while your beer gets warm. It is comfort food done with care, and it hits the spot every time.
The Atmosphere
The interior strikes a comfortable balance between pub and restaurant. The dartboard in the back adds a welcome element of competition, and on busier evenings the space hums with the kind of convivial noise that good pubs generate naturally. It is not a quiet date-night spot, but it is a superb place for friends, a post-sightseeing meal, or a long evening of beer tasting.
The Verdict
Bastard Brew & Food is the pub Reykjavik deserves. It takes its beer and food seriously without ever becoming pretentious, and the result is a place that locals return to week after week. For visitors, it is a reliable bet for good food, good drinks, and a genuinely good time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What kind of food does Bastard Brew & Food serve?
- The menu is gastropub fare at its best -- burgers, wings, ribs, nachos, and a selection of smaller sharing plates. The food is hearty, well-made, and designed to pair with the extensive beer selection.
- Does Bastard have a happy hour?
- Yes. Happy hour runs daily from 15:00 to 18:00, with discounted prices on draft beer and selected cocktails. It is one of the better happy hour deals in central Reykjavik.
- Is there a dartboard at Bastard?
- Yes. Bastard has a dartboard area that is free to use and popular with both locals and visitors. It adds a pleasantly old-school pub atmosphere to the venue.
- How is the craft beer selection?
- Excellent. Bastard takes its beer seriously, with a rotating selection of Icelandic and international craft beers on tap, plus a broad bottle list. The staff are knowledgeable and happy to recommend.
- Where is Bastard Brew & Food located?
- The gastropub is at Vegamotastigur 4 in downtown Reykjavik, just off Laugavegur. It is centrally located and easy to find.
- Do I need a reservation?
- Reservations are not essential but are a good idea for dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings. During the week, walk-ins are usually fine.
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