Lively downtown brewpub with crowd-pleasing burgers, tacos, and strong cocktails; great vibe and happy hour, but service consistency and food execution can vary.
Bastard Brew & Food delivers solid neighborhood brewpub performance with exceptional beer and cocktail guidance and appealing downtown location that make it a fun social stop. However, inconsistent food quality—ranging from juicy burgers to dry execution—and occasional service delays during peak hours prevent it from reaching higher standards. It's a worthwhile destination for groups seeking good cocktails and casual fare in a lively atmosphere, though not a must-visit for serious dining.
Set just off Laugavegur, Bastard hums with lively brewpub energy—packed tables, bar chatter, and servers who often steer folks toward local beers and flights. One traveler summed it up: "They walked me through the taps and nailed our choices." Expect a fun, social atmosphere with happy hour crowds and the occasional squeeze between close tables. The cooking leans elevated pub fare—burgers, tacos, and flatbreads—with a few playful twists like cauliflower tacos and a beetroot-patty burger. Cocktails get real love here and are frequently praised as trip highlights, though food execution can swing from juicy and bold to a touch average when busy. It suits groups and casual dates who value a good-time vibe over formality. Families do fine thanks to burgers, chicken tenders, and simple sides. There is a vegetarian beetroot burger and cauliflower tacos, but no clear kids menu mentioned. Portions are generally solid; just note tacos can be small and a bit messy, so bring kid-friendly backups if needed.
Area vibe: Bustling downtown street near Laugavegur with tourists and locals, bar-hopping energy and casual dining.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, heavy foot traffic late into evening; typical downtown nightlife dynamics.
What's nearby: Steps from shops, bars, and hotels; convenient stop during walking tours and nightlife circuits.