MarBar
A harbour-front cocktail bar with striking jellyfish-inspired decor, craft beers, and daily happy hour in the old harbour district of Reykjavik.
The old harbour area of Reykjavik has evolved from a working fishermen's quarter into one of the city's most atmospheric drinking and dining districts, and MarBar is one of the establishments that makes the area worth the walk. Housed in Hafnarbúðir -- the historic harbour buildings that once stored fishing equipment and supplies -- it brings a touch of style to a setting steeped in maritime history.
The Space
The first thing you notice at MarBar is the jellyfish. The interior design takes the graceful marine creature as its motif, and the effect is surprisingly elegant. Illuminated jellyfish installations drift across the ceiling, the lighting shifts through oceanic blues and purples, and the overall impression is of drinking underwater -- in a good way.
It could easily tip into kitsch, but the execution is restrained enough to work. The designers knew when to stop, and the result is a bar that has a distinctive visual identity without becoming a theme park.
The Drinks
Craft beer, cocktails, and a reasonable wine selection form the core of the offering. The cocktail list shows creativity and competence in equal measure, with several house specialties that lean into the maritime theme without becoming gimmicky. The craft beer selection rotates and typically includes several Icelandic microbrewery offerings.
Happy hour runs daily from 16:00 to 19:00, and in a city where a single pint can cost the equivalent of eight euros, this is not a detail to overlook. Timing your arrival for 16:00 and making the most of the discounted prices is a smart move.
The Location
The harbour setting is a genuine asset. Stepping out of MarBar into the salty air of the old harbour, with fishing boats bobbing at their moorings and the mountains visible across the bay, is a lovely counterpoint to the bars and nightlife of Laugavegur. The area is home to several good restaurants, whale-watching tour operators, and the occasional seal popping its head above the water.
Who Should Go
MarBar suits anyone looking for a drink in atmospheric surroundings without the pretension of the city's fancier cocktail bars or the chaos of the Laugavegur strip. It is particularly good for the golden window of happy hour, and the harbour-district location makes it a natural stop before or after dinner at one of the neighbouring restaurants.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is MarBar?
- MarBar is a cocktail and craft beer bar located in Hafnarbúðir by the old harbour. It is part of the RIO Reykjavik group and is known for its striking jellyfish-inspired interior design.
- Does MarBar serve food?
- MarBar is primarily a drinking establishment. Light bar snacks may be available, but for a full meal, the nearby RIO restaurant and other harbour-area restaurants are better options.
- What is happy hour at MarBar?
- Happy hour runs daily from 16:00 to 19:00, with discounted beer, wine, and cocktails. Given Reykjavik's drink prices, this is well worth timing your visit around.
- Where is MarBar?
- MarBar is in Hafnarbúðir, the historic harbour buildings at the old harbour of Reykjavik. It is a short walk from the city centre, near the whale-watching tour departure point.
- What is the atmosphere like?
- The interior is decorated with an ocean and jellyfish theme that manages to be striking rather than tacky. The vibe is relaxed and casual, with a mix of locals and visitors.
- Is MarBar open late?
- Thursday through Saturday the bar stays open until 01:00. On other nights it closes at 23:00.
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