Olstofa Akureyrar

Iceland's beer culture is young -- the country only legalised full-strength beer in 1989 -- but the enthusiasm with which Icelanders have embraced craft brewing has made up for lost time. In Akureyri, the spiritual home of that enthusiasm is Olstofa Akureyrar, a cosy craft beer bar on the Art Street that serves as an unofficial embassy for North Iceland's brewing scene.

The Beer

Olstofa Akureyrar takes its beer seriously without taking itself too seriously. The taps rotate regularly, featuring a mix of Icelandic craft beers and selected international options. Einstok, the brewery based just outside Akureyri that has become one of Iceland's most recognisable beer brands internationally, is typically well-represented -- the bar sometimes functions as an informal tasting lounge for the brewery.

Beyond Einstok, expect to find offerings from other Icelandic breweries, seasonal specials, and the occasional left-field import that catches the bar's attention. The staff know their beer and are happy to guide your choices, which is particularly useful if you are new to the Icelandic craft beer scene.

The Space

Olstofa is small and unapologetically pub-like. Wooden furniture, dim lighting, and the comfortable hum of people enjoying good beer and good conversation. There is nothing flashy about the decor, and that is precisely the point. This is a bar that could exist in any beer-loving city in the world, and it would be popular in any of them.

The Art Street location adds a pleasant cultural dimension. Kaupvangsstræti is lined with small galleries and creative spaces, and the bar fits naturally into this environment -- a place where artists, locals, and visitors mingle over pints.

The Atmosphere

On a quiet Tuesday the bar is a calm, pleasant place for a couple of beers and a conversation. On a Friday night it transforms into the social hub of Akureyri, packed with locals who have made it their regular and visitors who have been directed here by anyone with local knowledge. The energy on weekends is infectious.

Practical Notes

Open from 18:00 daily. Friday and Saturday nights run until 03:00, which in a town this size represents a genuine late night. No food to speak of, so eat first. No reservations -- just arrive and find a spot. The bar is on Kaupvangsstræti, the same street as Grillstofan and Graeni Hatturinn, making it easy to combine a visit with dinner or a show.