Loa Bar Bistro

Loa Bar Bistro sits on the most famous street in Reykjavik and manages the trick of being both accessible to the constant flow of tourists along Laugavegur and genuinely appealing to locals. Part of the Center Hotels stable, it operates as a restaurant and bar that works at different speeds depending on the time of day -- relaxed bistro at lunch, proper dining at dinner, and a lively bar as the evening unfolds.

The Food

The kitchen serves contemporary Icelandic bistro food that draws on local ingredients and seasonal availability. Dishes are well-prepared without being overly complicated, and the portion sizes are appropriate for the price point. The menu offers enough variety to accommodate different dietary preferences, and there is a focus on quality that elevates it above the typical hotel restaurant experience.

Lunch is the best value, with simpler dishes at lower prices. Dinner becomes more polished and the prices rise accordingly, but the quality justifies the step up.

The Bar

The drinks offering is solid and well-considered. Icelandic craft beers feature alongside international wines and a cocktail menu that includes both classics and house specials. The daily happy hour from four to six in the afternoon draws a mix of locals and visitors, and provides an affordable entry point to Reykjavik's drinking scene.

The atmosphere is cosy and inviting -- warm lighting, comfortable seating, and enough space to have a conversation without shouting. On weekends it becomes livelier as the Laugavegur nightlife picks up, but it never reaches the overwhelming volume of some nearby bars.

The Location

Being on Laugavegur is both an advantage and a statement of intent. You cannot ask for a more central location in Reykjavik, and the street's endless parade of shops, restaurants, and bars means there is always something to do before or after your visit. The bistro benefits from passing foot traffic while offering a comfortable retreat from it.

Practical Tips

No reservations typically needed for the bar, but dinner reservations are advisable on weekends. Happy hour offers the best value for drinks. The bistro is open daily from 11:30, making it a practical option from lunch through to late evening.