Jazzy's
A lively bistro-bar in downtown Reykjavik serving Icelandic tapas in jars, colourful burgers, and creative cocktails, with a games room and dance floor upstairs.
Reykjavik is full of places that try to be several things at once and succeed at none of them. Jazzy's, tucked onto a side street between Laugavegur and Hverfisgata, is the rare exception: a restaurant-bar-games room combination that manages to pull off all three with genuine charm.
What to Expect
Jazzy's occupies a two-storey space on Klapparstígur, one of those narrow downtown streets that you could easily walk past without noticing. The ground floor is the restaurant and bar: warm lighting, a well-stocked cocktail bar, and tables set for dinner. The atmosphere is relaxed and sociable -- this is not a quiet, contemplative dining experience but rather the kind of place where conversation comes easily and strangers at neighbouring tables might end up chatting.
Upstairs, the vibe shifts entirely. Pool tables, foosball, darts, and a dance floor create a dedicated space for evening entertainment. As the restaurant service winds down and the cocktails take over, the upper floor becomes the main attraction, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights.
The Menu
The kitchen takes a creative approach to casual dining. The signature offering is Icelandic tapas, served in small jars -- a quirky presentation that works better than it sounds. Lamb, cod, beef, and seasonal vegetables are prepared with care and presented as shareable portions, designed to graze on alongside drinks.
The coloured burgers are the other conversation piece. Served on vividly dyed buns, they are visually striking and frequently photographed. Beneath the Instagram-friendly exterior, the burgers themselves are well-constructed: quality patties, fresh toppings, and proper seasoning. They are fun without being gimmicky, which is a difficult balance to strike.
Steaks and fish dishes round out the menu for those who want a more conventional dinner. The cocktail list is extensive and creative, blending classic recipes with house inventions that incorporate Icelandic spirits and botanicals.
The Social Angle
What sets Jazzy's apart from Reykjavik's other bistro-bars is the upstairs entertainment space. Having a pool table, darts, and foosball in the same building as a competent kitchen and cocktail bar means a group can eat, drink, and play without ever changing venue. For visitors organising a night out with mixed expectations -- some want dinner, some want games, some just want cocktails -- Jazzy's is the diplomatic solution.
Practical Tips
Klapparstígur is centrally located, running perpendicular to both Laugavegur and Hverfisgata. Finding Jazzy's requires a short detour off the main drag, but the side-street location means it avoids the worst of the tourist-trap energy that can affect some Laugavegur restaurants.
The restaurant opens at 17:00 daily, with food service running throughout the evening. For dinner, arriving between 18:00 and 20:00 is ideal. After 21:00, the balance tips from restaurant to bar, and the upstairs room comes alive.
No reservations are strictly necessary, though booking ahead for weekend dinners is sensible during the busy summer months. Walk-ins are usually accommodated.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the Icelandic tapas at Jazzy's?
- Jazzy's serves small Icelandic-inspired dishes in jars -- a signature presentation. These include lamb, cod, and other local ingredients prepared in creative ways. They are designed for sharing and pair well with the cocktail menu.
- What is upstairs at Jazzy's?
- The floor above the restaurant features a games room with a pool table, foosball, darts, and a dance floor. It transforms into more of a bar and party venue as the evening progresses.
- Is Jazzy's a restaurant or a bar?
- Both. Early in the evening it functions as a restaurant and bistro, with table service and a full dinner menu. As the night goes on, particularly on weekends, the emphasis shifts towards drinks, games, and socialising.
- What are the coloured burgers?
- Jazzy's is known for serving burgers with brightly coloured buns -- a visual signature that makes them instantly recognisable. The colours are mostly for fun; the burgers themselves are well-made and satisfying.
- Where is Jazzy's located?
- At Klapparstígur 38, a side street running between Laugavegur and Hverfisgata in the heart of downtown Reykjavik. It is within easy walking distance of all central hotels and guesthouses.
- Is Jazzy's good for a group night out?
- Excellent. The combination of dinner, cocktails, and the upstairs games room makes Jazzy's one of the better options for a group evening in Reykjavik, particularly if your group wants variety without moving between venues.
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