Quest Saloon

There are bars in Reykjavik, and there are barbershops in Reykjavik, but only Quest Saloon has the audacity to be both at once. This gloriously eccentric establishment on the far end of Laugavegur combines a working barbershop with a well-stocked bar, art exhibitions, live music, and a reading library, creating something that defies categorisation but somehow makes perfect sense.

The Concept

Quest Saloon is the brainchild of a mind that looked at a barbershop and thought: this would be better with whisky. And, honestly, it is. The front of the house is a proper barber's chair, where skilled hairdressers ply their trade with scissors and clippers. Behind and around it, the space opens into a bar with a serious whisky selection, craft beer taps, and the kind of relaxed atmosphere that makes you want to cancel your evening plans and just stay.

The combination sounds gimmicky. In practice, it is not. The barbering is genuinely good -- these are skilled professionals, not a novelty act. And the bar is genuinely good -- the whisky selection alone justifies a visit, and the craft beer options are well-curated.

The Whisky

The whisky collection is where Quest Saloon really distinguishes itself. The range spans Scottish single malts, Irish pot stills, Japanese expressions, and American bourbons, with enough depth in each category to satisfy enthusiasts. The staff know their whiskies and can navigate you to something you will enjoy, whether you are a seasoned dram-drinker or a curious novice.

The Extras

Art exhibitions rotate on the walls, providing visual interest beyond the bottles. Live music events -- typically acoustic performances suited to the intimate space -- happen regularly. A small library of books about spirits, grooming, and culture invites browsing. Free Wi-Fi is available for those who want to sit and work, though the atmosphere generally favours conversation over laptop screens.

The Location

Laugavegur 178 is at the far eastern end of the street, past Hlemmur, in a neighbourhood that is quieter and more residential than the tourist-heavy western end. The walk from central Laugavegur takes about fifteen minutes, but the journey is part of the discovery.

Practical Notes

Hair services run until 18:00, after which Quest operates purely as a bar. On weekdays the bar closes at 23:00; Friday and Saturday it stays open until 01:00. No reservations needed for drinks. For haircuts, booking ahead is advisable. Cards accepted.