Karolina Craft Bar & Cafe
A laid-back craft beer bar on Posthusstraeti serving a wide selection of Icelandic microbrews alongside oven-baked sourdough pizzas in a relaxed, sociable atmosphere.
Iceland's craft beer scene has grown remarkably in recent years, and Karolina Craft Bar and Cafe on Posthusstraeti is one of the best places in Reykjavik to explore it. Part pub, part pizzeria, and entirely unpretentious, it occupies a comfortable middle ground between the city's high-end cocktail bars and its more boisterous nightlife venues.
The Beer
The tap list at Karolina reads like a tour of Iceland's microbrewery landscape. Pale ales, IPAs, stouts, and seasonal specials from Icelandic producers feature prominently, and the selection rotates frequently enough that repeat visits are rewarded with something new. The bartenders know their stock and are happy to recommend or pour tasters if you are unsure where to start.
For those who have spent their trip drinking Gull and Viking -- Iceland's ubiquitous lagers -- Karolina is the place where you discover what the country is actually capable of brewing. The difference is immediately apparent and thoroughly enjoyable.
The Pizza
The sourdough pizzas are not an afterthought. Baked in a proper oven and generously topped, they are among the better pub pizzas you will find in Reykjavik. The dough has a satisfying chew and slight tang from the sourdough, and the toppings are fresh rather than out of a packet. A pizza and two craft beers make for a thoroughly enjoyable and relatively affordable evening.
The Atmosphere
Karolina has the feel of a neighbourhood pub that happens to be in the tourist centre. The crowd is a mix of locals and visitors, the music is present but not overwhelming, and the staff are friendly without being overbearing. Screens show live sports for those who want them, but the volume stays reasonable enough for conversation. It is the kind of bar where you plan to stay for one beer and end up staying for three.
When to Visit
Afternoons are quiet and pleasant for a post-sightseeing beer. Evenings bring more energy, particularly at weekends when the bar fills with both locals starting their night out and tourists winding down theirs. The happy hour, common to almost every Reykjavik bar, makes the already reasonable craft beer prices even more attractive.
Karolina does not demand attention or make grand promises. It simply delivers good beer, decent pizza, and a welcoming atmosphere -- which, in Reykjavik, is exactly the formula for a memorable evening.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What beers does Karolina Craft Bar serve?
- Karolina offers an extensive selection of Icelandic craft beers on tap and in bottles, featuring breweries from across Iceland. They also serve cocktails, wine, and non-alcoholic options.
- Does Karolina serve food?
- Yes. Karolina serves oven-baked sourdough pizzas that pair well with the beer selection. The pizzas are generously topped and represent good value for the city centre.
- Does Karolina have a happy hour?
- Yes. Like many Reykjavik bars, Karolina offers a daily happy hour with reduced prices on draft beer and selected drinks. Check their website or ask at the bar for current happy hour times.
- Where is Karolina Craft Bar located?
- Karolina is at Posthusstraeti 9, in the heart of downtown Reykjavik. It is a short walk from Austurvollur square and the main shopping streets.
- Is Karolina good for watching sports?
- Yes. Karolina has screens showing live sports and the relaxed pub atmosphere makes it a comfortable place to watch a match while enjoying a craft beer.
- What are the opening hours of Karolina Craft Bar?
- Karolina is open daily from 14:00 to 01:00. It works well as an afternoon beer stop, a casual dinner spot, or a late-evening destination.
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