Liston

Liston occupies a niche in Reykjavik's nightlife that is surprisingly underserved: a wine bar with genuine character, a well-curated drinks selection, and an atmosphere that favours conversation over volume. On Hverfisgata, one of the main streets running parallel to the busier Laugavegur, it offers an evening out that feels distinctly more grown-up than the typical Reykjavik bar experience.

The Drinks

The wine list is the centrepiece, and it is put together with care. European producers are well-represented alongside selected New World options, and there is enough range to satisfy both casual drinkers and those with more developed preferences. The staff know their list and can guide you to something interesting without resorting to the most expensive bottles.

The cocktail menu complements the wines rather than competing with them. Classics are made properly -- no shortcuts on spirits or technique -- and there are house creations that demonstrate the kind of thought and craftsmanship that elevates a good bar above a merely adequate one.

The Atmosphere

Liston gets the balance right between sophisticated and welcoming. The interior is well-designed without feeling cold or intimidating, and the lighting and music are calibrated for conversation rather than spectacle. It is the kind of place where you can settle in for the evening, working through a few glasses of wine and actually hearing what your companion is saying.

This positions it as a welcome alternative to Laugavegur's louder, more crowded bars. If you have reached the point in life where a good glass of wine in a pleasant room sounds more appealing than fighting for space at a packed bar, Liston is where you want to be.

The Location

Hverfisgata is one of Reykjavik's more interesting streets, home to galleries, restaurants, and a mix of old and new architecture. Liston fits naturally into this streetscape, and its location makes it easy to combine with dinner at one of the nearby restaurants or as a starting point before heading elsewhere.

Practical Tips

The bar opens from late afternoon, making it suitable for a pre-dinner drink or an entire evening. Weekend nights are busiest. The prices are at the higher end for Reykjavik, but this is the norm for quality wine bars. No reservations typically needed, but arriving earlier in the evening guarantees a comfortable seat.