Lebowski Bar
A Big Lebowski-themed bar on Laugavegur with 24 varieties of White Russian, movie-inspired burgers, and the kind of late-night energy that makes Reykjavik's weekend scene legendary.
The Dude abides, and apparently he abides on Laugavegur 20a. Lebowski Bar has been channelling the spirit of the Coen Brothers' 1998 cult classic since 2012, and it does so with a commitment that is either admirable or slightly unhinged, depending on your perspective. Either way, it is one of Reykjavik's most distinctive bars, and the burgers are genuinely good.
The Drinks
The headline act is the White Russian menu. Twenty-four variations on the cocktail that Jeff Bridges made iconic, ranging from the faithful original to inventions that Jeff Lebowski himself might raise an eyebrow at. The Cocaucasian -- a classic White Russian crowned with Cocoa Puffs -- is the signature and tastes better than it has any right to. The bartenders know their way around the shaker, and even the more experimental options are well-balanced.
Beyond the White Russians, there is a solid beer selection and a happy hour that runs daily from four to seven. By Reykjavik standards, the happy hour prices are genuinely reasonable.
The Food
The burgers are named after characters from the film and are sized accordingly -- generous, messy, and satisfying. The meat is good, the buns hold together, and the toppings are applied with enthusiasm. It is American diner food done well, which is exactly what the setting demands. There are also nachos, wings, and other bar staples that do the job without pretending to be anything they are not.
The Setting
The interior is divided into four themed areas: a bowling alley, a southern porch, a 1950s diner, and a 1960s lounge bar. The commitment to the aesthetic is thorough without being oppressive. Movie quotes adorn the walls. The soundtrack is era-appropriate. On a quiet afternoon, it is a comfortable place to eat a burger and watch the world go by through the Laugavegur windows. On a Friday night, it is a different beast entirely -- loud, crowded, and fuelled by White Russians.
Practical Tips
Come during the day for food and a relaxed atmosphere. Come on Friday or Saturday night for the full Reykjavik weekend experience, bearing in mind that the bar stays open until 04:30 and the energy rises accordingly. Happy hour is the best value. If you are a fan of the film, this is a pilgrimage. If you are not, it is still a good bar with good burgers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Lebowski Bar?
- A bar and restaurant themed entirely around the Coen Brothers film The Big Lebowski. Opened in 2012, it features themed decor, character-named burgers, and 24 different White Russian cocktails.
- How many White Russians are there?
- Twenty-four varieties, including the signature Cocaucasian -- a classic White Russian topped with Cocoa Puffs. The menu ranges from the traditional to the genuinely creative.
- What food does Lebowski Bar serve?
- American diner-style food with an emphasis on burgers, all named after characters from the film. The portions are generous and the quality is solid.
- What are the opening hours?
- Monday to Thursday 11:00-01:00, Friday and Saturday 11:00-04:30, Sunday 11:00-01:00. Happy hour runs daily from 16:00-19:00.
- Is Lebowski Bar good for nightlife?
- Yes. On Friday and Saturday nights it transforms from a restaurant into one of Laugavegur's liveliest bars, open until 04:30. Expect crowds, noise, and energy.
- Do I need to have seen the film?
- It helps. The references are everywhere -- in the decor, the menu, and the general atmosphere. But even without that context, it is a fun bar with good burgers and creative cocktails.
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